9 Automated Side Hustles To Earn On Autopilot (2024)

Look to build something that makes money on autopilot? Below are my nine favorite automated side hustles that run automatically once they’re set up.

Start an Automated YouTube Channel

An automated YouTube channel operates by employing AI tools such as InVideo for scriptwriting, utilizing a library of high-quality stock videos, and ElevenLabs for generating realistic voiceovers.

The process is automated by these AI solutions: InVideo crafts the script and compiles video content, while ElevenLabs provides a human-like voice, removing the need for personal filming or voice recording.

Getting Started

To kick off your automated YouTube journey, first sign up for InVideo and ElevenLabs. Experiment with InVideo’s features to understand how it crafts scripts and integrates stock footage.

Then, use ElevenLabs to give your videos a natural-sounding voice. Focus on a niche you’re passionate about, as this will guide the AI in generating relevant content.

What You’ll Earn

Earnings from an automated YouTube channel vary widely. New channels might earn a few dollars per month, but as your channel grows and garners more views, it could earn between $500 to $5,000 monthly.

Ad revenue is the primary source of income, but affiliate links and sponsorships can significantly boost your earnings once you have a solid viewer base.

Leverage Drop Servicing on Fivver or Upwork

Drop servicing on Fiverr or Upwork works by offering services like design or writing, then outsourcing these tasks to freelancers. You manage client relationships and ensure quality, while freelancers do the actual work.

Automation comes into play with tools for streamlined project management and client communication, allowing you to handle multiple projects efficiently. Additionally, automated systems can assist in finding and coordinating with freelancers, making the process smoother.

Getting Started

To start drop servicing on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork, your first step is to identify services in high demand but which you can outsource efficiently. This could range from graphic design to copywriting. Once you’ve chosen your niche, create service listings on these platforms, clearly detailing what clients can expect.

The key to success is finding reliable freelancers to deliver quality work, maintaining a margin between what you charge your clients and what you pay your freelancers.

What You’ll Earn

With drop servicing, earnings can vary based on your niche and the number of clients you secure. Generally, for starters, you might earn around $200 to $500 per project, depending on the service complexity.

As you establish a portfolio and build client trust, potential earnings can soar to $2,000-$5,000 per month. Remember, your profit depends on the difference between what you charge clients and what you pay your freelancers.

Start an Automated AI-Powered Blog

An AI-powered blog operates by using AI to generate content, from blog posts to updates. You choose topics or keywords, and the AI creates relevant, engaging articles.

This process is automated through AI writing tools, which analyze existing content on the web to produce original, SEO-friendly posts. Plus, some tools even help in scheduling and posting the content, making your blog run almost on its own.

Getting Started

Begin your AI-powered blog by choosing a blogging platform and setting up your site. Next, pick an AI writing tool suited to your needs, considering factors like content quality and customization options.

Focus on a specific niche or topic that interests you; this helps the AI generate more targeted content. Remember, even with AI assistance, you’ll need to review and tweak the content to ensure it aligns with your blog’s voice and goals.

What You’ll Earn

Earning from an AI-powered blog can start small, often just a few dollars a month through ads or affiliate marketing. As your blog grows in readership, these earnings can increase significantly.

Experienced bloggers in popular niches can earn between $1,000 to $10,000 monthly. Your income will primarily depend on your blog’s traffic, niche marketability, and monetization strategies like sponsored posts, ads, and affiliate links.

Start an Etsy Printables Store

Starting an Etsy Printables store involves creating digital designs like planners, art prints, or templates that customers can download and print. You design the products once and list them on Etsy, allowing an unlimited number of customers to purchase and print them.

This is automated in the sense that once your designs are uploaded, the selling process requires minimal intervention. Customers can make a purchase and receive their digital product instantly, without any additional action from your side.

Getting Started

To get started with your Etsy Printables store, first create an Etsy seller account and familiarize yourself with the platform. Next, design a range of digital products that appeal to your target audience. Use design software like Adobe Illustrator or Canva for this purpose.

Focus on creating unique, high-quality designs and write clear, compelling product descriptions. Remember, marketing and regular updates to your product line are key to attracting and retaining customers.

What You’ll Earn

In an Etsy Printables business, your earnings largely depend on the popularity and pricing of your designs. Starting out, you might earn around $50 to $300 per month.

As your store gains more visibility and you expand your product range, monthly earnings can grow to $1,000 or more. Successful Etsy printables shops can eventually make several thousand dollars a month, especially with seasonal or high-demand items.

