Side hustlers | Greater flexibility sees remote workers turning to second jobs for extra income

Long-term remote working arrangements are allowing many US workers to take on so-called side hustles for extra income amid increased cost of living pressures.

Remote work has become a fixture of the US workforce, with projections showing that 22% of employees, or 36.2 million people, will be working remotely by the end of 2025. Since 2020, remote job postings have tripled and now account for more than 15% of all roles across the country.

Nearly all professionals (95%) say they want at least some form of remote work, with 63% ranking it as the most important part of their job, surpassing salary. Among those already working remotely, 97% would recommend it and wish to stay remote for the remainder of their careers.

Cost of living spurs second jobs

A LendingTree study has now revealed that over half of remote employees (51%) are earning additional income beyond their main job. A further 58% have considered doing the same. Men are more likely to take on second jobs (58%) compared to women (42%). Earlier research from SideHustles.com found that 33% of remote professionals currently juggle two or more jobs.