Rising Costs Push Americans to Side Hustles
As the cost of living continues to climb in 2025, a growing number of Americans are finding that a single job is no longer sufficient to cover their expenses. Surveys conducted this year reveal a stark reality: over 40% of U.S. adults now rely on side hustles or second jobs to make ends meet. A recent LendingTree survey highlighted that nearly 40% of Americans have taken on additional income sources, with 61% of those individuals stating they could not afford their current lifestyle without this extra money.
This trend is driven by persistent economic pressures, including inflation and rising costs for essentials like housing, groceries, and healthcare. A report from The Epoch Times noted that the traditional '9-to-5' work routine is being reshaped as more people seek alternative ways to supplement their income. The financial strain is particularly acute for younger generations, with Millennials and Gen Zers often leading the charge in side hustle participation due to economic uncertainty and stagnant wages from primary jobs.
Survey Insights: A Deepening Reliance on Extra Income
Recent data paints a clear picture of the side hustle boom. According to a Workforce Monitor survey by the American Staffing Association, conducted with The Harris Poll, more than six in ten employed U.S. adults are likely to pursue a second job or side hustle within the next year. This reflects a broader anxiety about job stability and financial security, as many doubt the sufficiency of their primary income in the face of ongoing economic challenges.
Additional surveys underscore the urgency of this shift. A LendingTree report from earlier this year found that the motivation for side hustles often stems from necessity rather than passion. For many, these gigs—ranging from freelance work to ride-sharing and online sales—are critical lifelines. In Colorado, for instance, CBS Colorado reported that around one-third of residents are engaged in side hustles to combat rising costs, a trend mirrored nationwide.
Future Outlook: Will Side Hustles Become the Norm?
Looking ahead, the reliance on side hustles shows no signs of abating as economic conditions remain uncertain. With inflation rates still impacting household budgets—despite a drop from a peak of 9.1% in 2022 to between 3% and 4% in 2024—high prices continue to squeeze consumers. Posts found on X reflect a shared sentiment among users, with many expressing frustration over the need to juggle multiple income streams just to stay afloat.
The long-term implications of this shift are significant. As more Americans adapt to a multi-job lifestyle, questions arise about work-life balance, job security, and the evolving nature of employment. While side hustles provide immediate financial relief for many, they also highlight deeper systemic issues regarding wage growth and affordability that may require broader policy attention in the years to come.