Winter is here, and while most people are cozying up with hot chocolate and Netflix, you’re eyeing that frosty wonderland thinking, how can I make some money off this mess? Well, you’re in luck! It just so happens that winter is a time of great opportunities for anyone who is willing to put themselves out there and work hard.
Sound good? Here are just a few winter side hustles that could see you clean up (in more ways than one):
- Shoveling Snow
We have to start with the OG winter hustle—snow shoveling. If you’ve got a shovel, some warm gloves, and a willingness to brave the cold, you’re already halfway there. But let’s be real: shoveling snow the old-fashioned way is back-breaking work, and your competition might include a kid down the street charging $5.
Say hello to the battery powered snow shovel. This genius gadget makes snow removal faster, easier, and way less sweaty, which not only helps to make you look more professional, but will also enable you to clear even more drives, so you can make tons more money where you charge a flat fee or an hourly rate!
- Holiday Decorating Services
Not everyone has the time, energy, or ladder skills to hang lights and set up holiday décor. That’s where you come in. Offer your services to help people transform their homes into festive wonderlands.
Whether it’s untangling miles of twinkling lights, climbing up roofs to hang wreaths, or setting up elaborate lawn displays, this side hustle has major earning potential. Charge by the hour or by project, and don’t forget to upsell with takedown services in January. Bonus: you’ll feel like an elf, minus the pointy shoes.
- Winter Pet Services
Dog owners still need someone to walk Fido, even when it’s snowing sideways. Offer winter pet services like dog walking, pet sitting, or even pet snow boot fitting (yes, that’s a thing).
Snow-covered sidewalks and icy conditions can be tricky, so invest in good boots and maybe some grippy gear for extra safety. Your furry clients will love you, and their owners will gladly pay you to brave the elements on their behalf.
- Firewood Delivery
People love a roaring fire in winter, but chopping wood? Not so much. If you’ve got access to a woodpile, a truck, and some elbow grease, you can make a tidy profit delivering firewood.
Take it up a notch by offering stacking services. Neatly arranged logs = satisfied customers who’ll happily call you every time their pile runs low. Just don’t forget to keep your own firewood stash stocked—after all, you’ve earned a cozy evening by the fire too.
- Winterizing Homes
Not everyone knows how to prep their homes for winter, and that’s where you come in. Offer services like sealing drafts, wrapping pipes, and even clearing out gutters before the snow hits.
It’s the perfect gig for the handyman (or handywoman) who wants to save people from freezing pipes and sky-high heating bills. Plus, you’ll get major bonus points for being the hero who saved someone’s plumbing during a polar vortex.
- Holiday Gift Wrapping
For many, gift wrapping is an art form. For others, it’s a nightmare of uneven edges, lopsided bows, and excessive tape. If you fall into the former category, congratulations—you’ve got yourself a side hustle.
Set up a wrapping station in your home or offer mobile gift-wrapping services. You bring the ribbons, paper, and flair; they bring the gifts and gratitude. Charge per gift or by the hour, and enjoy the satisfaction of turning chaos into Pinterest-worthy presents.
- Snow Sculptures
Got a knack for turning snow into art? Offer custom snow sculptures for people who want to wow their neighbors. Think snowmen, igloos, or even elaborate displays for businesses looking to attract holiday shoppers.
You’ll need some sculpting skills and the right tools, but the payoff is worth it—literally and figuratively. Charge based on size and complexity, and prepare to be the coolest artist in town (pun intended).
- Hot Cocoa Stands
Why should kids have all the fun? Set up a hot cocoa stand at a busy winter event or near a sledding hill, and watch people line up for a steaming cup of liquid happiness.
Offer toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, or even a splash of peppermint syrup for an upscale twist. Don’t forget to price it right—people will happily pay for the convenience of warm hands and tasty cocoa.
- Ski and Snowboard Tune-Ups
If you know your way around skis or snowboards, offer tune-up services to keep winter sports enthusiasts gliding smoothly. Waxing, sharpening edges, and fixing bindings are all services people are willing to pay for, especially if you’re faster (and cheaper) than the local ski shop.
Set up a pickup and delivery option for extra convenience, and you’ll have clients sliding into your DMs (literally).
- Winter Photography
Snowy landscapes, cozy family portraits, and holiday card photos are in high demand during the winter months. If you’ve got a decent camera and a good eye, winter photography can be a lucrative gig.
Offer mini photo sessions for couples, families, or even pets. Snowy backdrops make everything look magical, and people will gladly pay you to freeze (pun intended) those memories in time.
- Ice Rink Maintenance
Local rinks need upkeep, and if you know your way around a shovel, broom, or Zamboni, you’re in business. Volunteer your services to help maintain community ice rinks, or start your own private gig for backyard rink owners.
It’s a niche hustle, but one that pays well—and you’ll score major points with the local hockey and figure skating crowd.
- Personal Winter Shopper
Not everyone enjoys braving the mall in freezing weather, but plenty of people still need gifts, winter gear, or supplies. Offer your services as a personal winter shopper to handle the hassle for them.
You get to stay warm inside the stores while avoiding the usual chaos. Charge an hourly rate or flat fee, and enjoy the thrill of spending someone else’s money (responsibly, of course).
Winter really is the season of opportunity if you’re willing to hustle! So, what are you waiting for?
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