In Palm Springs, the side hustle isn’t just a gig—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you’re trying to pad your savings, test a new business idea, or transition into full-time entrepreneurship, side hustles in Palm Springs suit every ambition. Thanks to a thriving tourism economy, a growing community of remote workers, and a deep appreciation for local services, Palm Springs offers a uniquely supportive environment for part-time ventures.
Here are the most in-demand and rewarding side hustles locals are cashing in on right now.
1. Tourism-Focused Services
What it is: With millions of annual visitors, Palm Springs offers endless opportunities to make money from tourism—without needing to run a hotel or open a storefront.
Popular roles:
- Private Tour Guides offer themed experiences like mid-century architecture walks, Joshua Tree excursions, or LGBTQ+ history tours.
- Event Support includes working weddings, festivals, or private events as a bartender, coordinator, or assistant.
- Vacation Rental Assistants help Airbnb and short-term rental owners manage turnover, cleaning, and guest communications.
Why it works in Palm Springs: Tourism is year-round here, so reliable help is always in demand—and often well paid.
2. Creative and Artistic Ventures
What it is: Turn your artistic passion into profit through local markets, online platforms, or service-based creative gigs.
Examples:
- Photography for events, couples, real estate, or fine art prints sold online.
- Handmade Goods like ceramics, candles, or jewelry sold at craft fairs and shops like the Palm Springs Vintage Market.
- Live Music or DJing at private events, restaurants, or seasonal pop-ups.
Why it works: Palm Springs embraces all things aesthetic and handcrafted—making it a great place for creatives to shine.
Palm Springs Art Museum resources for local artists
3. Freelance Digital Services
What it is: Provide services online in areas like content, design, and admin work—all from your laptop.
Examples:
- Freelance Writers create blog posts, email campaigns, or product descriptions for brands.
- Graphic Designers work on everything from logos to social content.
- Virtual Assistants handle scheduling, customer service, or inbox management for remote companies.
Why it works here: Palm Springs is remote-worker friendly, and the low overhead of digital freelancing makes it a no-brainer side hustle.
4. Health & Wellness Services
What it is: Offer fitness, mindfulness, or wellness services in a city known for self-care and holistic health.
Opportunities include:
- Personal Trainers or Yoga Instructors running outdoor classes or mobile sessions for tourists and locals.
- Massage Therapists doing home or Airbnb visits.
- Health Coaches or Nutritionists offering plans and 1:1 consultations.
Why it works: Palm Springs has a built-in audience that values well-being—making this a premium side hustle niche.
Local licensing or certification resources
5. Pet Services
What it is: Side hustles that involve caring for animals—ideal for pet lovers.
Opportunities:
- Dog Walking through services like Rover or by building your own client base.
- Pet Sitting & Boarding while people are out of town.
- Mobile Grooming or Basic Washes especially in gated communities or snowbird neighborhoods.
Why it works: Many Palm Springs residents travel frequently and have pets that need reliable care.
6. Tutoring & Teaching
What it is: Use your expertise to help students, adults, or creatives gain new skills.
Ideas include:
- Academic Tutoring in core subjects, test prep, or college admissions.
- Creative Classes like painting, sewing, photography, or writing.
- Language Lessons for tourists, immigrants, or retirees looking to travel.
Why it works: Education never goes out of style, and Palm Springs has plenty of learners—young and old.
7. Delivery & Rideshare
What it is: Put your vehicle to work through the gig economy.
Options:
- Uber or Lyft Driver—especially profitable during events or weekends.
- Food Delivery via DoorDash, Grubhub, or Uber Eats.
- Grocery Shopping or Errand Running through Instacart or TaskRabbit.
Why it works: Palm Springs is spread out, and both locals and tourists rely on these services—especially during the hot season—making it ideal for side hustles in Palm Springs that offer convenience and mobility.
8. Home & Garden Services
What it is: Use your hands and basic tools to help others maintain their homes and properties.
Popular jobs:
- Landscaping & Yard Maintenance for second-home owners or vacation rentals.
- Residential Cleaning on a one-off or recurring basis.
- Basic Repairs & Assembly for furniture, light fixtures, or rentals.
Why it works: Many residents are retirees or part-time locals who outsource these tasks consistently.
Palm Springs business licensing info
9. Ecommerce & Reselling
What it is: Buy and resell goods online or in-person for profit.
Ideas:
- Thrift Flipping clothes, home goods, and collectibles on platforms like eBay, Depop, or Poshmark.
- Dropshipping or Print-on-Demand businesses with low startup costs.
- Vintage Finds sold at pop-up markets or Instagram shops.
Why it works: Palm Springs has amazing vintage and secondhand inventory, perfect for curators and flippers.
10. Tech Support & Web Services
What it is: Help people and businesses solve tech problems or improve their digital presence.
Popular services:
- IT Support for local businesses and older residents.
- Website Design for artists, vacation rentals, or small shops.
- SEO or Social Media Help for brands looking to improve visibility.
Why it works: As more businesses move online, this expertise becomes more valuable—especially in a service-based economy like Palm Springs.
Coachella Valley business incubator or tech programs
Final Thoughts
Side hustles in Palm Springs aren’t just about earning more—it’s about building a lifestyle that works for you. Whether you’re tapping into the city’s tourism, serving your neighbors, or freelancing from your laptop, the hustle here feels different. It’s flexible, it’s fulfilling, and it’s full of potential.
Want help picking your first (or next) hustle?
Let’s build your side income strategy—reach out or explore our
