Arizona is more than desert landscapes and sunshine—it's also a hotspot for entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're in bustling Phoenix, scenic Sedona, or a quiet desert town, there are countless ways to earn extra income on the side. The rise of remote work, gig apps, and local demand for services has made side hustles in Arizona more accessible than ever.
In this guide, we’ll explore profitable and flexible side hustles tailored to Arizonans—covering everything from rideshare driving in metro areas to unique, Arizona-specific gigs like Airbnb hosting in Flagstaff or tour guiding near the Grand Canyon.
Arizona's economy is growing rapidly, with job growth outpacing the national average (AZ Commerce). But even with economic growth, the cost of living—especially in cities like Phoenix and Tucson—is climbing. A side hustle offers:
According to Statista, over 50 million Americans had a side hustle in 2023—and that number keeps growing.
Cities like Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson are prime markets for Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Instacart. The warm weather means year-round activity, and Arizona’s sprawling suburbs ensure steady demand.
Best For: People with a reliable vehicle who enjoy driving
Average Earnings: $15–$25/hour depending on location and tips
🛠️ Tip: Consider signing up for multiple apps to maximize your earning potential.
Arizona’s art scene is thriving, with a love for Southwest-style crafts, handmade jewelry, pottery, and more. If you're creative, consider selling online via Etsy or setting up a booth at local markets like the Phoenix Public Market or 4th Avenue Street Fair in Tucson.
Best For: Creatives, crafters, and artists
Average Earnings: Varies widely; $100–$1,000+/month possible with consistent sales
Arizona is a tourist magnet. Whether it’s hiking in Sedona, golfing in Scottsdale, or sightseeing in the Grand Canyon, demand for short-term rentals is high. If you have a spare room or guesthouse, listing on Airbnb or Vrbo can generate serious income.
Best For: Homeowners or renters with extra space
Average Earnings: $1,000–$3,000+/month depending on location and season
📍 Top Cities for Airbnb in AZ: Flagstaff, Sedona, Scottsdale, and Tucson
Arizona residents are taking advantage of reselling platforms. If you have a truck or storage space, flipping furniture or returned items for profit is a lucrative side hustle. You can find resale opportunities from big-box retailers or local clearance sales.
Best For: People with a truck or SUV and some garage/storage space
Average Earnings: $500–$2,000+/month based on effort and availability
With the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, and Northern Arizona University nearby, there's consistent demand for both in-person and virtual tutoring. Sites like Wyzant or Outschool make it easy to get started.
Best For: College students, teachers, or subject experts
Average Earnings: $20–$60/hour depending on experience
If you live near Sedona, the Grand Canyon, or the Superstition Mountains, you can monetize your knowledge of the outdoors. Offer hiking tours, jeep rides, or guided photo trips. Platforms like Airbnb Experiences are great places to list your service.
Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and locals with tourism knowledge
Average Earnings: $50–$200 per experience
Arizona pet owners love their animals, and many need help when they travel. Sign up on Rover or Wag! to get started with pet sitting or dog walking.
Best For: Animal lovers with a flexible schedule
Average Earnings: $15–$40 per visit or walk
Working remotely from Arizona is easier than ever. If you have digital skills—copywriting, social media management, data entry, or graphic design—you can find freelance gigs on Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.
Best For: People with marketable digital or creative skills
Average Earnings: $20–$100/hour depending on niche and experience
Arizona notaries can charge up to $10 per signature, and loan signing agents (who handle mortgage paperwork) can make $75–$200 per appointment. You'll need a commission from the Arizona Secretary of State and possibly additional certifications.
Best For: Organized individuals with reliable transportation
Average Earnings: $500–$4,000/month part-time
Arizonans love their cars—and hate the dust. Mobile detailing services are in demand, especially in the Phoenix metro area. With a few supplies and a strong work ethic, you can build a local client base fast.
Best For: Hands-on workers and entrepreneurs
Average Earnings: $50–$150 per vehicle
The best side hustle in Arizona is the one that fits your schedule, skills, and lifestyle. Whether you're flipping furniture in your garage, guiding tourists through Sedona’s red rocks, or making grocery deliveries in Mesa, side hustling can open up real financial freedom.
Test a few options. Stick with what feels rewarding. And remember, even small earnings can make a big difference over time.
