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If you dream about spending your days creating beautiful looks with your favorite beauty products, then becoming a professional makeup artist may be a good career to pursue.

But just how much money does a makeup artist make? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a makeup artist is $68,590.

Keep reading for more insight into makeup artist earnings, how salaries vary by state, and what this job entails.

What Is a Makeup Artist?

A makeup artist is a skilled professional responsible for applying cosmetics and beautifying an individual’s appearance for various purposes. They use their expertise to enhance facial features, create desired looks, and achieve specific artistic visions. Makeup artists work across various industries, including fashion, film, television, theater, special effects, weddings, and events. In addition to traditional makeup applications, some makeup artists specialize in special effects makeup, enabling them to create realistic wounds or fantastical characters for films or theater productions.

Personality plays a big role in whether or not someone will enjoy being a makeup artist. Being a makeup artist can be a suitable job for introverts, as it allows them to work in a more controlled and focused environment with clients one on one. However, working in certain settings, such as movie sets or high-profile events, may be a better fit for extroverts.

Recommended: 10 Entry-level Jobs with Little Human Interaction

How Much Is a Makeup Artist’s Starting Salary?

How much does a professional makeup artist make when they first begin their career? Like anyone embarking on a new career path, makeup artists tend to earn less when they’re just starting out. According to the latest BLS data, the lowest 10 percent of earners in the makeup artist field earn a median salary of $21,540. However, as artists gain more experience and exposure, they have the potential to earn much more than that entry-level salary.

One way to help make the most of your income to track your spending. An online budget planner lets you keep tabs on where your money is coming and going.

What Is the Average Salary for a Makeup Artist?

Makeup artistry is a type of trade job that has the potential to earn a lot of money. Let’s take a closer look at the average salary for a makeup artist.

•   ow much does a makeup artist make a year? The median annual salary for a makeup artist is $68,590.

•   How much does a makeup artist make per hour? When it comes to hourly pay, makeup artists earn a median of $32.97

Where someone lives can play a major role in how much they earn as a makeup artist. Because the cost of living varies so much by state, salaries can vary a lot, too. While the BLS has limited data collected on how much makeup artists earn in different states, the information it does have makes it clear how much salaries can vary.

For example, in Illinois, the median annual salary for a makeup artist is $35,370, whereas in New York it is $111,970. Alongside cost of living factors, there may be more job opportunities for makeup artists in some states. New York City is a major fashion and entertainment hub that likely has a high demand for makeup artists, which can lead to more competitive pay rates.

Median Makeup Artist Salary by State for 2023
State	Median Annual Salary
California	$99,520
District of Columbia	$115,320
Florida	$46,060
Illinois	$35,370
Nevada	$30,760
New York	$111,970
Oklahoma	$66,900
Utah	$68,260
Source: BLS

Recommended: The Highest Paying Jobs in Every State

Makeup Artist Benefits & Job Considerations

While makeup artists have the potential to earn a six-figure salary, the biggest downside of this job is that it is not common to earn benefits like health insurance or to have access to a 401(k). This is because most makeup artists are self-employed and are responsible for securing and paying for any traditional employee benefits they desire.

Pros and Cons of Makeup Artist Salary

Like all jobs, working as a makeup artist comes with a unique set of pros and cons to consider before pursuing this career path.

Pros

•   Creative opportunities: Makeup artists have the freedom to express their creativity by creating unique looks for their clients, whether it’s for a photo shoot, movie, or special event.

•   Interesting workdays: The profession offers a diverse range of opportunities, from working on movie sets to collaborating with cosmetic retailers.

•   No formal education required: Unlike many other careers, becoming a makeup artist doesn’t demand a college degree.

Cons

•   Restricted earning potential: The industry’s salary standards may limit the earning potential of makeup artists, with only a few able to negotiate higher pay. What’s more, self-employed artists may not always receive consistent income or benefits.

•   Geographic limitations: Makeup artists may need to relocate to major cities like Los Angeles, New York, or Chicago to find steady work, and they may also have to travel with clients for various projects.

•   Irregular work schedule: Makeup artists often have to adapt to erratic work hours, including weekends, holidays, and long periods of uncertainty between gigs. Maintaining a stable work-life balance could be a challenge.

The Takeaway

Makeup artistry can be a rewarding career — and potentially lucrative. How much money does a makeup artist make a year? The median annual salary for a makeup artist is $68,590. While the work can be creative and glamorous, it also lacks a traditional work schedule. Plus, most makeup artists have to foot the bill for their own employee benefits. Those considering a career in this industry need to carefully consider if the advantages of this role outweigh the disadvantages.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

Can you make good money doing makeup?

