Financial independence is no longer just a goal for adults. But, let’s face it; managing to make money as a teenager can be tough—especially if you’re just 17 years old.

So, it is perfectly normal if you have a million questions racing through your mind like; how to make money quickly at 17? How can I start earning money at the age of 17? How to get money fast? Or, how much money do most 17 year olds make?

Worry less! We have spent hours on end to create this list of 40 legitimate ways to make money at 17. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking to make an extra $2000 on the side or a part time job. You will for sure, find something that works for you on this list. Read on!

How to Start Earning Money at the Age of 17?

At 17 depending on your state, you’re probably not old enough to get employment at most jobs. And, you likely do not have a lot of things under your possession to sell online. The good news is that you could still make some money for yourself. Here are 10 fun ways to start earning at 17:

1.      Become a Freelance Writer or Start Blogging

With freelance writers getting an average of $23.27/hour, freelance writing and blogging offer 17-year-olds a lucrative way to make money online. These jobs involve creating content for websites, blogs, or clients who need articles, essays, or social media posts.

To start, you will want to join platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, where you can find writing gigs that match your interests. Focus on niches like tech, lifestyle, or education to stand out.

Also, work on building a portfolio with samples of your work to stand out. To attract more clients, consistently produce high-quality content and meet deadlines.

Other than freelance writing, you could also start blogging. For this, you will need a computer, internet access, and a platform like WordPress or Blogger.

Choose a niche you’re passionate about like fashion, tech, or travel. Opportunities in blogging include earning through ads, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing.

Consistently, produce high-quality content to attract readers and boosts earnings. Now, you’re probably wondering; how much can I earn from blogging as a beginner?

Realistically, a new blogger can expect to earn $500 to $2500 per month within the first year of blogging. The good thing with blogging is that it comes with a huge potential to grow significantly as the blog gains traction.

2.      Get into Graphic Design

Think of graphic design as a creative field where you can craft visual content to communicate messages. If you’re looking to make money right now at 17, graphic design is another fun and a lucrative opportunity to consider.

To excel with graphic designing, start by familiarizing yourself with essential tools and software. For starters, you may want to familiarize with Canva as it is user-friendly and boasts an extensive template library to help you get started.

For more advanced work, Adobe Photoshop offers robust features for creating detailed designs. To build your skills, consider taking online courses or tutorials available on platforms like Udemy or YouTube.

Once confident, start showcasing your work on social media or a personal portfolio website. To find clients you can begin by using freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.

On these platforms, you can offer services like logo design, social media graphics, and custom illustrations. Networking in local business communities or offering your services to friends and family can also help you gain initial projects.

3.     Start Content Creation (YouTube, TikTok)

For many teens, content creation offers an easy way to earn money and build a personal brand. Here’s how to get started and grow your presence on YouTube or TikTok:

• Choose a Niche: Select a topic you’re passionate about, like gaming, beauty, education, or vlogs. A specific niche helps attract a dedicated audience.
• Equipment: Invest in basic gear—smartphone with a good camera, tripod, and lighting. Affordable editing software (iMovie, DaVinci Resolve) is essential.
• Content Planning: Consistent posting is key. So, plan your content calendar with engaging ideas and trends. Research keywords and hashtags to optimize reach.
• Create and Edit Content: Film high-quality videos with clear audio. Edit to keep content concise and engaging.
• Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and collaborate with other creators to expand your network.
• Monetization: Enable ads on YouTube after meeting the eligibility criteria. On TikTok, join the Creator Fund or use brand partnerships and merchandise sales.

4.      Start a Photography Hustle

For a 17-year-old, photography does not only offer a creative way to earn money. It is also lucrative and with the rise of digital platforms, you can easily sell your photos online through sites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock.

You can also take advantage of local opportunities like offering portrait sessions, event photography, or capturing special moments for families to quickly build a client base. With photography, the potential lies in its versatility.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or product photos. Each niche offers unique avenues for income. And if photography is already a hobby, turning it into a money-making venture can be particularly rewarding.

5.      Game Boosting

Game boosting can be a lucrative avenue to make money at 17 if you’re a skilled gamer. It simply involves assisting other gamers in advancing in online games by playing on their behalf.

Tasks in game boosting can range from leveling up characters to achieving higher ranks, particularly in competitive games like League of Legends, Apex Legends, and CS. In case you’re wondering where to get started with game boosting, platforms like Hero Boosting provide a marketplace for skilled players to connect with gamers seeking assistance. To get started you will need;

• A reliable internet connection
• Proficiency in popular online games, and
• Good communication skills are essential.

6.      Dropshipping

Dropshipping is an e-Commerce business model that lets you set up an online store to sell products but instead of stocking inventory yourself, you partner with suppliers who ship products directly to your customers. This means there’s no need to manage inventory or handle shipping, which make it an attractive option especially for teens who wish to make some money on the side without worrying about inventories, etc.

