5 SIDE HUSTLES TO COMBAT SA'S COST-OF-LIVING

South Africa is going through the most... the price of petrol is a roller coaster, Eskom is remixing load-shedding stages, and that pothole down the street is still there. Working one job doesn’t always pay off.

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More than a quarter of the average salary is being spent on groceries (28,9%) and rent is second on the list (25,3%) – and this doesn’t include utilities like water and electricity. Expenses are running at an all-time high, while our incomes are running at an all-time low. It’s time to consider a side hustle.

1. TAKE SURVEYS
For a side hustle you can do from your couch, participating in online surveys via sites like Ovatoyou may be a good choice (check out Paidfromsurveys.com for a full list). You will need a smartphone and internet connection. Usually, the only requirement is to be over 18 years old.

2. SNEAKER CLEANING & CUSTOMISING
If you’re a sneakerhead or have an artistic hand, there are many people who love the look of fresh kicks but are too lazy to do the job themselves – which is where you come in. Certain sneakers, like the popular Nike Air Force 1, are the perfect models.

They can be customised with acrylic leather paint, markers, rhinestones, fabric and more. There are endless ways to take sneakers to new, colourful heights! Plus, you will gain lots of traction on social media. Who doesn’t love a good TikTok video?

3. WRITING & EDITING
If you enjoy writing, reading, graphic design or are an admin whizz, you can do some freelance work in your area of expertise or interest. Try freelance writing or designing (charts, menus, wedding invites, small-business branding) or, if you have strong language skills, proofreading other writer’s projects.

Transcription – typing what’s said in audio or video recordings – is another option and, if you’re good at sorting, filing and compiling, you can help job seekers create their ideal CV and portfolios.

4. E-HAILING
E-hailing is perfect for people who don’t mind a bit of traffic, don’t have a tendency for road rage and want to provide a comfortable driving experience to passengers. South African drivers typically make more than R700 a day and can sign up to drive for a variety of companies, the big three being Uber, Bolt and inDrive.

Note that you’ll need a valid public driving permit. If you’re not interested in lifting others, then delivering food and groceries is an alternative. You could seek out a small local business that needs this kind of help, or check out the big names: Uber Eats, Mr D, Checkers Sixty60, Pick n Pay ASAP! and Woolies Dash. In most cases, you can just sign up and get going. You will need a driver’s licence and a reliable car or scooter.

5. NAIL TECHNICIAN
If you have an artistic streak and a passion for manicures, give this one a whirl. You already know that nail technicians have more tools than you can count – what many people don’t realise is that the start-up kit can be quite affordable, with some available for purchase online costing less than R1 000.


Doing nails is a fun way of generating income because every client has different preferences for shape, length and art. Nail-art trends are ever changing – from nude colours with swirl designs to bold cerise pink with giant Hello Kitty nail charms. Start with friends and family and see where it goes.

Words by: Sahrah Enous
Photograph: Gallo/Getty Images. Illustrations: Freepik