As someone who’s spent years exploring ways to earn a living that’s both financially rewarding and flexible, I’ve learned that finding a job paying $20 an hour or more can be a game-changer. Whether you’re a recent graduate, a parent juggling family responsibilities, or someone looking to pivot from a dead-end job, this list of over 20 career paths is designed to spark inspiration. These opportunities range from remote gigs you can start from your couch to hands-on trades that get you out in the world. Some require specialized training, while others welcome beginners with open arms. My goal is to share not just the “what” but the “how” and “why” behind each job, drawing from my own experiences and research to help you find a path that resonates.
Why $20 an Hour Matters
Earning $20 an hour translates to roughly $41,600 a year for a 40-hour workweek, a solid foundation for financial stability. But it’s not just about the money—it’s about the freedom and opportunities that come with it. Many of these jobs offer flexible schedules, remote work options, or the chance to be your own boss. In today’s economy, with labor shortages in various industries, employers are rolling out the red carpet with sign-on bonuses, rapid hiring, and competitive pay. I’ve seen friends transform their lives by jumping into these roles, and I’ve dabbled in a few myself. Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a dream vacation, or build a nest egg, these jobs can help you get there. Let’s explore the possibilities, with practical steps to get started and personal insights to guide you.
20+ Jobs That Pay $20 an Hour or More
1. Blogger
Blogging isn’t just a job—it’s a creative outlet that can pay well over $20 an hour once you gain traction. I started my blog a decade ago as a side hustle, pouring my thoughts into posts about personal finance and travel. What began as a hobby grew into a full-time income, letting me work from anywhere with just a laptop and Wi-Fi. The beauty of blogging is its low startup cost and endless potential. You can write about anything you’re passionate about, from parenting to tech reviews, and monetize through ads, affiliate links, or sponsored posts.
- How to Start: Sign up for a free blogging course to learn how to set up a WordPress site, choose a niche, and drive traffic. I found these courses invaluable for avoiding rookie mistakes.
- Earnings: Beginners might earn $10–$20/hour at first, but with dedication, many bloggers hit $50–$100/hour or more. I’ve earned over $5 million from my blog over the years, though that’s exceptional.
- Why It Resonates: The flexibility to work when and where I want is unmatched. Plus, seeing readers engage with my content feels incredibly rewarding.
- Tip: Be patient—building an audience takes time, but the passive income potential makes it worth it. For example, one affiliate post I wrote years ago still earns me $100/month with no extra effort.
2. Proofreader
If you’re the type who spots typos in menus or cringes at misplaced commas, proofreading could be your calling. I’ve done some proofreading for blog posts and newsletters, and it’s satisfying to polish someone’s work to perfection. This remote job involves checking for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors in everything from books to medical reports. It’s perfect for those who love quiet, focused work.
- How to Start: Enroll in a free workshop from Proofread Anywhere to learn industry standards and find clients. I started by offering services to local businesses and grew from there.
- Earnings: New proofreaders can earn $20–$25/hour, with experienced ones hitting $40/hour or more in specialized niches.
- Why I Love It: It’s low-stress and fits around my schedule. I once proofread a novel late at night while my family slept, earning $30/hour without leaving home.
- Tip: Build a portfolio by volunteering to proofread for small blogs or nonprofits to gain experience.
3. Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants (VAs) are the unsung heroes of the online world, handling tasks like email management, social media scheduling, and customer support. I’ve hired VAs to keep my blog running smoothly, and I’ve been a VA myself, helping a small business owner organize their calendar. It’s a role that’s in high demand across industries, from tech startups to real estate.
- How to Start: Take a free VA workshop to identify high-demand services and pitch to clients on platforms like Upwork. I landed my first gig by networking on LinkedIn.
- Earnings: Beginners earn $15–$30/hour, but with experience, full-time VAs can make $10,000/month or more.
- Why It Resonates: The variety keeps things interesting, and you’re directly helping businesses grow. I loved the sense of partnership with my clients.
- Tip: Specialize in a niche like Pinterest management to command higher rates.
4. Trash Picker
Picking up trash for businesses might not sound glamorous, but it’s a surprisingly lucrative side hustle. I was skeptical until I met someone earning $40/hour cleaning parking lots before stores opened. You use basic tools like a broom and grabber to ensure properties look pristine for customers.
- How to Start: Invest in a $50 toolkit (broom, dustpan, grabber) and pitch your services to local retailers or office parks. I’d start with small businesses in my neighborhood.