To get started with dropshipping here’s a quick summary of what you will need;

• A computer
• Internet connection, and
• A bit of capital for website hosting and marketing

The amount of work required to run a successful dropshipping store can vary considerably depending on the scale of the operation. However, it generally involves setting up a store, sourcing products, and driving traffic to the site. Success in dropshipping often hinges on product selection, marketing strategy, and customer service.

7.      Test Websites and Apps

Just as it sounds, this role involves assessing user interfaces, functionality, and performance to ensure a seamless user experience. As a tester, you may be required to identify bugs, suggest improvements, or provide valuable feedback to developers.

Payment for website and app testing varies but typically ranges from $10 to $20 per hour. This can add up to a substantial monthly income, especially if you can dedicate significant time to testing.

However, it’s essential to note that the availability of testing opportunities can fluctuate, something which is likely to impact potential earnings. In case you’re wondering where to find website and app testing opportunities, you’re in luck.

There are several platforms that many teenagers are currently using to make money online through website/app testing. For the start, you may want to check out platforms like UserTesting, TryMata, and Userlytics, etc which offer paid testing gigs. You may also want to check freelancing websites like Upwork and Freelancer for testing projects available.

8.      Review Songs

Song reviewing involves listening to new songs and providing constructive feedback to artists. The aim is to help these artists improve their music and gain exposure.

And the best part about this kind of work is that, there are already sites that are already offering payment for this service. Good examples include; Current Rewards and RadioEarn.

Realistic earnings from reviewing songs can vary based on the platform and your commitment. But, it generally averages between $0.10 and $0.25 per song reviewed.

If you’re focused and dedicated, you can realistically aim to make $50 to $100 per month. However, it’s important to note that the income may not be consistent and could fluctuate based on the availability of songs to review.

9.      Write and Sell Short Stories and Poems

For anyone looking to make money right now at 17, writing and selling short stories, poems, and music lyrics is something to consider especially if you have a creative flair and a passion for storytelling. This work can be a fulfilling one as it allows for self-expression while also earning income.

To sell these creations, aspiring writers can use online platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing, Smashwords, or Etsy for poems and short stories. For music lyrics, websites like Songbay or Songtradr cater to songwriters looking to sell their lyrics to musicians.

10.  Create and Sell Designs Online

Creating and selling designs is yet another creative way to make money right now at 17. Just as it sounds, this creative venture involves designing graphics for products and using print-on-demand (POD) platforms.

How It Works:

• Create a Design: Use tools like Adobe Illustrator, Canva, or Procreate to create unique graphics.
• List Your Design: Upload your design on Print on Demand websites like Redbubble, Teespring, or Creative Market.
• Sale and Fulfillment: When a customer purchases your design, the POD service prints it on products like t-shirts, mugs, or phone cases and ships them.
• Earnings: You earn a commission from each sale.

Creating and uploading designs can take a few hours a week. Success requires regular updates and marketing. So, other than the POD platforms, you can also promote your designs through social media, online communities, and SEO optimization if you have a blog or an online store.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How to make income from home?

You can make income from home by freelancing, testing websites and apps, starting a blog, selling crafts on Etsy, or using get-paid-to websites like Amazon Mturk. Use your skills and the internet to find clients and platforms that fit your talents.

• Can you become a millionaire at 17?

Yes, you can become a millionaire at 17. While it is rare, it’s possible through innovative ideas, entrepreneurial ventures, or investing early in high-growth opportunities. Building wealth typically requires time, dedication, and smart financial decisions.

• How to earn money without a job?

Earn money without a job by freelancing, selling items online, participating in surveys, becoming an affiliate marketer, or starting a small business. These options offer flexibility and the potential to grow your income over time.

• How to start investing at 17?

To start investing at 17, open a custodial account with a parent or guardian’s help. Begin with low-cost index funds or ETFs, and educate yourself on investing principles. Start small and focus on long-term growth.

• How much money do most 17 year olds make?

Most 17-year-olds make between $50 and $200 per week from part-time jobs or side hustles. Income varies based on hours worked, type of job, and individual effort. Consistency and dedication can increase earnings.

• How to get rich at 17?

Getting rich at 17 requires a combination of innovation, hard work, and financial literacy. Start a business, invest wisely, or create valuable content online. Focus on building skills and opportunities that have the potential to grow substantially.

• How can I make easy money at 17?

Make easy money at 17 by babysitting, pet sitting, doing yard work, or selling unused items online. These tasks are straightforward, flexible, and can be started with minimal investment and effort.

• How to earn money as a teenager?

Earn money as a teenager by taking on part-time jobs, offering tutoring services, creating and selling designs, or leveraging social media for content creation. Identify your strengths and find ways to monetize them.

• How can I make money on TikTok?

Make money on TikTok by growing your follower base and engaging with your audience. You can earn through brand partnerships, sponsored posts, and the TikTok Creator Fund. Consistent, creative content is key to success.

• How to get easy money?

Get easy money by doing quick gigs like online surveys, selling unwanted items, or offering simple services like dog walking. These methods require minimal effort and can provide quick, small amounts of cash.