The Five Most Lucrative Side Hustles in South Africa for 2025

With the rising cost of living, South Africans are increasingly turning to side hustles to supplement their income. According to chartered accountant and business owner Davron Chanderdeo, five side hustles stood out in 2024—helping people earn serious money. These trends are expected to remain profitable in 2025.

Chanderdeo, who has worked with clients across these industries, shares the top side hustles that are helping South Africans earn up to R50,000 per month part-time.

1. Freelancing: R50,000+ per Month

With global demand for remote work, freelancing has exploded in popularity. Graphic designers, writers, web developers, and digital marketers are securing international clients through platforms like:

• Upwork
• Fiverr
• PeoplePerHour

Top freelancers in South Africa earn over R50,000 monthly, working flexible hours from home.

2. eCommerce & Dropshipping: Unlimited Potential

Online selling is booming, and eCommerce entrepreneurs are making money by selling:

• Fashion & accessories
• Gadgets & electronics
• Digital products (eBooks, courses, templates)

Platforms like Takealot, Shopify, and Makro Online allow users to set up an online store without holding inventory. This low-risk, high-reward model makes it one of the most lucrative side hustles.

3. Ride-Sharing & Delivery Services: R15,000 per Month

Many South Africans are supplementing their income by working with:

• Uber
• Bolt
• Mr D & Uber Eats

Drivers can earn up to R15,000 per month, working on their own schedule, making this a flexible and profitable side hustle.

4. Content Creation: Five-Figure Earnings

With the rise of TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, content creators are cashing in through:

• Brand sponsorships
• Advertising revenue
• Selling merchandise & online courses

Influencers who build an engaged audience are earning five-figure incomes, making this a highly scalable side hustle.

5. Online Tutoring & Teaching: R30,000 per Month

South Africans are teaching English and specialized skills online through platforms like:

• Preply
• Teach Me 2
• Outschool

With some tutors making R30,000 per month, this is a fantastic way to earn from home.

Tax Implications: What You Need to Know

Lenichea Carelse, Accounting Manager at Tax Consulting SA, warns that all side hustle income is taxable in South Africa.

• If your total income exceeds the tax threshold, you must register as a provisional taxpayer.
• Provisional taxpayers pay tax twice a year based on their estimated earnings.
• Failing to declare income can lead to criminal investigations and stiff penalties from SARS.

These side hustles are proving to be lucrative for South Africans looking to diversify their income streams. Whether you’re interested in freelancing, online business, or ride-sharing, 2025 is the perfect time to start.

Which side hustle interests you the most?

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