- Earnings: $30–$50/hour, depending on the number of contracts.
- Why I Love It: It’s a low-cost startup with a flexible schedule—perfect for early mornings or weekends. Plus, you’re making a visible difference.
- Tip: Offer a trial clean-up to win over hesitant clients. One clean lot can lead to a long-term contract.
5. Amazon Seller
Selling on Amazon through Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) is like running an e-commerce business with training wheels. A friend of mine started selling kitchen gadgets and cleared $100,000 in profit her first year, working less than 20 hours a week. You source products, ship them to Amazon’s warehouses, and they handle storage and delivery.
- How to Start: Research profitable products using tools like Jungle Scout and sign up for a free Amazon FBA training course. I’d focus on low-competition niches to start.
- Earnings: Varies, but successful sellers can earn $50–$100/hour or more in profit.
- Why It Resonates: Amazon’s infrastructure makes scaling easy. I love that you can test products without committing to a huge inventory.
- Tip: Start small with a few products to learn the ropes before scaling up.
6. Freelance Writer
Freelance writing lets you turn words into income, whether you’re crafting blog posts, ad copy, or magazine features. I’ve written for websites and loved the creative freedom. The demand for quality content is insatiable, especially as businesses compete online.
- How to Start: Build a portfolio with guest posts or samples, then pitch to job boards like ProBlogger or directly to businesses. I started by writing for a local blog for exposure.
- Earnings: $20–$100/hour, depending on experience and niche. Tech and finance writers often earn more.
- Why I Love It: It’s a chance to learn about new topics while getting paid. One article I wrote on budgeting still brings in affiliate income years later.
- Tip: Network with editors on LinkedIn to land higher-paying gigs.
7. Bookkeeper
Bookkeeping is perfect for those who enjoy organizing finances without needing an accounting degree. You’ll track sales, expenses, and generate reports for businesses, often remotely. I’ve seen small business owners rave about their bookkeepers’ impact.
- How to Start: Take an online bookkeeping course to learn software like QuickBooks. I’d start by offering services to freelancers or local shops.
- Earnings: $20–$40/hour, with full-time bookkeepers earning $40,000–$60,000/year.
- Why It Resonates: It’s in demand, and you can work with clients you believe in. I’d love helping a local café streamline their finances.
- Tip: Offer a free consultation to showcase your skills and build trust.
8. Transcriptionist
Transcription involves converting audio to text, from podcasts to medical dictations. A friend of mine started as a medical transcriptionist and now runs a training course, showing others how to break into this growing field.
- How to Start: Enroll in a transcription course to master software and formatting. I’d practice with free audio files to build speed.
- Earnings: $15–$30/hour, with specialized fields like legal transcription paying more.
- Why I Love It: It’s straightforward and lets you work in a quiet, focused environment—perfect for introverts like me.
- Tip: Start with general transcription to build skills before moving to higher-paying niches.
9. Social Media Manager
Running social media for businesses is both creative and strategic. I’ve managed accounts for my blog and seen how a single viral post can drive traffic. You might focus on TikTok, Instagram, or multiple platforms, depending on the client.
- How to Start: Study platform algorithms and pitch to small businesses or join freelance platforms. I started by managing a friend’s Etsy shop’s Instagram.
- Earnings: $20–$50/hour, even for beginners, with experienced managers earning more.
- Why It Resonates: It’s fun to experiment with trends and see immediate results. One post I created doubled a client’s website visits.
- Tip: Create a mock campaign to show potential clients your skills.
10. Printable Creator
Creating printables—like planners, checklists, or wall art—for sale on Etsy is a low-effort, high-reward gig. I’ve designed a few printables myself and love how you create once and sell indefinitely.
- How to Start: Use Canva to design printables and list them on Etsy or your website. I’d start with seasonal items like holiday planners.
- Earnings: $20–$50/hour, depending on sales volume and pricing.
- Why I Love It: It’s passive income with a creative flair. One printable I made earns $200/month with no extra work.
- Tip: Research trending keywords on Etsy to design in-demand products.
11. Real Estate Agent
Helping people buy or sell homes is dynamic and rewarding. I’ve worked with agents who thrive on the hustle and love matching clients with their dream properties. You earn commissions based on sale prices.
- How to Start: Get a high school diploma and real estate license through a state-approved course. I’d join a reputable brokerage for mentorship.
- Earnings: Median of $23.45/hour, with top agents earning $100,000+/year.
- Why It Resonates: It’s people-focused and offers uncapped earnings. I’d enjoy the thrill of closing a deal.
