Side hustle ideas in Colorado Springs, CO

Colorado Springs has a large military community, outdoor lovers everywhere and snowy winters. That's where the paying work is. Here are side hustles that fit Colorado Springs, with what they cost to start, what people usually charge, and how to land your first customer this week.

1. 🚛

   1. Junk removal and hauling

   Haul away old furniture, yard waste and garage junk with a truck.

   Start: Use your truck; dump feesCharge: $100–350 a load

   First step: Post in the neighborhood group with a photo of your truck and a flat price.

2. 🍳

   2. Meal prep for busy families

   Weekly prepped meals picked up or delivered. Check your state's cottage food rules first.

   Start: $100–300Charge: $80–150 a week per family

   First step: Cook a week for one family you know and ask for a testimonial.

3. 📸

   3. Portrait and event photography

   Senior photos, family shoots, graduations and small events.

   Start: $300–1,000 (camera)Charge: $100–300 a session

   First step: Do 3 free shoots to build a portfolio, then post them.

4. 🎄

   4. Holiday light installs

   Hang and take down holiday lights for people who don't want to get on a ladder.

   Start: $150–400Charge: $200–600 a house

   First step: Post photos of one house you did in the neighborhood Facebook group in early November.

5. 🔑

   5. Errands and house sitting

   Groceries, pickups, plant watering and house checks for busy people and travelers.

   Start: $0Charge: $20–35 an hour

   First step: Tell neighbors and coworkers of your parents that you're starting.

6. 🎒

   6. Outdoor gear rental and delivery

   Rent out camping, ski or paddle gear, dropped off and picked up.

   Start: $300–1,500Charge: $25–80 a day per kit

   First step: Start with gear you already own and list it on a gear-rental site.

7. 📦

   7. Moving help

   Loading, unloading and small moves, busiest at the start and end of college terms.

   Start: $0–200 (dolly, straps)Charge: $30–50 an hour per person

   First step: List yourself on TaskRabbit and post on campus boards before move-in week.

8. ❄️

   8. Snow shoveling route

   Driveways and walks for busy families and older homeowners, paid per storm or for the season.

   Start: $50–150Charge: $30–60 a driveway, or a season plan

   First step: Knock on 20 doors on one street before the first big storm and sign up a route.

Prices are typical US ranges. What people pay in Colorado Springs can be higher or lower, so check a few local listings before you set yours.