Start a Print on Demand Store

Starting a Print on Demand store involves creating designs and offering them on products like apparel or mugs. When a customer makes a purchase, the item is printed and shipped by a supplier.

Automation occurs once your designs are uploaded. From that point onward, everything, including printing and shipping, is seamlessly managed by your supplier. This setup means you don’t have to worry about inventory or fulfillment.

Getting Started

Begin by choosing a Print on Demand service and create appealing designs. Upload these to various products they offer.

You can set up an online store using platforms like Shopify or integrate with marketplaces like Etsy. Effective marketing and a unique design approach are key to attracting and retaining customers.

What You’ll Earn

Initially, your earnings might range from $100 to $300 per month. As your store gains traction and you expand your product range, potential earnings can grow.

Successful store owners can make between $1,000 and $5,000 per month, depending on their designs’ popularity and marketing efforts.

Open an Airbnb Property

Opening an Airbnb property involves listing a space on Airbnb for short-term rentals. You provide a furnished place where travelers can stay.

The automation aspect can be achieved by using smart technology for self-check-in and coordinating cleaning and maintenance services through online platforms.

Getting Started

To start, assess your property or room’s suitability for guests. Create an attractive and detailed listing on Airbnb, with high-quality photos and clear descriptions.

Implement smart locks or key boxes for easy self-check-in. Consider using a property management service or cleaning service to streamline operations.

What You’ll Earn

Earnings depend on your location, property type, and occupancy rate. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in a city might earn $50 to $100 per night.

Assuming 15 nights booked per month, that’s $750 to $1,500 monthly. In popular tourist destinations or with premium properties, you could earn significantly more.

Create Content for Social Media

Creating content for social media involves producing engaging posts, videos, or images that resonate with your audience. It’s about understanding what captivates your followers and delivering it consistently.

Automation comes in with scheduling tools and software that allows you to plan and post content automatically, saving time and maintaining a steady presence online.

Getting Started

Begin by choosing your platform based on where your target audience spends their time. Understand the type of content that works best on that platform and start creating.

Use tools like Buffer or Hootsuite to schedule your posts. Interacting consistently with your audience is key to building a following.

What You’ll Earn

Earnings in social media content creation vary widely. With brand deals, affiliate marketing, and ads, you might start earning $100 to $500 per month.

As your following grows, so does your earning potential. Influencers with large followings can make thousands per post, but this level of success requires time and consistent, high-quality content.

Build an Automated E-commerce Store

Building an automated e-commerce store means setting up an online platform where customers can browse and purchase products.

The key is integrating tools for inventory management, order processing, and shipping that automate these processes. This setup allows for efficient operation with minimal manual intervention.

Getting Started

Start by selecting an e-commerce platform like Shopify or WooCommerce. Choose a niche market and source products, either by dropshipping or bulk purchasing.

Implement automation tools for tasks like email marketing, cart abandonment recovery, and customer service. Focus on creating a user-friendly website and effective marketing strategies.

What You’ll Earn

Earnings from an automated e-commerce store can start modestly but grow over time. Initially, you might earn around $500 to $2,000 per month.

With effective marketing, a well-chosen niche, and efficient automation, some store owners can eventually earn $5,000 to $20,000 monthly, depending on various factors like product type, market trends, and customer loyalty.

Sell Digital Products and Courses

Selling digital products and courses involves creating valuable digital content, like e-books, software, or online courses, and selling them on platforms or your website.

The automation part comes from the fact that once created, these products can be sold repeatedly without additional production costs, using automated systems for payment and delivery.

Getting Started

First, identify your area of expertise or interest to create your digital products or courses. Use platforms like Teachable or Udemy for courses, or set up a website for diverse digital products.

Focus on creating high-quality, informative content. Automate sales with systems that handle transactions and deliver products to buyers seamlessly.

What You’ll Earn

The earnings vary widely in this field. For instance, you might price a course at $100 and sell 50 in a month, making $5,000. Profits can be significant since there are minimal ongoing costs.

Over time, as you add more products and build a customer base, you could potentially earn $10,000 to $50,000 per month, depending on the demand and quality of your content.

My Final Thoughts

Embarking on an online business journey opens up a world of possibilities, each with its unique potential and approach.

Whether it’s creating an automated YouTube channel, running an AI-powered blog, or building an automated e-commerce store – each path offers a blend of creativity, innovation, and financial opportunity.

Remember, success in these ventures hinges on starting with clear, actionable steps and consistently adapting to market needs and technological advancements.

With dedication and smart strategies, these online business models can become fruitful sources of income and personal fulfillment.