The traditional 9-to-5 job is no longer cutting it for millions of UK workers...
With the cost of living squeezing household budgets and career ambitions evolving, more Brits are turning to second jobs and side hustles to make ends meet (and chase their dreams).
Data from our recent survey* reveals that 17% of UK workers are actively looking to take on a second job due to the cost of living, while another 16% are seeking extra work on top of their current role. This shift represents a fundamental change in how we approach work and income in modern Britain.
Here’s why so many workers are embracing the side hustle economy, and what it means for the future of employment:
The financial reality driving second jobs
The numbers tell a stark story about why UK workers are seeking additional income streams.
Rising living costs are the primary driver behind this trend. Our research shows that 35% of job seekers are specifically looking for higher pay due to the cost of living, whilst 29% are seeking roles with more job security for the same reason.
This financial pressure isn't just affecting entry-level workers either. People across all salary brackets are feeling the pinch, with many discovering that their primary income simply doesn't stretch as far as it used to.
The appeal of a second job becomes clear when you consider the potential earnings. Side hustlers in the UK make an average of £780 per month - that's nearly £10,000 extra per year**. For many, this additional income represents the difference between scraping by and living comfortably.
Some high earners are doing exceptionally well from their side hustles too. The top 5% of UK side hustlers earn over £100,000 annually from their secondary income alone**, proving that second jobs can sometimes become more lucrative than primary careers.
What types of second jobs are people choosing?
The modern side hustle landscape is remarkably diverse, with opportunities spanning from traditional part-time work to innovative online ventures.
Creative and artisan work leads the pack
Selling handcrafted products remains the most popular side hustle, accounting for 23% of all secondary income activities**. This trend reflects both the rise of online marketplaces like Etsy and a desire for creative fulfilment outside traditional employment.
Digital services are booming
Online freelancing services make up 12% of side hustles**, with roles ranging from virtual assistance to social media management. The flexibility of remote work makes these particularly attractive to busy professionals.
Photography and content creation
With 9% of side hustlers focusing on photography and 10% working as social media influencers**, the creator economy is clearly thriving. These roles often start as hobbies before evolving into serious income streams.
High-earning tech opportunities
Information Technology roles command the highest side hustle earnings, averaging £622 per month**. This includes everything from freelance web development to IT consulting - perfect for tech professionals looking to monetise their expertise outside working hours.
The time investment challenge
Managing a second job alongside primary employment requires careful time management. Most side hustlers dedicate about 10 hours per week to their additional work, though 18% spend 20 hours or more**.
This time commitment often comes at the expense of leisure activities and family time. Adobe's research found that 43% of side hustlers struggle with time management, citing challenges like balancing multiple responsibilities and avoiding burnout***.
However, many find the financial benefits worth the sacrifice. The extra £780 monthly average means side hustlers can afford luxuries (27% spend their earnings this way), pay for essential living expenses (33%), or build up savings for the future (25%)**.
Easy side hustles to get started
Not all second jobs require extensive experience or qualifications. Here are some accessible options for beginners:
No experience required:
- Focus groups (£21.10 per hour average)
- Virtual assistance (£20 per hour)
- Market research
- Food delivery driving
- Pet sitting and dog walking
Side hustles at home:
- Freelance writing and content creation
- Online tutoring
- Online surveys
- Selling products on eBay or Facebook Marketplace
- Dropshipping businesses
- Online customer service roles
Many of these roles can be started with minimal upfront investment. Research shows that 58% of side hustlers spent less than £500 setting up their ventures**, making them accessible to most people.
Freelance work: What you need to know
Five ways to supplement your income
Regional differences across the UK
The prevalence of second jobs varies significantly across different regions, often correlating with local living costs and economic conditions.
London and the South West lead the way, with 40% of workers in these regions having additional income sources**. This likely reflects both higher living costs and greater opportunities for side work in these areas.
At the other end of the scale, Wales has the lowest concentration of side hustlers at just 21%** - though this may change as economic pressures continue to build nationwide.
The employer perspective
Legally, there's nothing stopping UK workers from having a side hustle, provided it doesn't create conflicts of interest or interfere with their main job duties. Employees aren't required to inform their employers about additional income sources.
However, the rise of second jobs does present challenges for employers. Workers juggling multiple roles may experience fatigue, divided attention, or scheduling conflicts.
Some progressive companies are responding by offering better benefits, flexible working arrangements, or opportunities for skill development to retain talent - which works well for the 36% of workers prioritising flexibility and better work-life balance when considering new roles*.
Looking ahead: The future of side hustles
The side hustle economy shows no signs of slowing down. Research suggests that 47% of people might have a side hustle by the end of 2025**, representing a massive shift in employment patterns.
This trend reflects broader changes in how we view work and career security. Traditional job-for-life employment is becoming increasingly rare, and workers are taking control by diversifying their income sources.
For many, a second job isn't just about financial necessity - it's about pursuing passion projects, developing new skills, and creating additional security in an uncertain economic climate.
Side hustles contribute an estimated £70 billion to the UK economy annually****, demonstrating their significant economic impact beyond individual financial benefits.
Considering a second job?
If you're considering a second job, start by identifying your available time, existing skills, and financial goals. Whether you need quick cash or want to build a long-term business, there are opportunities suited to your situation.
Remember that success rarely happens overnight. Most thriving side hustlers started small and gradually built their additional income streams over months or years. The key is finding something sustainable that complements rather than conflicts with your primary career.
Ready to explore your options? Browse our extensive range of part-time jobs and flexible opportunities to find the perfect second job for your lifestyle and goals.
Job hunting in 2025: What are jobseekers really looking for?
Ready to find a second job? View all available jobs now
Sources
*Survey commissioned by Reed.co.uk consisting of 2,000 UK adults between 11th March – 18th March 2025.
**Standout CV, Utility Warehouse, and Cebr reports via Express.co.uk
***Adobe Express Blog
****Ink Digital Blog
