Let’s be real—when you type “how to make money online” into Google, you’re going to see the same thing done repeatedly and repeatedly: dropshipping, surveys, affiliate marketing. zzz.
Yes, those work, but they’re just so saturated. What if you’re just entering the workforce and you don’t want to have to try to be some sort of online celebrity or spend hours cold pitching on LinkedIn?
Here are 10 off-grid ways to make money online that are not as popular as they should be but actually do work—especially if you’re in the market for low-competition, newbie-friendly prospects in 2025.
Let’s get into it.
1. Make Money in Subreddits (Yes, Reddit!)
Reddit isn’t just about scrolling through memes or debating strangers. Some subreddits will even compensate you for completing little tasks.
Consider communities like r/BeerMoney or r/SlaveLabour—people share simple jobs like writing, research, site testing, or graphic design.
It’s not a get-rich-quick plan, but it’s a good way to earn a little bit of extra cash (especially if you’re just starting out). And it can open up more freelance opportunities in the future too.
2. Curate Amazon Idea Lists as an Influencer
If you are a member of the Amazon Influencer Program, you can build Idea Lists—essentially, product ideas based on themes. For instance, “Best Home Office Setup for Small Spaces” or “Budget-Friendly Travel Essentials.”
Every time a person purchases something from your list, you earn a commission. And the best part is—you don’t have to have a million followers. You can send traffic from Pinterest, private Facebook groups, or even Reddit.
SEO Tip: Use niche keywords like “home gym under $100” or “kitchen tools for minimalists” to allow people to find your lists.
3. Sell Niche Digital Planners on Etsy
Digital planners are a massive trend on Etsy, but you don’t need to compete with everyone selling plain, generic weekly templates. Instead, niche into hyper-niche planners like
ADHD daily task logs
Wedding planning checklists
Social media content calendars
University examination preparation schedules
Create them as a design in Canva or use Notion, and include keywords in it like “printable ADHD planner” or “custom wedding countdown template.” You can even sell bundles or editable ones for a high price.
4. Host Paid Study Sessions on Zoom
If you happen to be an expert on a topic—math, coding, nursing, or productivity—mini paid study groups can be conducted over Zoom.
Charge $5 to $15 per person for a 45-minute session. It’s suitable for students or professionals who take exams or certifications.
Tools you’ll need? Use Zoom + Calendly + Stripe or PayPal for booking and payment.
And no, you don’t need to be a trained teacher. You just need to be able to explain it and keep the sessions structured.
5. Flip AI-Generated Logos on Fiverr or Etsy
Logo flipping does sound pretty suspicious, though listen to my offer—it’s legit.
Software applications like Looka, Brandmark, and Canva allow you to create logo templates in minutes. You can offer them as instant download logo kits or offer light customization services.
Niche it down: “Minimalist logo pack for Etsy sellers” or “Luxury brand logos for skincare startups.”
Sell them on Fiverr, Etsy, or Creative Market, and get paid while sleeping. 6. Make Money as a Facebook Group Moderator
Managing Facebook groups takes time—and a lot of group owners just don’t have it.
If you’ve ever assisted in running a community or you’re just a naturally gifted people organizer (politely, naturally, of course), you can provide moderation services. Some of your duties will include approving posts, monitoring comments, and keeping the community active.
Monthly fee (e.g., $100–$300 based on size and participation level). Begin by volunteering to assist in a group you already enjoy and then see where it goes.
7. Turn Pinterest Boards Into Affiliate Links
Pinterest is so much more than mood boards—it’s a search engine. Yes, that means you can earn affiliate cash by pinning helpful product links.
You don’t have to have a blog. Just sign up for affiliate programs (Amazon, LTK, ShareASale), make nice pins, and pin them directly onto the products.
Niche boards work best—like “Small Apartment Decor,” “Work-from-Home Desk Setup,” or “Gifts for Book Lovers.”
Pro Tip: Include Pinterest keywords in your pin titles and descriptions so that you can appear in search.
8. Sell AI Prompt Packs on Gumroad or Etsy
AI programs like ChatGPT and Midjourney are popular—but no one knows how to utilize them to achieve the best outcomes.
That’s where you come in. You can create ready-to-use packs for particular groups of individuals, like
ChatGPT questions small business owners.
Midjourney prompts for t-shirt designs
Blogging prompts for content creation
Sell them as a PDF or a Notion file on Gumroad, Etsy, or your own website. Add some value to it with a quick how-to guide or examples of how it can be applied.
9. Ghostwrite LinkedIn or Reddit Posts
Most professionals want to create their own personal brand but don’t have time (or writing skills). If you’re adept at writing in an informal yet clever tone, offer ghostwriting services.
You can create LinkedIn posts, Reddit AMAs, or Twitter/X threads. Start with a trial post for free or by emphasizing samples. Bill per post or offer packages monthly.
Where to find clients: Experiment with selling on LinkedIn, Reddit, or Twitter. There are even successful ones with cold email or Substack groups.
10. Sell “No Face” Audio Courses
Don’t like being on camera? Don’t have to. Audio lectures are on the rise, particularly in the productivity, personal development, and business markets.
You can make simple lessons on your phone (or even use AI voice software) and sell them on platforms like Gumroad, Podia, or Udemy.
Problems can be as mundane as
💬 Final Thoughts
“How to Use ChatGPT with Freelance Clients” “Morning Routines That Actually Work” Make it concise, actionable, and helpful. Last Words There are simply only so many real ways to earn money online that aren’t about trying to go viral or quitting your job. You can start online income as a part-time job, and if you’re successful, then shift it into full-time. These lesser-known money-making concepts online are perfect if you’re looking for something a bit more realistic, low-key, and actually doable—especially in 2025. Choose one that you’re interested in or talented at and try it. Even a small win (i.e., your first $10 online) can give you the motivation to create something bigger.