The world of side hustles and gig economy platforms is constantly evolving, with new opportunities emerging all the time. As we enter 2026, there are a few lesser-known but highly profitable side hustle apps that are starting to gain traction. Although these apps may not have the same widespread recognition as others, they offer great potential to boost your income in flexible and creative ways. As someone who has explored various side gigs, I’m excited to share with you 9 hidden gems that could be the perfect fit for anyone looking to earn more this year.
1. UserTesting: Get Paid to Give Feedback
UserTesting is a site where you can make money by testing websites and apps. This may not seem like a big deal, but it is very important in the digital world, as it allows companies to enhance user experiences and understand where their interfaces are causing pain. This is how it works:
To start using UserTesting, you will have to sign up and fill in a brief profile. The platform will then pair you with tests that are related to your interests, skills, and demographic data.
Task Completion: After matching, you will be required to complete tasks that may include navigating a site, using an app, or answering questions based on your experience. The tests may last between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on the complexity.
Making Money: You can make between 10 and 100 dollars per test. The amount varies according to the length and difficulty of the test. Also, UserTesting provides incentives to complete more complicated tasks or to leave more detailed feedback.
Flexibility: The flexibility of UserTesting is one of the best things about it. You will be able to decide when and how frequently you want to take tests, which makes it an ideal side hustle that will not affect your main employment.
2. Steady: Freelance Your Skills on Demand
Steady is a site that links freelancers with companies that need short-term work. Steady also differs in that it does not offer large projects, but instead offers smaller, more manageable gigs, which can be perfect for those who are new to freelancing and do not want to commit to a large project.
These are the features that make Steady unique:
Various Opportunities: Steady offers a variety of opportunities to graphic designers, writers, programmers, and marketers alike. This variety implies that you can get a job that suits your abilities and interests.
Flexible Work Hours: Steady projects are usually short-term, lasting a few hours to a couple of days. This flexibility enables you to select and choose projects that fit into your schedule, and you can easily balance your side hustle with other things.
Competitive Rates:Steady has both independent contractors and small businesses as clients, which means that the rates offered can be competitive. Moreover, you can negotiate with clients and set your own terms and rates.
Community Support: Steady also provides resources and support to freelancers, such as how to build your portfolio, network, and manage client relationships. This social element can be very useful to those new to freelancing.
3. Rover: Pet Sitting and Dog Walking Made Easy
Rover is a site that links pet owners with professional pet sitters and dog walkers. If you are an animal lover and have some time to spare, then this is the side hustle that you need.
Here is why Rover is different:
Passion Meets Profit: Rover can help you turn your passion into profit, especially when you have a natural affinity to pets. The platform connects you with local pet owners seeking quality care of their pets.
Flexible Scheduling: The flexible scheduling is one of the greatest attractions of Rover. You can decide how many shifts you want to work, and when, so it is easy to fit around your other commitments.
Rover offers extensive training and support to its sitters and walkers. This involves safety instructions, insurance, and a network of other knowledgeable caregivers. They even have a background check service to give you extra peace of mind.
Potential Earnings: You can earn between 15 and 40 dollars per hour depending on the location and type of services that you are offering. Having regular customers and good feedback, the possibility to earn more is high.
4.TaskRabbit: The On-Demand Labor Marketplace
TaskRabbit is one of the most flexible platforms that allow freelancers to perform a variety of tasks. TaskRabbit was founded in 2008 and has grown to be a full-service marketplace of skilled labor. Services that can be provided by the users include handyman work, dog walking, moving assistance and even personal shopping.
Here is why TaskRabbit is worth a look:
1. Various Opportunities: TaskRabbit offers a variety of services to suit all abilities and interests. Whether you are a professional handyman or you simply want to assist someone with a move, there is something that you can do.
2. Flexible Scheduling: The flexibility of TaskRabbit is one of the main benefits. It allows you to work at your own time and place, which is ideal to those with unusual schedules or students who have to juggle school and part-time employment.
3. Competitive Earnings: Although the wages depend on the task and the level of your experience, many TaskRabbit workers get more than 20 dollars per hour. More technical jobs like furniture assembly or home repairs can be charged at higher rates
4. Client Reviews and Ratings: TaskRabbit is very much focused on transparency and accountability. Both clients and service providers post reviews and ratings, which can have a significant effect on your future bookings and earning potential.
The process is to create a profile with your skills and availability. View the available tasks and bid on the ones that fit your expertise and schedule. Keeping your profile current and participating in the community regularly can also make you more visible and get more clients.
5.Field Agent: The mobile data collection platform
Field Agent is an innovative tool that uses mobile technology to collect data and conduct market research. The application allows individuals to become agents who complete various tasks, such as visiting stores, taking photos, or collecting information about products and services.
These are the reasons why Field Agent is a great option:
1. Variety of Tasks: Field Agent has a wide range of tasks that can be completed including mystery shopping, price verification and more. You can either be a fan of retail settings or outdoor activities, but there is something to everyone.
2. Good Earning Potential: Agents can earn as much as $10 to 100 per task, depending on the complexity and the duration of the assignment. Certain high-demand jobs, especially those that require detailed reporting or a lot of travel, may be even more lucrative.