If someone is asking, how much does a makeup artist make in a year, they’ll probably like the answer. The median annual salary for a makeup artist is $68,590, so yes, it is possible to make good money doing makeup. However, some states, like New York and California, have much more lucrative job opportunities than other states.

Can you make six figures as a makeup artist?

Yes, it is possible to make six figures as a makeup artist. The median annual salary for makeup artists nationwide is $68,590, according to the latest BLS data. However, where they live plays a major role in how likely they are to earn a $100,000 salary as a makeup artist.

How much profit does a makeup artist get?

The profit a makeup artist receives varies greatly depending on their employment status and the specific makeup services they offer. Self-employed makeup artists have the potential to earn the full profit after deducting operating costs, while those working for cosmetic retailers or salons may receive a fixed salary or commission-based earnings. Factors such as location, experience, clientele, and demand for their services can also impact overall profit.

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About the author

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Photo credit: iStock/anatoliy_gleb

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Even if you haven’t thought about diesel mechanics before, chances are you’ve benefited from their expertise. These skilled technicians fix the machines that harvest our food, the generators that provide electricity when the power goes out, the big rigs that ferry our goods across the country, and so much more.

Being a diesel mechanic requires a certain skill set and level of training. Generally speaking, they tend to earn slightly more than auto mechanics. According to the latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for a diesel mechanic is $59,920 per year, or $28.81 per hour. (By comparison, the median pay for an auto mechanic is $51,940 per year, or $24.97 per hour.) However, pay rates can vary depending on where a technician works and their level of experience.

What Is the Starting Salary for a Diesel Mechanic?

If you’re just starting out as a diesel mechanic, you probably won’t earn the median salary of $59,920. According to the BLS, 10 percent of workers — most likely those new to the field — earn closer to $39,020, or $18.76 per hour. In some states, this rate is only a few dollars more than minimum wage.

Whether you’re paid a set weekly salary or hourly rate, starting out as an entry-level diesel mechanic can be challenging. The wages may be difficult to live on, especially if you have a lot of financial obligations or live in a place with a higher cost of living.

But if working with machinery and, in particular, on diesel engines is what you really want to do, it can be worth any initial sacrifices. And the good news is, diesel mechanic jobs are expected to continue to grow. So in time, you can move up the ladder or seek out a new job to increase your yearly salary.
In the meantime, using a spending app can help you keep tabs on where your money is going so you can make ends meet.

In the meantime, using a spending app can help you keep tabs on where your money is going so you can make ends meet.

What Do Diesel Mechanics Do?

Diesel mechanics inspect, repair, and maintain vehicle engines that run on diesel fuel. This includes everything from trucks, overhaul buses, and trains, to cruise ships, generators, and construction and agricultural equipment. Their goal is to make sure vehicles are safe for both drivers and passengers.

A diesel mechanic position is a manual labor trade job you can get without a college degree, though most employers want diesel techs to have at least a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. While you don’t need secondary education to do the job, you do need specialized training, which can be acquired on the job, through a certificate program, or by attending a trade or vocational school.

And though diesel mechanics may need to occasionally speak with customers about issues with the vehicles, it can be a good job for introverts.

Recommended: 25 High-Paying Trade Jobs in Demand

Examples of a Diesel Mechanic’s Job Responsibilities

There are many daily responsibilities for a diesel mechanic, ranging from simple servicing to major repairs. For instance, when examining a diesel engine, the mechanic can run a diagnostic test to determine if the engine is running properly. If there’s a problem, a diesel mechanic can replace a vehicle’s engine, transmission, steering, and braking systems.

Here are some other essential work duties a diesel mechanic typically performs:

•   Identifying any engine malfunction issues

•   Securing the parts needed for servicing

•   Test driving vehicles for performance

•   Communicating issues about the vehicle to the customer and advising them on how best to maintain the machinery

•   Keeping detailed work records on engines serviced

What Is the Starting Salary for a Diesel Mechanic?

If you’re just starting out as a diesel mechanic, you probably won’t earn the median salary of $59,920. According to the BLS, 10 percent of workers — most likely those new to the field — earn closer to $39,020, or $18.76 per hour. In some states, this rate is only a few dollars more than minimum wage.

Whether you’re paid a set weekly salary or hourly rate, starting out as an entry-level diesel mechanic can be challenging. The wages may be difficult to live on, especially if you have a lot of financial obligations or live in a place with a higher cost of living.

But if working with machinery and, in particular, on diesel engines is what you really want to do, it can be worth any initial sacrifices. And the good news is, diesel mechanic jobs are expected to continue to grow. So in time, you can move up the ladder or seek out a new job to increase your yearly salary.

In the meantime, using a spending app can help you keep tabs on where your money is going so you can make ends meet.

