Best Side Hustles in Utah: Your Guide to Earning Extra Income

Allie Coutts
January 22, 2025
5 min read

Best Side Hustles in Utah: Your Guide to Earning Extra Income

Utah is not only known for its stunning landscapes and thriving economy but also for its entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're looking to make some extra cash on the weekends or launch a small business, the Beehive State offers countless opportunities for lucrative side hustles. Let’s dive into some of the best options available, tailored to Utah’s unique lifestyle and market trends.

1. Airbnb Hosting: Capitalize on Utah’s Tourism Boom

With national parks like Zion and Arches attracting millions of visitors every year, Utah’s tourism industry is thriving. If you have extra space in your home or own a second property, becoming an Airbnb host could be a game-changer.

Why It’s Great:

  • Utah’s high tourism demand means consistent bookings.
  • Opportunities to cater to ski tourists in Park City and hikers in Moab.
  • Flexible hosting options (rent out a room, entire home, or seasonal availability).

According to Airbnb statistics, Utah hosts earn an average of $3,000 per month, with earnings peaking during ski season and summer months.

2. Freelance Photography: Capture Utah’s Beauty

Utah is a dreamland for photographers. With iconic landscapes and growing demand for family portraits, wedding shoots, and real estate photography, freelancing in this field can be both creative and lucrative.

Why It’s Great:

  • High demand for photographers in scenic locations like Antelope Island and Bryce Canyon.
  • Utah’s vibrant wedding industry offers steady opportunities.
  • You can start small with minimal equipment and scale up.

Websites like Fiverr or Thumbtack can help you market your services.

3. Teaching or Tutoring: Leverage Your Expertise

If you’re skilled in a particular subject or hobby, tutoring can be an excellent way to earn extra income. Utah’s family-focused communities place a high value on education, creating a steady demand for tutors in academics, music, and more.

Popular Options:

  • Academic tutoring for K-12 students.
  • Music lessons (piano, violin, and guitar are especially popular).
  • Fitness coaching, such as yoga or personal training.

Platforms like Wyzant and TakeLessons can connect you with local clients.

4. Delivery Driving: Make Money on the Move

With the rise of gig apps, delivery driving remains one of the most accessible side hustles. In Utah, services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart thrive thanks to the state’s growing suburban and urban areas.

Why It’s Great:

  • Flexible schedules perfect for students and parents.
  • High earnings during peak times (lunch and dinner).
  • Opportunities in college towns like Salt Lake City and Logan.

For tips on maximizing your earnings, check out DoorDash’s guide.

5. Handmade Crafts: Tap Into Utah’s DIY Culture

Utahns love supporting local artisans, making this a great market for handmade goods. Whether you’re into crafting jewelry, woodworking, or sewing, there’s a strong demand for unique, high-quality items.

Where to Sell:

  • Farmers' markets in Salt Lake City, Ogden, and St. George.
  • Online platforms like Etsy.
  • Seasonal craft fairs, especially around the holidays.

Utah’s focus on community and local businesses makes this an especially rewarding hustle.

6. Social Media Management: Help Small Businesses Thrive

Many small businesses in Utah struggle to manage their social media presence. If you have a knack for creating engaging content and understanding analytics, offering social media management services can be highly profitable.

Why It’s Great:

  • Utah’s small businesses value affordable, local expertise.
  • Work remotely and on your own schedule.
  • Opportunity to specialize in specific industries like outdoor gear or family services.

Learn more about how to get started on platforms like HubSpot.

7. Outdoor Guiding: Share Your Love of Adventure

With Utah’s unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities, becoming an adventure guide is a natural fit for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether it’s rock climbing, hiking, or river rafting, this side hustle is perfect for those who love sharing their passion for the outdoors.

Why It’s Great:

  • High demand during tourist seasons.
  • You can work for established companies or start your own guiding service.
  • Meet people from all over the world while doing what you love.

Check out guiding certifications and opportunities through REI’s outdoor programs.

8. Real Estate Investing: Build Long-Term Wealth

Utah’s booming housing market makes real estate investing an attractive option. Whether it’s flipping houses, managing rentals, or investing in vacation properties, this side hustle offers both short-term income and long-term wealth-building potential.

Why It’s Great:

  • Utah’s population growth ensures a strong housing demand.
  • Opportunities for passive income through rentals.
  • Tax benefits and equity growth.

For tips, visit BiggerPockets.

9. Tech Side Hustles: Utah’s Silicon Slopes Advantage

Utah’s growing tech scene provides ample opportunities for freelance work in areas like coding, web development, and graphic design. If you have technical skills, you can tap into this thriving industry while enjoying the flexibility of freelance gigs.

Popular Platforms:

With tech companies continuing to expand in Utah’s Silicon Slopes, the demand for skilled freelancers is only increasing.

Final Thoughts

Utah offers an incredible variety of side hustle opportunities, from flexible gig work to entrepreneurial ventures. Whether you’re looking to make a little extra cash or build a sustainable secondary income stream, there’s something here for everyone. Start small, leverage local resources, and take advantage of Utah’s unique economic landscape to make your side hustle a success.

Written By

Allie Coutts

Content Specialist

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