3. Easy Access: Field Agent allows you to do the tasks at any time and place, as long as you have a smartphone and access to the internet. This is what makes it perfect to individuals seeking a side hustle that is flexible and does not need a fixed location.
4. Training and Support: Field Agent offers in-depth training materials and support to make sure that new agents know what is required and expected of each task. This will assist you in doing a better job and stand a better chance of getting positive feedback and repeat bookings.
To become a Field Agent, you have to download the app and create an account. Take the first training modules and then view the available tasks. Select the tasks that fit your place and interests and start earning and contributing valuable data to businesses and researchers.
6.Foap: The Photo-Sharing Marketplace
Foap is an interesting opportunity to make money out of photography hobby. This site links independent photographers with companies and individuals that require quality photographs.
This is how Foap works and why it is a great option:
1. Sell Your Photos: Upload your best photos to the marketplace of Foap and set your own prices. Businesses and individuals are able to go through your portfolio and buy rights to use your images in a variety of ways.
2. Commission-Free Model: Foap is a commission-free model as compared to many stock photo websites that charge a commission. This implies that you retain 100 percent of the money that you make through sales, maximizing your profitability.
3. Global Reach: When you join Foap you have access to a worldwide market of buyers. This raises the chances of attracting customers who are interested in your particular style or niche, be it landscape photography, street art, or wildlife shots.
4. Networking Opportunities: Foap can also be used as a networking tool, where you can meet other photographers and prospective clients. Community involvement can result in partnerships, referrals, and long-term relationships.
To begin earning on Foap, create a professional profile with your best work. Post new photos frequently and communicate with the community to build your reputation and visibility. Entering competitions and contests can also make you more recognized and have more buyers.
7. Gigwalk
Definition:
Gigwalk is a mobile app that connects brands and businesses with people who can complete short tasks in their area — known as “gigs.”
Think of it like getting paid to run errands for companies: check a store display, verify if a product is on the shelf, test how clean a location is, or take photos of a business’s signage.
Tasks typically pay between $3 to $50 depending on the complexity, and most take less than 30 minutes to complete. You only need a smartphone and a PayPal account to get started.
Once you register and link your account, you can:
- Browse gigs on a map
- Accept any task in your area
- Follow the instructions (take a photo, answer a few questions, etc.)
- Submit your work through the app
- Get paid after review (usually within a few days)
Gigwalk works best if you live in or near a city with plenty of commercial activity — but rural areas also offer gigs occasionally.
Pro tip:
Businesses rate your performance. Completing gigs on time with accurate submissions improves your profile, helping you unlock higher-paying tasks over time.
8. Poshmark
Definition:
Poshmark is a resale app where you can earn money by selling fashion, accessories, and home decor — both secondhand and brand-new.
It’s built for everyday sellers. Whether you’re decluttering your closet or flipping thrifted finds, Poshmark makes it easy to list, sell, and ship items from home.
The process is simple:
Take photos of your item, write a clear description, choose a price, and list it on the app.
Once someone buys, Poshmark sends you a prepaid shipping label — so you just pack it and drop it off.
Sellers typically make between $10 and $100 per item, depending on what you’re listing. Designer items, limited edition drops, and trending styles often sell for much more.
Categories that do well:
- Name-brand clothes in good condition
- Shoes (especially sneakers, boots, or heels)
- Handbags and accessories
- Home decor and beauty products (unopened)
Poshmark takes a flat $2.95 fee for sales under $15 and 20% for anything above that.
Pro tip:
Use natural lighting and clean backgrounds for your product photos.
Add multiple photos (front, back, tags, any flaws) and use hashtags to boost visibility.
Consistency helps — the more you list, the more the algorithm shows your store to buyers.
9. Instacart
Definition:
Instacart is a grocery delivery and pickup service that hires shoppers to shop for and deliver groceries to customers. As an Instacart shopper, you receive orders through the app, pick the items at local stores, and either deliver them or prepare them for curbside pickup.
The pay depends on the size of the order, the distance traveled, and tips. Typically, shoppers earn between $10 and $25 per hour, with busy times offering even more opportunities.
What you need:
- A reliable vehicle
- A smartphone
- Ability to shop efficiently and accurately
Instacart offers flexibility — you can choose your hours and work as much or as little as you want. It’s a good fit if you like being active, enjoy grocery shopping, and want to earn money on your schedule.
Pro tip:
Accept orders quickly to get the best gigs. Communicate with customers if items are unavailable to keep ratings high. The better your rating, the more chances you have for high-paying orders.
If you’re looking for flexible side hustles that pay well and fit into your lifestyle, these apps offer a variety of options—from testing websites to delivering groceries.
Each app has its own way to help you earn, whether you prefer working from home, getting out in your community, or using a specific skill.
The key is to find the one that matches your strengths and schedule, then commit to it consistently.
Start exploring these apps today, and you might be surprised how quickly side income can add up—without disrupting your main job or daily routine.
Remember, steady effort beats occasional bursts, so keep at it and watch your earnings grow in 2026.