Earn More in Connecticut: The Best Side Hustles for Hartford & New Haven

Allie Coutts
March 11, 2025
5 min read

The Best Side Hustles in Hartford & New Haven, CT: Top Ways to Earn Extra Income

Introduction

Looking for a way to earn extra cash in Hartford or New Haven, Connecticut? Whether you're saving for a major expense, looking to pay off debt, or just want to increase your financial flexibility, a side hustle can be the perfect solution. The key is finding an opportunity that aligns with your skills, interests, and schedule. From flexible gig work to online freelance opportunities, this guide explores the best side hustles in Hartford and New Haven that can help boost your income.

1. Food & Grocery Delivery Services

With busy professionals and students at Yale University and UConn Hartford, food delivery services are in high demand. Platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Instacart offer a flexible way to make money on your own schedule.

Estimated Earnings: $15–$25 per hour (including tips)

Best For: Those with a car, bike, or scooter looking for a flexible gig.

2. Rideshare Driving

Driving for Uber or Lyft is another excellent way to earn extra income in Connecticut. With high demand near Bradley International Airport, downtown New Haven, and Hartford’s business district, you can maximize earnings by working peak hours.

Estimated Earnings: $20–$35 per hour (with surge pricing)

Best For: Those with a reliable vehicle who enjoy meeting new people.

3. Renting Out a Spare Room on Airbnb

With a steady influx of visitors to New Haven for Yale University and Hartford for corporate events, renting out a spare room on Airbnb or Vrbo can generate passive income.

Estimated Earnings: $50–$200 per night (depending on location and amenities)

Best For: Homeowners or renters with extra space in high-traffic areas.

4. Freelancing Online

If you have skills in writing, graphic design, web development, or marketing, you can make money freelancing on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal. Many Connecticut-based businesses hire remote freelancers for project-based work.

Estimated Earnings: $20–$100 per hour (varies by skill and experience)

Best For: Those with marketable digital skills.

5. Tutoring & Teaching

With numerous schools and universities in Hartford and New Haven, tutoring is always in demand. Sites like Wyzant and VIPKid allow you to teach subjects like math, science, and English either in person or online.

Estimated Earnings: $25–$60 per hour

Best For: Teachers, college students, and subject-matter experts.

6. Selling Handmade Goods or Digital Products

If you’re crafty, platforms like Etsy allow you to sell handmade goods like jewelry, candles, or digital products like planners and printables. With strong local markets in both cities, selling at events and fairs can also be profitable.

Estimated Earnings: $200–$5,000 per month (depends on product and demand)

Best For: Creative individuals with a knack for crafting or design.

7. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking

Both Hartford and New Haven have a growing number of pet owners who need reliable pet care. Apps like Rover and Wag! make it easy to find pet-sitting, boarding, or dog-walking gigs.

Estimated Earnings: $15–$50 per visit (more for overnight stays)

Best For: Animal lovers with flexible schedules.

8. Photography & Videography

New Haven’s scenic parks and Hartford’s historic architecture make these cities perfect for photographers. Whether you specialize in portraits, events, or real estate photography, you can sell your services through Snappr or build a local client base through social media.

Estimated Earnings: $50–$300 per session

Best For: Skilled photographers looking for extra income.

9. Mystery Shopping

Retail and hospitality businesses in Connecticut hire mystery shoppers to evaluate their services. Websites like BestMark and Market Force offer paid assignments at local restaurants, stores, and hotels.

Estimated Earnings: $10–$50 per assignment (plus reimbursed purchases)

Best For: Detail-oriented individuals who enjoy shopping and dining out.

10. Selling Stock Photos or Videos

If you love capturing cityscapes, historic landmarks, or nature, you can sell your photos and videos on platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Getty Images.

Estimated Earnings: $0.25–$5 per download (with potential for higher earnings)

Best For: Hobbyist photographers and videographers.

Conclusion

Hartford and New Haven offer plenty of side hustle opportunities for those looking to earn extra income. Whether you prefer driving, freelancing, pet sitting, or selling products, there’s a side gig that fits your skills and schedule. Start exploring today, and you may find a profitable new venture that turns into a long-term income stream!

Written By

Allie Coutts

Content Specialist

Subscribe to the newsletter
By subscribing you agree to with our Privacy Policy.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Share