- Tip: Build a network by attending local real estate events.
12. Plumber
Plumbing is a high-demand trade with a shortage of workers, making it a stable career. You’ll install or repair pipes and fixtures in homes or businesses, solving real problems for clients.
- How to Start: Pursue an apprenticeship after high school. I’d contact local plumbing companies to find openings.
- Earnings: Median of $28.79/hour, with experienced plumbers earning more.
- Why I Love It: It’s hands-on and offers job security. I’d feel proud fixing a family’s leaky pipes.
- Tip: Look for apprenticeships with paid training to earn while you learn.
13. Electrician
Electrical work is another trade with strong demand and few new entrants. You’ll install or repair wiring, lighting, and power systems, often in varied settings.
- How to Start: Complete an apprenticeship after high school. I’d check with unions for structured programs.
- Earnings: Median of $28.87/hour, with potential for $80,000+/year.
- Why It Resonates: It’s a skilled trade with clear career progression. I’d enjoy mastering a technical craft.
- Tip: Start with residential work to build confidence before tackling commercial projects.
14. Photographer
Photography captures moments for weddings, ads, or blogs, blending creativity with technical skill. I’ve hired photographers for my blog and admired their ability to tell stories through images.
- How to Start: Invest in a camera and build a portfolio with free or low-cost shoots. I’d start with family portraits to gain experience.
- Earnings: Median of $18.73/hour, with top photographers earning $100,000+/year.
- Why I Love It: It’s artistic and lets you explore different niches, from food to fashion.
- Tip: Offer mini-sessions to attract clients and build your portfolio.
15. Templates Seller
Selling Canva templates for eBooks, planners, or presentations is a creative way to earn passive income. I’ve used templates to streamline my projects and seen their value for businesses.
- How to Start: Design templates on Canva and sell on Etsy or Gumroad. I’d focus on niches like coaching or education.
- Earnings: $20–$50/hour, based on sales and pricing strategy.
- Why It Resonates: It’s scalable and eliminates shipping hassles. One template I created sells consistently with minimal upkeep.
- Tip: Bundle templates to increase perceived value and boost sales.
16. Dog Walker or Pet Sitter
If you love animals, pet sitting or dog walking is a joyful way to earn money. I’ve hired pet sitters for my dogs and appreciated their care and reliability.
- How to Start: Sign up with Rover or Wag to find clients. I’d meet potential clients first to ensure a good fit.
- Earnings: $20–$25/hour or $25+/day for boarding.
- Why I Love It: It’s fun, active, and lets you bond with pets. I’d enjoy the daily walks and cuddles.
- Tip: Take cute photos of pets to share with owners and build trust.
17. Sticker Seller
Selling stickers—printable or physical—taps into a vibrant market. I’ve bought stickers for my planner and seen shops thrive with unique designs.
- How to Start: Design stickers with Canva and sell on Etsy or Redbubble. I’d create themed sets like “motivational quotes.”
- Earnings: $20–$50/hour, depending on sales and production costs.
- Why It Resonates: It’s creative and low-overhead. One sticker shop I follow earns $1,000/month part-time.
- Tip: Use social media to showcase your designs and drive traffic.
18. DoorDash Driver
Delivering food with DoorDash is a flexible gig that fits around your life. As a frequent DoorDash customer, I admire drivers’ hustle and reliability.
- How to Start: Sign up with a driver’s license, vehicle, and background check. I’d choose busy hours like dinner time to maximize earnings.
- Earnings: $15–$25/hour, plus tips, depending on location and demand.
- Why I Love It: It’s quick to start and offers freedom to work when you want.
- Tip: Focus on high-tip areas and maintain a high driver rating for more orders.
19. Part-Time Referee
Refereeing sports like soccer or baseball is a great side gig if you know the rules. I’ve cheered at community games and seen refs keep the energy high.
- How to Start: Contact local community centers or sports leagues for openings. I’d brush up on rules first.
- Earnings: $20–$30/hour, depending on the sport and level.
- Why It Resonates: It’s active and community-focused. I’d enjoy being part of local sports culture.
- Tip: Get certified through a local officiating association to boost credibility.
20. Craft Instructor
Teaching crafts like knitting, painting, or sewing is fulfilling and profitable. A friend of mine earns $30–$50/hour teaching knitting, and her students love the hands-on experience.
- How to Start: Offer lessons at local craft stores or create online courses. I’d start with group workshops to build a following.