What Is the Average Diesel Mechanic Salary by State?

If you’re considering going into the field, you may be wondering how much a diesel mechanic makes a year. As previously mentioned, the median pay for a diesel service technician and mechanic is $59,920 per year, or $28.81 per hour.

Keep in mind that in certain areas, there’s an increased demand for diesel mechanics, which means there’s a greater chance pay rates will be higher. Per the BLS, here’s the average diesel mechanic salary by state.

State	Annual Salary
Alabama	$51,760
Alaska	$69,760
Arizona	$57,470
Arkansas	$50,800
California	$69,850
Colorado	$65,250
Connecticut	$67,100
Delaware	$60,480
Florida	$56,900
Georgia	$58,200
Hawaii	$70,010
Idaho	$56,350
Illinois	$64,670
Indiana	$58,230
Iowa	$55,810
Kansas	$53,420
Kentucky	$51,530
Louisiana	$51,530
Maine	$54,350
Maryland	$64,800
Massachusetts	$68,030
Michigan	$57,090
Minnesota	$63,110
Mississippi	$49,070
Missouri	$56,560
Montana	$54,530
Nebraska	$53,270
Nevada	$62,030
New Hampshire	$62,160
New Jersey	$65,540
New Mexico	$53,480
New York	$69,710
North Carolina	$54,240
North Dakota	$62,470
Ohio	$55,450
Oklahoma	$52,770
Oregon	$60,920
Pennsylvania	$56,210
Rhode Island	$60,970
South Carolina	$52,060
South Dakota	$59,570
Tennessee	$56,630
Texas	$57,020
Utah	$59,270
Vermont	$60,360
Virginia	$56,520
Washington	$69,620
West Virginia	$49,440
Wisconsin	$59,650
Wyoming	$57,840

Recommended: The Highest-Paying Jobs in Every State

Diesel Mechanic Job Considerations: Pay and Benefits

Looking for a diesel mechanic job? Along with researching positions with competitive pay, it’s important to factor in employer benefits.

Here are common employee benefits offered to diesel mechanics:

•   Health, dental, vision, and life insurance

•   401(k) with possible employer match

•   Tuition reimbursement

•   Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and/or Health Savings Account (HSA)

•   Paid sick days, vacation, and holiday pay

•   Parental leave

•   Stock options

•   Profit sharing

•   Low prescription drug costs

•   Wellness programs, such as free counseling services

Pros and Cons of a Diesel Mechanic’s Salary

When it comes to a diesel mechanic’s earnings, there are potential upsides and downsides you’ll want to keep in mind.

Advantages of a Diesel Mechanic’s Salary	Disadvantages of a Diesel Mechanic’s Salary
Salary can be comfortable depending on state or city where you work	Wages may not be enough if you live in a state or area with a higher cost of living
Steady work schedule with opportunities for overtime pay	Salaried workers may not be entitled to overtime pay
Pay can rise with career experience, increased job education from extra certification, training programs, or vocational school	Lack of work experience and little to no training can mean a lower salary when you first start out
Can receive a commission, tips, or bonus in addition to base salary, depending on the company	Employers may not offer commissions or bonuses, and employees may not be allowed to accept tips

The Takeaway

The median pay for a diesel service mechanic is $59,920 per year, or $28.81 per hour, according to the latest figures from the BLS. However, that amount can vary by state, and there may be opportunities to earn more with additional training and experience. Diesel mechanics are in demand, and jobs are expected to continue growing. This means skilled technicians may have opportunities to join companies that offer benefit packages, potentially move up the ranks, and even increase their take-home pay.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What is the highest-paying diesel mechanic job?

According to the BLS, the highest salary for a diesel mechanic clocks in around $82,430 a year. Types of diesel mechanics who generally make more money include those who work on heavy-duty trucks, tractor trailers, and water-based vessels such as cargo and cruise ships.

How much does a diesel mechanic earn in the Bay Area?

The average annual diesel technician salary in San Francisco is $83,370, according to the BLS. That works out to an average hourly rate of $40.08.

Is being a diesel tech worth it?

For people who enjoy working with their hands and have an interest in the workings of machinery, becoming a diesel tech can be a rewarding career. The field offers opportunities for constant learning, increased expertise, job stability and room for career advancement.

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Photo credit: iStock/sathit trakunpunlert

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Linemen are critical for keeping utility services running smoothly. If you’re interested in this career path, you might be wondering how much does a lineman make a year. The mean annual salary for electrical power line installers and repairers was $85,900 in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

It’s possible to make more money (or less) depending on how many years of experience you have and where you’re employed. Looking at hourly and annual wage data can provide a clearer answer to the question of how much money does a lineman make.

What Is a Lineman?

