The Growing Popularity of Side Hustles
Side hustles are becoming more common among Gen Z and millennials. According to Intuit’s latest consumer survey, nearly two-thirds of people aged 18-35 have already started or plan to start a side hustle to supplement their income. Even more notably, 65% of them expect to continue their side businesses into 2025. These aren’t just short-term gigs—they reflect a significant shift in how younger generations view work, financial stability, and independence.

Why Are Young People Choosing Side Hustles?
For many, it’s about having control over their own careers and identities. Almost half (49%) of those surveyed said their main reason for starting a side hustle is the desire to be their own boss, while 42% want to follow their passions. Unlike traditional jobs, side hustles offer flexibility and the chance to build something personal and meaningful.

However, this path comes with challenges. The biggest struggle? Time. About 44% of side hustlers say they don’t have enough hours in the day to manage both their jobs and their businesses. But technology is making it easier—many young entrepreneurs are using AI and automation tools to simplify time-consuming tasks, allowing them to work more efficiently.

Why the Side Hustle Trend Is Here to Stay
Survey results highlight two key reasons why Gen Z and millennials are moving toward entrepreneurship and why this trend isn’t going away anytime soon.

A Future Built on Flexibility
There’s a saying: “The strongest people are those who can adapt.” Younger generations are proving this true by embracing change and finding ways to stay strong despite economic shifts, a competitive job market, inflation, and other challenges. They know how to adjust and move forward when needed.

Unlike previous generations who focused on long-term corporate careers, Gen Z and millennials are carving their own paths—ones that emphasize personal fulfillment, multiple income streams, and creative freedom.

Personally, in 2022, I started a side hustle that helped me pay off nearly $40,000 in student loans. Not only did it ease my financial burden, but it also gave me the freedom to pursue a competitive career with more confidence.

Thanks to digital tools, starting a business is now easier than ever. In fact, 80% of Gen Z business owners launched their businesses online or with a mobile component. From using AI-powered financial tools like QuickBooks and TurboTax to marketing with automation software like Mailchimp, young entrepreneurs are proving that with the right resources and mindset, building a business can be both sustainable and scalable.

The Power of Social Media in Business Growth
Social media plays a major role in today’s side hustle movement. According to the survey, 44% of respondents rely on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn as their main marketing tools, and 32% say social media is the biggest reason for their business success. These platforms make entrepreneurship more accessible, giving anyone with a phone, determination, and a vision the opportunity to start a business.

Beyond just marketing, social media helps entrepreneurs grow their brands and reach new clients. Unlike past generations, who had to rely on word-of-mouth or expensive advertising, today’s side hustlers can find customers with just a few taps on a screen.

A cultural shift is happening online. Business owners, content creators, and freelancers are using social media to connect with their audiences and grow their businesses—whenever and wherever they choose to work.

The Future of Side Hustles
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, side hustles will continue to be a major part of the workforce. With advancing technology and changing work expectations, more people will turn to entrepreneurship for financial and personal growth.

The fear of failure is low, too. Only 3% of respondents reported that their side hustle didn’t work out, and most who faced setbacks were able to adjust quickly. On average, profitability is reached within three to six months, showing that side hustles can bring fast returns. Younger generations are overcoming challenges and proving that work doesn’t have to follow the traditional 9-to-5 model.

As side hustles evolve into full-fledged businesses, it’s clear that Gen Z and millennials are shaping the future of work. They’re not just participating in the gig economy—they’re leading it. With digital tools, a strong entrepreneurial mindset, and a desire for independence, they are rewriting the rules of success. The world is taking notice.

This isn’t just about earning extra money—it’s about creating a new approach to work that will shape the workforce for years to come.

Survey Methodology:
Intuit surveyed 1,000 respondents aged 18-35 in November 2024 using Pollfish.

Key Survey Findings:

• Strong Participation in Side Hustles:
  • 66% of Gen Z and millennials have or plan to start a side hustle.
  • 65% expect to continue in 2025.
• Main Motivations:
  • 49% want to be their own boss.
  • 42% want to pursue their passions.
• The Role of Social Media:
  • 44% use social media as their primary marketing tool.
  • 32% say social media is the key to their business success.
• Success and Challenges:
  • Only 3% report failing at their side hustle.
  • Most achieve profitability within 3-6 months.
  • 44% say time management is their biggest challenge.
  • Many use AI and automation to manage their workload.
• Shifting Work Priorities:
  • Gen Z and millennials prioritize flexibility, creativity, and autonomy over traditional corporate jobs.
  • Entrepreneurship provides a personal, scalable path to success.
• Future Outlook:
  • The side hustle trend is expected to grow.
  • Digital tools are making entrepreneurship easier and more sustainable.

The rise of side hustles marks a new era of work, and Gen Z and millennials are at the forefront of this transformation.