9 Side Hustles For Nurses in 2024 [100k/yr]
Last Updated on August 11, 2024 by John Cirelly
As a nurse, you’ve got incredible skills, expertise, and a heart for helping others – but did you know that you can put those qualities to use outside your day job too?
In this article, I’ll share some of the best side hustles for nurses, covering everything from writing and coaching to caregiving and beyond.
1. Take Medical Surveys on Sermo
Sermo allows nurses to earn extra income by participating in medical surveys. These surveys gather opinions on healthcare topics, treatments, and products. It’s an easy side hustle that can be done from anywhere, anytime.
Getting Started
To begin, sign up for an account on Sermo and complete your profile with your professional details. Once registered, you’ll receive survey invitations based on your qualifications and specialties. Opportunities are available directly on the Sermo platform after logging in.
What You’ll Earn
Nurses can earn anywhere from $2 to $10 per survey, depending on the length and complexity. Payments are usually issued through PayPal or as gift cards. It typically takes a few days to receive payment after completing a survey.
2. Up Remote Telehealth Shifts on Wheel
Wheel offers a flexible way for nurses to earn extra income by working telehealth shifts. You can take shifts from home, providing remote care to patients via phone or video calls. It’s a great option for nurses looking for part-time work that fits into their schedules.
Getting Started
To get started, sign up on Wheel’s platform, create a profile, and submit your credentials. They will verify your license and match you with opportunities based on your experience. You can find more information and apply directly on Wheel’s website.
What You’ll Earn
Nurses can typically earn between $30 to $50 per hour, depending on experience and shift availability. Payments are usually made bi-weekly through direct deposit. It often takes about two weeks to receive your first payment after completing shifts.
3. Pick Up Per Diem Shifts on NurseDash
NurseDash provides nurses with the opportunity to pick up per diem shifts at various healthcare facilities. This allows you to work when you want, fitting shifts into your schedule as needed. It’s an excellent side hustle for nurses who want flexibility in their work hours.
Getting Started
To get started, create a profile on the NurseDash app and submit your nursing credentials. After your profile is approved, you can browse available shifts in your area and sign up for those that match your schedule. You can download the NurseDash app to find and apply for shifts directly.
What You’ll Earn
Nurses can earn between $25 to $40 per hour, depending on the facility and location. Payments are typically made weekly via direct deposit. After completing your first shift, it usually takes a week to receive your initial payment.
4. Freelance as a Medical Writer
Freelancing as a medical writer allows nurses to use their expertise to create content for healthcare publications, websites, and companies. This side hustle offers the flexibility to work from home and set your own hours. It’s ideal for nurses who enjoy writing and want to share their knowledge.
Getting Started
To get started, create a portfolio of writing samples related to healthcare or nursing. You can find freelance opportunities on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or directly through healthcare companies’ websites. Networking with professionals in the field can also lead to potential writing gigs.
What You’ll Earn
Medical writers can earn anywhere from $0.10 to $1 per word, depending on the project and complexity. Payments are typically made per project through platforms like PayPal or direct deposit. The payment timeline varies, but most clients pay within 30 days of submission.
5. Offer Standardized Nursing Test Tutoring
Tutoring for standardized nursing tests, like the NCLEX, allows nurses to help others succeed in their exams while earning extra income. You can offer one-on-one sessions or group tutoring online or in person. This side hustle is great for nurses who enjoy teaching and mentoring.
Getting Started
To get started, decide which tests you want to tutor for and brush up on the content. Create a profile on tutoring platforms like Wyzant or advertise your services on social media and nursing forums. You can also reach out to local nursing schools to offer your tutoring services to students.
What You’ll Earn
Tutors typically earn between $25 to $60 per hour, depending on their experience and the demand for the test. Payments are often made directly through the tutoring platform or arranged with the student. Most tutors receive payment immediately after each session or within a week.
6. Sign Up To Be an Expert Witness
Serving as an expert witness allows nurses to use their clinical expertise in legal cases. You’ll review medical records, provide opinions, and sometimes testify in court. This side hustle is ideal for experienced nurses who want to contribute to the legal process.
Getting Started
To get started, you’ll need to have significant experience in a specific nursing specialty. Join expert witness networks like SEAK, Inc., or reach out to attorneys who specialize in medical malpractice cases. Having a detailed resume and references can help you land your first case.
What You’ll Earn
Expert witnesses can earn between $150 to $300 per hour for case review and testimony, with higher rates for court appearances. Payments are usually made by the attorney handling the case. It can take a few weeks to a few months to receive payment, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
7. Freelance as a Subject Matter Expert
Freelancing as a subject matter expert allows nurses to offer their specialized knowledge to various industries, including education, media, and product development. This side hustle can involve reviewing content, consulting, or contributing to projects. It’s a flexible way to leverage your expertise outside of traditional nursing roles.
Getting Started
To begin, identify your areas of expertise and create a profile on freelance platforms like Upwork or LinkedIn. You can also reach out directly to companies that might need your knowledge for their projects. Networking with professionals in related fields can help you find opportunities.
What You’ll Earn
Subject matter experts typically earn between $50 to $150 per hour, depending on the industry and the complexity of the work. Payments are generally made through freelance platforms or directly by the client. Most payments are processed within a week to a month after completing the project.
8. Start a Nursing YouTube Channel
Starting a nursing YouTube channel allows nurses to share their knowledge, tips, and experiences through video content. It’s a flexible side hustle where you can reach a large audience and build a community. Creating engaging and informative videos can also enhance your professional profile.
Getting Started
To get started, decide on the type of content you want to create, such as tutorials, vlogs, or advice videos. You’ll need a camera or smartphone with good video quality and basic video editing software. Set up a YouTube account, optimize your channel with a professional look, and start uploading content regularly.
What You’ll Earn
Earnings from a YouTube channel can vary, with many creators earning between $1 to $5 per 1,000 views from ad revenue. Additional income can come from sponsorships and affiliate marketing as your channel grows. You typically receive payments monthly through YouTube’s payment system once you reach the minimum payout threshold.
Nurse Bass has gathered over 79,000 subscribers on his nursing channel. Below he explains why you should consider starting a channel if you need any more convincing. 😉
9. Start a Nursing Podcast
Starting a nursing podcast allows nurses to share their insights, experiences, and advice with a broader audience. It’s a great side hustle that can build your brand and connect you with others in the nursing community. Podcasting offers flexibility in content creation and scheduling.
Getting Started
To get started, choose a niche or topic that resonates with your nursing experience and audience. Invest in basic podcasting equipment like a microphone and editing software. Podcast kits make it easy to get everything you need at once. You can publish your podcast on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Anchor to reach a wide audience.
What You’ll Earn
Earnings from a podcast can vary widely, from $10 to $50 per episode through sponsorships or ads, depending on your audience size. Monetization usually begins once you’ve built a consistent listener base. Payments are typically processed monthly through the podcast platform.