A lineman or line installer and repairer is someone who works with electrical power systems and telecommunications systems. The typical duties and responsibilities of a lineman include:

•   Installing, maintaining, and repairing electrical power lines

•   Identifying defective components within electrical systems, such as transformers or voltage regulators

•   Erecting power poles and stringing electrical lines

•   Inspecting and testing power lines and equipment

•   Operating power equipment to complete repairs or installations of electrical system components

Linemen can work in different specialty areas. For example, some linemen exclusively work on electrical power substations, while others may install and repair fiber optic cables. Line repairers may be dispatched to repair electrical lines or telecommunications systems following a natural disaster, such as a hurricane.

A lineman’s work requires being outdoors much of the time. Unlike retail or restaurant workers, they typically have limited interaction with the public, which could make this one of the best jobs for introverts.

However, they still have to communicate with colleagues, so it’s not necessarily one of the best jobs for antisocial people who prefer to work alone.

How Much Does a Starting Lineman Make?

What is a good entry-level salary for a lineman? Entry-level salaries for electrical linemen vary depending on where they’re located, their educational background, and which company they’re employed with. At the low end of the spectrum, lineman jobs pay an annual wage of $48,220, according to the BLS.

How does salary vs. hourly pay compare for linemen? Again at the low end, a starting lineman makes $23.18 an hour, according to BLS data. At the high end of the scale, a lineman earns $57.66 per hour or $119,920 in annual salary. These estimates assume that a full-time schedule for a lineman works out to 2,080 hours per year.

When discussing how much does a lineman make an hour, it’s important to consider the bigger picture. The actual hourly wage for a lineman can depend on how many hours they work per year and how many of those hours are paid at their regular wage, versus overtime pay or time-and-a-half.

Hourly and annual pay for linemen can increase as they gain more experience. For example, if you’re asking how much does a journeyman lineman make, you’re likely to get a different answer compared to someone who’s just starting out. Journeyman linemen are fully trained and can have years of experience, while a regular lineman may still be at the apprentice stage.

As you climb up the ranks of your field, you’ll likely see a bump in pay. An online budget planner can help you create budgets, manage upcoming bills, and monitor your credit score — for free.

What Is the Average Salary for a Lineman?

The mean annual salary for a lineman is $85,900, according to the BLS, while the median salary is $85,420 per year. The median lineman salary reflects the middle ground between the highest and lowest salaries. Average salaries reflect the mean of all salaries earned by linemen.

The average lineman salary by state may be higher or lower than the national average. Here’s a comparison of the average lineman salary by state, based on BLS data for 2023.

Average Lineman Salary by State for 2023
State	Annual Salary	State	Annual Salary
Alabama	$79,090	Montana	$99,530
Alaska	$102,580	Nebraska	$75,660
Arizona	$84,070	Nevada	$71,840
Arkansas	$71,980	New Hampshire	$97,440
California	$111,960	New Jersey	$103,140
Colorado	$91,840	New Mexico	$70,390
Connecticut	$94,930	New York	$108,670
Delaware	$88,150	North Carolina	$72,750
Florida	$77,950	North Dakota	$96,550
Georgia	$75,100	Ohio	$82,500
Hawaii	$110,660	Oklahoma	$67,510
Idaho	$97,260	Oregon	$100,100
Illinois	$99,520	Pennsylvania	$92,370
Indiana	$88,680	Rhode Island	$106,880
Iowa	$88,360	South Carolina	$69,970
Kansas	$86,740	South Dakota	$81,750
Kentucky	$74,300	Tennessee	$71,120
Louisiana	$70,820	Texas	$72,820
Maine	$86,970	Utah	$75,430
Maryland	$91,190	Vermont	$96,260
Massachusetts	$97,160	Virginia	$74,450
Michigan	$94,660	Washington	$107,450
Minnesota	$94,550	West Virginia	$77,700
Mississippi	$67,960	Wisconsin	$98,460
Missouri	$86,530	Wyoming	$89,550

If you’re wondering what trade makes the most money, jobs in the electrical field certainly make the list. When you look at the bigger picture, lineman positions can be some of the highest paying jobs by state.

In terms of what is competitive pay for a lineman, it’s easy to see that some states have a much higher average salary than others. The top states for lineman jobs, which includes California, pay $100,000 or more a year on average. But is $100,000 a good salary for this kind of work? That’s an important question to ask, since this type of job can be more physically intensive — and dangerous — than others.

Whether a six-figure salary is good or not can depend largely on how you use it. If you’re focused on saving, then $100K a year might go pretty far. (A money tracker can help you keep tabs on your finances.) On the other hand, if you’re struggling with debt or don’t keep a regular budget, then you might have a hard time making ends meet, even with six-figure pay.

