Being 14 years old can feel like a unique phase in life, filled with plenty of opportunities and exciting adventures. However, it’s also the perfect age to start learning about responsibility, work ethics, and, of course, how to make some extra cash. Whether you’re saving up for a new phone, looking to fund your hobbies, or just want a bit more spending money, there are plenty of ways to start earning money at 14. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best jobs for 14-year-olds to make money while balancing the realities of school, chores, and hanging out with friends.
Babysitter
Parents are always looking for reliable, responsible sitters to watch over their young ones, especially on weekends or during evenings when they need some time off. As a 14-year-old, you can offer babysitting services to family friends or neighbors.
When I was around 14, I started babysitting for a neighbor, and it was one of the most rewarding jobs I could have had. The money was decent, and I learned how to be patient and responsible and even handle some minor emergencies. If you’re looking to get started, make sure to get a basic babysitting certification and always communicate clearly with the parents about your experience and comfort level.
Dishwasher
Working as a dishwasher is another great job for 14-year-olds, especially if you’re interested in the food service industry but not yet old enough to work as a server or cook. Many local restaurants, cafés, or coffee shops may be willing to hire young workers to help out in the kitchen.
Dishwashing isn’t the most glamorous job, but it’s steady, and the tips can be great if you work in a busy establishment. Plus, it offers flexibility, which is perfect for a 14-year-old juggling school and extracurriculars. Be prepared to work long hours on weekends or during lunch and dinner rushes.
Golf Caddy
If they live close to a golf course, a 14-year-old can have a great career as a golf caddy. Golf courses frequently seek out younger employees to assist with bagging players, giving course advice, and even cleaning equipment after a round. In addition to giving tips, being a golf caddy teaches important life lessons like responsibility and customer service. It also helps you stay active, walking around the course for hours and interacting with people from different walks of life.
Pet Sitter
Many families rely heavily on their pets; when their owners are away, they need someone they can trust to look after their animals. Here’s where you can help! Pet sitting for friends, family, or even online can be profitable for 14-year-olds. Dogs can be fed, walked, or just spent time with. In addition to being enjoyable for animal lovers, this job is an excellent way to develop responsibility. It’s also incredibly satisfying to earn money while interacting with cute animals.
Online Gaming Streaming
Platforms like Twitch and YouTube allow gamers to stream their gameplay, gain followers, and earn money from ads, sponsorships, and donations. Many successful streamers started at a young age, and while it can take time to build a dedicated following, it can be an incredibly rewarding job that gives you a platform to showcase your skills.
While I’m not a gamer, I know a friend who started streaming at 14, playing video games late into the night while interacting with his audience. Over time, he turned his hobby into a serious revenue stream. It’s not an instant thing, but you can make money doing what you love with consistent effort.
Create Printables
These are digital files that people can download and print at home, such as planners, calendars, to-do lists, and even decorative artwork. Creators can sell these products on websites such as Creative Market or Etsy. You can make printables in your free time, and it doesn’t require a significant financial commitment. The best thing about this side business is that it can generate passive income. Your products can sell themselves without much more work once you’ve created them.
Junior Camp Counselor
If you love spending time outdoors and working with younger kids, becoming a junior camp counselor could be ideal. Many summer camps hire teens to help supervise younger campers, lead activities, or assist with meal preparation and cleanup. This job is fantastic because it teaches leadership skills, problem-solving, and how to work as part of a team.
As a junior counselor, you’ll gain valuable experience that can help you develop skills for future customer service, education, or management roles. It’s also a great way to spend your summer, especially if you enjoy being active and outside.
Voice-Over Artist
Voice-over work might seem like something only adults can do, but the reality is that there’s a growing demand for voice talent in everything from commercials to animated movies, online tutorials, and video games. You could start building a portfolio if you’ve got a good voice and some basic recording equipment. Websites like Fiverr or Voices.com allow you to offer your services to clients looking for voice talent.
It’s a fantastic opportunity for creative teens who love performing and want to make money in an artistic field. Plus, voice-over work can be done on your own time, making it flexible around school schedules.
How to Hustle at 14?
Making money at 14 isn’t just about the job itself; it’s about the mindset. The earlier you start developing a “hustle” mentality, the better. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:
- Start with family and friends. They are your most trustworthy initial customers, and they will probably help you in your business endeavours, whether you’re selling handmade goods, taking care of the lawn, or babysitting.
- Use the power of social media: You can advertise your services, which range from pet sitting to selling printables, on social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok. This is a fantastic, low-cost method of growing your clientele.
- Create a routine: It can be difficult to balance work and school, so having a schedule is essential. Find out how many hours a week you can work and still manage to balance your academic and social commitments.
- Save your earnings: Learning how to manage your money is never too early. Consider saving a portion of what you make for long-term goals, whether that’s a car, college savings, or even a future business idea.
Conclusion
At 14, the world is your oyster for making money. Whether you’re interested in working with kids or animals or creating art, there are plenty of options to explore. Starting early gives you valuable skills and financial habits that will last a lifetime. Remember, the best job for you is the one that aligns with your interests, strengths, and the time you can dedicate to it. So, whether you’re slinging burgers at a local restaurant, designing digital products, or becoming a golf caddy, there’s no shortage of opportunities to make money and gain valuable experience.
ALSO READ: What are the Best Slow-Paced Jobs?
FAQs
Start by asking your family, friends, and neighbors. They’re a great source of babysitting, pet sitting, or yard work leads. You can also check community boards or local job sites for teen-friendly positions.
Yes, labor laws govern how many hours you can work and the types of jobs you can have. Be sure to check the regulations in your area, as they vary.
Earnings depend on the job, but many 14-year-olds make between $8 and $15 an hour, especially if they work part-time or offer specialized services like tutoring or pet sitting.
