Side hustle ideas in Minneapolis, MN

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

1. 🚲

   1. Bike tune-ups

   Mobile bike tune-ups and flat fixes at people's homes.

   Start: $150–400 (tools)Charge: $50–90 a tune-up

   First step: Offer $30 tune-ups on your street for the first month to get reviews.

2. 📸

   2. 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.

3. ❄️

   3. 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.

4. ✏️

   4. Tutoring

   Math, test prep or a subject you're strong in, in person or online.

   Start: $0Charge: $25–60 an hour

   First step: Tell 3 parents you know and post in a local parents group.

5. 🎄

   5. 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.

6. 📦

   6. 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.

7. 🎒

   7. 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.

8. 🎸

   8. Music lessons

   Beginner guitar, piano or drums, in person or online.

   Start: $0Charge: $30–60 a lesson

   First step: Post in a local parents group offering a first lesson free.

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