Lineman Job Considerations for Pay & Benefits

Becoming a lineman may require no more than a high school diploma or equivalent. Instead of earning a bachelor’s or advanced degree, you may learn everything you need to know on the job through hands-on training. Most linemen work regular business hours and schedules, though they may be expected to work weekends or respond to emergency calls for service.

If you’re working full-time, your employer may offer a benefits package that includes health insurance, a retirement plan, and other perks. That, along with a solid annual salary, can make this kind of work appealing.

Again, how much much money a lineman makes can depend on what kind of experience they have and where they’re located. Living in California or New York, for example, can help you unlock higher pay. However, that can also mean dealing with a higher cost of living, which can put more of a strain on your paycheck. And of course, inflation can also affect your hourly wage.

Pros and Cons of Lineman Salary

It’s easy to be persuaded that a career as a lineman could be worthwhile when you’re looking solely at the average annual salary. If you’ve paid attention to any of the recent discussions about raising the minimum wage, you should be aware that linemen make a significantly higher hourly rate.

Making more money can be a good thing if you’re able to reach your financial goals. That might include starting an emergency fund, putting money away for retirement, or paying down debt. As mentioned, lineman jobs can also come with good benefits, depending on where you’re employed.

Now, what about the cons? Lineman work can be stressful and may involve working long hours if you’re repairing power lines after a natural disaster. You may be required to work in less than ideal weather conditions, including extreme cold or heat. A lot of driving can be involved if you’re constantly moving from one location to another.

The job itself can be dangerous, since linemen routinely climb power poles and deal with high-voltage electricity. Minor or major injuries and even deaths can occur on the job. While linemen are specially trained to deal with different types of emergencies, this is still one of the most hazardous occupations overall.

The Takeaway

Working as a lineman is something you might consider if you’d like to bank a higher salary and you don’t mind physically strenuous work outdoors. Comparing the average lineman salary by state can be helpful when deciding where to apply for a position.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What is the highest salary for a lineman?

The highest average salary by state for a lineman is $111,960. That’s what linemen in California earn on average per year. Where you live and work can make a difference in how much money you can make as a lineman, as some states have much higher average pay than others.

Does a lineman make six figures?

There are lineman jobs that pay six figures per year. Whether you can make six figures as a lineman will depend largely on your experience and where you live.

What does a lineman make in Texas?

Texas is one of the lower-paying states for lineman jobs. The average annual salary for a lineman in Texas is $72,820, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Whether that’s a good salary to live on can depend on your expenses and which part of Texas you call home.

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Photo credit: iStock/Prapat Aowsakorn

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Ideas for making money at home are everywhere. And some of the best ones revolve around things you can do online or off, using skills and experience you already have.

Figuring out which money-making idea works for you often depends on how much time you have and how much extra income you’re interested in generating. You might start a side hustle, explore small business ideas, look for passive income options, or get a full-time remote job.

Need some inspiration? Here are more than 40 options to consider.

40+ Creative Ways to Make Money

Creative thinking is key to finding different ways to earn an income, especially if your goal is to learn how to make money with no job. Some of the easiest ways to earn extra cash from home are selling a service (i.e., your time and skills) or selling a product.

Can you earn money online without selling anything? Absolutely, and there are plenty of ways to do it. We’ve broken down some different ideas by category to help you find your perfect money-making idea.

Recommended: Free Credit Score Monitoring

Money-Making Craft Ideas

Selling handmade crafts can be an excellent way to turn a hobby into a side hustle or full-fledged business. You don’t necessarily need to be an expert artisan to get started.

Craft trends come and go, but here are some classic products to consider trying:

•   Crocheted items, such as scarves or baby clothes

•   Handmade soap

•   Handmade candles

•   Bath bombs and bath scrubs

•   Paper goods

•   Jewelry

•   Lip balms

•   Home decor items

•   Lamps and lighting

•   Pillows

•   Vinyl stickers or decals

•   Handpainted signs

•   Hair accessories

•   String art

•   Art prints

•   Tote bags

•   Wreaths

•   Holiday decorations

•   Bookmarks

•   Keychains

•   Dog bowls and other pet accessories

Once you zero in on your craft idea, think about how much time you’ll need to make each item and how much money you’ll need to spend on supplies. This can help you figure out how to price each item and how much profit you stand to make. Tip: Do some online research and see how other sellers are pricing and marketing their items.

Another important consideration is where you sell your goods. Luckily, there’s no shortage of options — here are some to consider:

•   Facebook Marketplace

•   Local Facebook bargain or community groups

•   Etsy

•   Amazon Handmade

•   aftcra.com

•   Craigslist

•   eBay

•   Your own website

•   Craft fairs

•   Local boutiques

If you’re selling your crafts online, remember to factor in shipping costs, taxes, and any fees the platform charges when setting your prices. Otherwise, you could end up shrinking your total profit.