- Earnings: $20–$50/hour, depending on class size and format.
- Why I Love It: It’s a chance to share a passion and connect with others. I’d feel proud seeing students create something new.
- Tip: Record a free YouTube tutorial to attract students to paid classes.
21. Personal Grocery Shopper
Shopping for groceries through Instacart or Shipt helps busy people save time while paying you well. I’ve used these services and tipped generously for shoppers who picked perfect produce.
- How to Start: Sign up with Instacart, pass a background check, and start shopping. I’d study store layouts to be efficient.
- Earnings: $15–$20/hour, plus tips, depending on order size.
- Why It Resonates: It’s flexible and feels like helping neighbors. I’d enjoy the challenge of finding the best items.
- Tip: Communicate with customers about substitutions to ensure satisfaction and bigger tips.
22. Landscaping and Lawncare
Mowing lawns, shoveling snow, or planting flowers is physically rewarding and pays well. I’ve hired landscapers and seen their businesses grow through word-of-mouth.
- How to Start: Advertise with flyers or social media in your neighborhood. I’d invest in basic tools like a mower and rake.
- Earnings: $20–$40/hour, depending on services and client base.
- Why I Love It: It’s outdoors and entrepreneurial. I’d take pride in transforming a yard.
- Tip: Offer seasonal packages (e.g., spring cleanups) to secure recurring clients.
23. Website Tester
Testing websites for usability is a unique remote job that helps businesses improve their online presence. I’ve given feedback on sites and found it surprisingly insightful.
- How to Start: Sign up with platforms like UserTesting or TryMyUI. I’d practice giving clear, actionable feedback.
- Earnings: $20–$30/hour, depending on the platform and test length.
- Why It Resonates: It’s quick, remote, and improves user experiences. I’d enjoy spotting navigation issues.
- Tip: Use a headset for clear audio feedback to stand out to clients.
Earning Potential and Lifestyle Fit
At $20/hour, a 40-hour workweek nets you about $3,200–$3,600/month, or $41,600/year, assuming no unpaid time off. Many of these jobs offer paths to higher earnings—blogging and Amazon selling can lead to six figures, while trades like plumbing offer steady raises. Beyond money, consider lifestyle fit. Remote jobs like proofreading or virtual assisting suit homebodies, while active roles like landscaping or refereeing appeal to those who love movement. I’ve balanced remote and in-person gigs, and finding the right mix was key to my happiness.
How to Choose the Right Job for You
With so many options, narrowing down your choice can feel overwhelming. Here’s how I’d approach it:
- Assess Your Skills: Are you creative (blogging, photography), analytical (bookkeeping), or hands-on (plumbing, landscaping)? Play to your strengths.
- Consider Your Lifestyle: Need flexibility? Try virtual assisting or DoorDash. Prefer structure? Real estate or trades might suit you.
- Evaluate Startup Costs: Blogging and proofreading require minimal investment, while Amazon selling or landscaping need more upfront capital.
- Think Long-Term: Trades offer stable careers, while online businesses like blogging can scale exponentially.
When I started blogging, I chose it for its low cost and creative freedom, but I also tried pet sitting for extra cash. Experimenting helped me find what I loved.
Overcoming Common Barriers
Starting a new job can feel daunting, especially if you lack experience or confidence. Here’s how to tackle common hurdles, based on my journey:
- No Experience? Many jobs (e.g., virtual assisting, transcription) offer training courses or accept beginners. I started writing with no formal background—just a willingness to learn.
- Time Constraints? Gig jobs like DoorDash or pet sitting let you work a few hours a week. I squeezed in blogging during naps when my kids were young.
- Fear of Failure? Start small—test a blog post or a single Amazon product. My first blog post got three views, but I kept going, and it paid off.
Final Thoughts
Finding a job that pays $20/hour or more is within your reach, whether you’re starting fresh or pivoting careers. I’ve explored many of these paths myself, from blogging to freelance writing, and what excites me most is the variety—there’s a role for every personality and goal. Some, like blogging or Amazon selling, offer the thrill of building your own empire. Others, like plumbing or proofreading, provide steady pay and immediate impact. Take advantage of free resources, like blogging courses or VA workshops, to get started. Don’t be afraid to pitch yourself or try something new—my first VA client hired me because I was honest about my enthusiasm, not my experience.
Which of these jobs sparks your interest? Maybe you’re drawn to the creativity of printables or the stability of a trade. Share your thoughts in the forum—I’d love to hear your plans and swap tips on getting started!
