Archive · 19 Jun 2025
Side Hustles Surge: Americans Brace for Economic Uncertainty
Many Americans are taking on extra jobs, like having a 'side hustle', because they're worried about the economy.
This is similar to what happened during past recessions.
Younger people, who have lived through economic difficulties, are especially likely to have these extra jobs.
People are choosing side jobs that are reliable, like cleaning or childcare, rather than following their hobbies.
They're doing this to make extra money and to feel secure in case their main job has problems.
Even colleges are preparing students for a future where having more than one job might be common.
The share of Americans with multiple jobs is rising, resembling levels seen during the early 2000s recession.
Millennials and Gen Z, often scarred by previous economic downturns, are increasingly likely to hold side hustles.
People are opting for practical, reliable side hustles, driven by necessity, not just passion.
Side hustles are seen as a financial safety net to prepare for potential economic uncertainty.
Universities are adjusting to a world where multiple jobs are becoming the norm.
- Who
- Working Americans, especially millennials and Gen Z.
- What
- Increase in the number of Americans holding multiple jobs.
- When
- The first five months of the year.
- Where
- Across the United States.
- Why
- Driven by economic uncertainty and the desire for financial security.
- Multiple Job Holders
- 5.3% to 5.5% of working Americans
- Millennial/Gen Z Side Hustle Rate
- Roughly 40%
- Marie Incontrera's Primary Job
- Owner of a public-relations agency
- Marie Incontrera's Side Hustle
- Cleaning business
- Dyna Krigbaum's Primary Job
- Development Coordinator at a real-estate firm
- Dyna Krigbaum's Side Hustle
- Nannying