Money-Making Website Ideas

You don’t need a website to earn extra cash from home, but having one could open up new money-making opportunities. To set up a website, you’ll need to find a hosting company and choose a domain. Your domain is your site name.

Once your site is set up, there are several ways you could use it to make money:

Selling products

A website is a great way to sell products you create, such as an e-book, digital printables, or an online course. If you’re selling handmade items, like crafts or clothing, you could set up a shop page on your site instead of using a third-party selling platform.

Selling services

If you don’t want to make a product, you could try selling a service instead. For example, you might use a website to offer services such as writing, photography, graphic design, tutoring, or online coaching.

Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing means recommending products and services sold by other people, then collecting a commission when the person you referred makes a purchase. For instance, if you have a pet blog, you could include an affiliate link to your favorite dog food brand. When someone clicks the link and buys the dog food, you make money.

Ads

Hosting ads on your website is another way to potentially earn extra cash from home. Every time someone visits your site and views an ad, you make money. The more traffic — or views — your website gets, the more you could earn.

Sponsored content

Sponsored content is an article, video, social media post, or other type of content that someone pays you to create and post. So again, say you have a pet blog. A dog food company might reach out and ask you to write a sponsored post reviewing their newest product. In turn, they pay you a flat fee for writing and publishing the post. You could also make money if your readers buy the product through your affiliate link.

If you’re interested in making money with a website, it helps to learn more about how to drive traffic. For example, it’s a good idea to know how search engine optimization (SEO) works and how to use it to drive people from Google or other search engines to your site. You may also want to consider how you can use social media to send additional traffic your way.

Money-Making Business Ideas

Thinking about becoming your own boss? If you prefer online business ideas, there are plenty of opportunities to consider, including:

•   Coaching or consulting

•   Interior design

•   Freelance writing or editing

•   Starting an e-commerce store

•   Virtual accounting

•   Transcription services

•   Teaching online through a platform like Outschool

Now, what could you do offline to make money from home? Some small business ideas you might pursue could include starting a home baking business, offering childcare services in your home, or tutoring.

If you’re interested in starting a home business, it’s important to check into any legal requirements in your state first. For example, if you want to launch a baking business from home, you might be subject to local or state restrictions on home kitchens. The same applies if you want to care for children in your home. Once you reach a certain number of children, you may need to register with the state as a daycare center.

Side Hustle Money-Making Ideas

There are lots of low-stress ways to earn money. Will these opportunities make you rich? Not necessarily. But they could be a good way to earn some extra cash in your spare time without a lot of effort.

Here are some ideas to explore:

•   Taking online surveys

•   Joining an online focus group

•   Selling things you no longer need

•   Getting paid to watch videos, play games, or read emails

•   Customer service representative

•   Earning free gift cards or money with cashback apps

•   Becoming a mock juror online

•   Getting paid to test websites or apps

Home Jobs to Avoid

While there are lots of ideas for making extra money, some are better than others. Here are ones to avoid:

•   Illegal side hustles or jobs

•   Work-from-home job scams

•   At-home jobs that require a lot of work for little pay

•   Pyramid schemes or multi-level marketing (MLM) programs

There’s a simple rule of thumb to keep in mind when researching ways to earn extra cash: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Words and phrases like “guaranteed,” “make money while you sleep,” or “easy money” are often telltale indicators that an at-home job opportunity isn’t everything it seems. It’s also a good idea to be wary of any work-from-home job that requires you to pay fees or a deposit up front before getting started.

Tips for Making Money From Home

If you’re pursuing money-making ideas from home, it helps to know some of the do’s and don’ts so you can avoid job scams while maximizing your earning potential.

When exploring ways to make money from home, do:

•   Look for opportunities that fit your skill set or interests

•   Consider how much time you can put in to making money

•   Weigh any up front investment of time or money that might be required

•   Remember to keep track of work-related expenses using a spending app

•   Report the income you earn on your taxes if you’re required to do so

When looking at ways to make money from home, don’t:

•   Assume it’s easy to make money online

•   Give out personal or sensitive information to people you don’t know

•   Fall for work-from-home job scams

•   “Forget” to report the money you make on your taxes

•   Get frustrated and give up if you’re not making money right away

Also, don’t be afraid to try and try again if something isn’t working out. After all, there’s no single option for how to make extra income from home. You may start off doing one thing and find that another side hustle or job idea is a better fit. And you don’t have to limit yourself to just one thing either — having multiple side hustles can mean multiple streams of income.

