USA 
United Kingdom
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.
This trend is being driven in part by economic pressure. As living costs rise, many are turning to secondary roles to supplement their income. The structure of remote work makes it easier to manage multiple positions without a noticeable dip in output. Workers also save an average of $7,000 annually by eliminating commuting and office-related expenses, giving them more freedom to pursue other opportunities.
HR weighs risks of divided focus
While remote work is known to improve retention - some 76% of employees say flexibility impacts their decision to stay - employers remain wary of the growing side job trend. Concerns include a potential decline in productivity, risks of dishonesty, and policy violations. Employers warn that if these practices persist, they could undermine remote work arrangements and lead to a return to traditional office requirements.
Some organizations are already seeing side effects. Burnout is common, with 69% of remote employees reporting symptoms. A lack of boundaries between home and work contributes to the problem. Only 10% of companies are helping with internet expenses, and remote workers are 35% more likely to be laid off during cutbacks, adding to their stress.
For remote models to succeed long-term, companies and HR leaders will need to address policy clarity, worker wellbeing, and how to manage employees in a manner that it is not overly intrusive, overbearing or mistrustful.