The Takeaway

Whether you’re selling goods online, starting a business, or using your website to turn a profit, there’s no shortage of ways to make money from the comfort of home. In fact, you may discover there are multiple opportunities that fit your schedule and interests. As you’re researching your options, factor in how much time and money is required. It’s also a good idea to be wary of opportunities that sound too good to be true, because they probably are. Once you start drawing an income, don’t forget to report it on your taxes, if you’re required to do so.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

How can I make $100 a day from home?

Some of the best ways to make $100 a day from home include taking surveys for money, using cashback apps to shop, offering freelance services, and selling printables or handcrafted items online. You can also make $100 a day from home by flipping items you no longer need on sites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist.

How can I make fun money?

If you just want to make some extra money to spend on “fun,” some of the easiest ways to do it include selling things you no longer need, doing odd jobs in your spare time, or getting paid to take surveys and play games through various mobile apps. You can also research weird ways to make money, like donating plasma or selling your hair.

How can I make money just sitting at home?

Some of the best ways to make money sitting at home are passive income ideas that require little to no work. For example, you may be able to make passive income by investing in stocks that pay dividends, setting up an affiliate marketing website to earn commissions when people shop at your affiliate partners, or opening a digital printable shop on sites like Etsy.

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Photo credit: iStock/FluxFactory

SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

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Gas prices hit new highs in 2022. And while they’ve fallen since that spike, the government expects prices to drop even more in 2025 and 2026. Keep reading to learn more about historical gas prices, get a sense of how things have changed over time, and learn tips for finding cheap gas in your area.

Why Gas Prices Are Falling in 2025

As anyone who’s gone to the pump in the past couple of years knows, filling up isn’t as cheap as it used to be. Gas prices rose in the second half of 2023, due in large part to a drop in global oil production. And though they fell somewhat in 2024, they remained stubbornly higher than before the pandemic.

Thankfully for drivers, gas prices are expected to drop even more in 2025 and 2026, as crude oil prices are projected to fall. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), prices at the pump will average around $3.20 per gallon in 2025, a decrease of more than 11 cents per gallon from 2024. The annual average price of gas is expected to drop even more — to $3.00 per gallon — in 2026.

If fill-ups are putting a dent in your wallet, consider using a money tracker to monitor spending and create budgets.

Average Price by State for Regular Unleaded in October 2023

Data is courtesy of AAA .

STATE NAME	Unleaded Price in February 2025
Alabama	$2.80
Alaska	$3.34
Arizona	$3.29
Arkansas	$2.80
California	$4.62
Colorado	$3.04
Connecticut	$3.08
Delaware	$3.07
Florida	$3.15
Georgia	$2.94
Hawaii	$4.54
Idaho	$3.18
Illinois	$3.25
Indiana	$2.94
Iowa	$2.96
Kansas	$2.82
Kentucky	$2.81
Louisiana	$2.76
Maine	$3.07
Maryland	$3.19
Massachusetts	$3.03
Michigan	$3.09
Minnesota	$3.02
Mississippi	$2.67
Missouri	$2.84
Montana	$3.01
Nebraska	$2.92
Nevada	$3.76
New Hampshire	$2.97
New Jersey	$3.04
New Mexico	$2.93
New York	$3.17
North Carolina	$2.89
North Dakota	$2.97
Ohio	$3.03
Oklahoma	$2.74
Oregon	$3.66
Pennsylvania	$3.35
Rhode Island	$3.00
South Carolina	$2.85
South Dakota	$2.95
Tennessee	$2.76
Texas	$2.70
Utah	$3.04
Vermont	$3.14
Virginia	$3.04
Washington	$4.04
West Virginia	$2.98
Wisconsin	$2.92
Wyoming	$2.98

Average Price by State for Premium in February 2025

Data is courtesy of AAA.

STATE NAME	Premium Price in February 2025
Alabama	$3.61
Alaska	$3.76
Arizona	$3.93
Arkansas	$3.57
California	$5.01
Colorado	$3.77
Connecticut	$4.04
Delaware	$3.90
Florida	$3.90
Georgia	$3.76
Hawaii	$5.01
Idaho	$3.67
Illinois	$4.25
Indiana	$3.95
Iowa	$3.72
Kansas	$3.45
Kentucky	$3.73
Louisiana	$3.56
Maine	$4.06
Maryland	$4.08
Massachusetts	$3.99
Michigan	$4.17
Minnesota	$3.80
Mississippi	$3.45
Missouri	$3.50
Montana	$3.65
Nebraska	$3.60
Nevada	$4.32
New Hampshire	$3.95
New Jersey	$3.84
New Mexico	$3.63
New York	$4.06
North Carolina	$3.71
North Dakota	$3.61
Ohio	$4.06
Oklahoma	$3.42
Oregon	$4.11
Pennsylvania	$4.14
Rhode Island	$4.06
South Carolina	$3.63
South Dakota	$3.59
Tennessee	$3.56
Texas	$3.49
Utah	$3.51
Vermont	$4.09
Virginia	$3.88
Washington	$4.49
West Virginia	$3.81
Wisconsin	$3.91
Wyoming	$3.53

Average Price by State for Diesel Gas in February 2025

Data is courtesy of AAA.

STATE NAME	Diesel Price in February 2025
Alabama	$3.47
Alaska	$3.52
Arizona	$3.62
Arkansas	$3.30
California	$5.00
Colorado	$3.35
Connecticut	$3.86
Delaware	$3.72
Florida	$3.60
Georgia	$3.63
Hawaii	$5.30
Idaho	$3.54
Illinois	$3.62
Indiana	$3.64
Iowa	$3.49
Kansas	$3.32
Kentucky	$3.31
Louisiana	$3.36
Maine	$3.96
Maryland	$3.80
Massachusetts	$3.82
Michigan	$3.52
Minnesota	$3.52
Mississippi	$3.30
Missouri	$3.31
Montana	$3.39
Nebraska	$3.34
Nevada	$3.78
New Hampshire	$3.81
New Jersey	$3.75
New Mexico	$3.52
New York	$3.96
North Carolina	$3.55
North Dakota	$3.54
Ohio	$3.54
Oklahoma	$3.19
Oregon	$3.86
Pennsylvania	$4.09
Rhode Island	$3.81
South Carolina	$3.48
South Dakota	$3.42
Tennessee	$3.39
Texas	$3.28
Utah	$3.51
Vermont	$3.79
Virginia	$3.70
Washington	$4.37
West Virginia	$3.58
Wisconsin	$3.39
Wyoming	$3.41

Average US Gas Price 1978 to 2022

Historical data is courtesy of the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Year	Average Gas Price
2024	$3.57
2023	$3.71
2022	$4.19
2021	$3.13
2020	$3.99
2021	$3.13
2020	$2.24
2019	$2.69
2018	$2.79
2017	$2.46
2016	$2.20
2015	$2.51
2014	$3.42
2013	$3.58
2012	$3.69
2011	$3.57
2010	$2.83
2009	$2.40
2008	$3.31
2007	$2.84
2006	$2.63
2005	$2.33
2004	$1.92
2003	$1.63
2002	$1.44
2001	$1.53
2000	$1.56
1999	$1.22
1998	$1.11
1997	$1.29
1996	$1.28
1995	$1.25
1994	$1.17
1993	$1.17
1992	$1.19
1991	$1.19
1990	$1.21
1989	$1.06
1988	$0.96
1987	$0.95
1986	$0.93
1985	$1.19
1984	$1.19
1983	$1.22
1982	$1.28
1981	$1.35
1980	$1.22
1979	$0.88
1978	$0.65

Tips for Finding Cheap Gas Stations in Your State

There are a few ways to find the cheapest gas in the nearby area and save money on your gas bill:

•   Use an app like GasBuddy to locate the lowest nearby price. The app lets drivers search by gas type, payment type, the brand of gas station, and other factors. The app also offers cashback deals, paid subscriptions, and more.

•   AAA has a gas price monitoring website that gets updated every day. Drivers can search by state and country to find the best prices.

•   Both Google Maps and Waze keep track of gas prices. When you search for gas stations within their maps, the price of gas at local stations will pop up. Although one can’t filter by price or automatically see the lowest price, it’s fairly easy to look around and find the cheapest option.

•   Another useful app is Upside. The app lets users compare gas prices near them, and also earn cash back every time they fill up their tank.

•   Besides the ability to buy in bulk, one of the perks of getting a Costco or Sam’s membership is getting discounts on gas. It’s often the cheapest option for club members.

•   Certain days of the week tend to have lower prices. Generally, Mondays are the cheapest, followed by Sunday, while Wednesday and Thursday are the most expensive days.

Recommended: What Credit Score Is Needed to Buy a Car

The Takeaway

Gas prices go up and down in response to a variety of global and domestic factors. But there are a few ways to source the best deals on gas and stay within your budget, including apps and membership-only retailers.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

What was the price of gas in 1980?

In 1980, the average price of gas was $1.22. That is equivalent to $4.56 in 2025 dollars.

What year were gas prices the highest?

In June 2022, gas prices in the U.S. hit an all-time high of $5.00.

How much did gas cost in the 90s?

In the 1990s, gas cost between $1.11 and $1.15 per gallon.

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Photo credit: iStock/skodonnell
SoFi Relay offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You shall confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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