You don’t need to stick to a boring 9-to-5 or take on a second job to boost your income.
Take it from me. When I found myself with some unexpected expenses a few years back, I started looking around my house for items I could sell.
I began with selling some old electronics and clothes I no longer wore. They sold quickly, and I made a decent amount of money.
This sparked an idea: what if I could turn this into a more consistent income stream?
I started exploring other selling avenues. I tapped into my love for crafting and began making handmade jewelry.
At first, I sold to friends and family, but soon I expanded to online marketplaces. The orders started rolling in, and I realized I was onto something.
Now, if you’re ready to begin your journey to financial freedom, let’s explore the most profitable things you can sell in this comprehensive blog!
1. Art
Got a creative streak? You can use your artistic talents to earn extra income.
Whether you’re into painting, photography, or digital design, there’s a market for your creations.
Platforms like Etsy and Society6 make it easy to sell your artwork online. You can offer original pieces, prints, or even have your designs printed on merchandise like t-shirts and mugs.
But don’t limit yourself to just online sales. Local craft fairs and galleries can be great venues to showcase and sell your work.
Plus, you get the added benefit of connecting with your community and fellow artists.
Remember, pricing your art can be tricky. Research similar pieces in your niche and don’t undersell yourself. Your time and talent are valuable!
If you want more profitable ideas aside from selling art, check out this guide on the 29 best side hustles for artists to earn extra money!
2. Outgrown Baby Gear
As a parent, I’ve personally experienced the whirlwind of baby gear that comes (and goes) with raising little ones. It’s amazing how quickly they outgrow everything!
I remember when my daughter outgrew her crib after what felt like mere months. Instead of letting it gather dust in the attic, I decided to sell it.
Not only did I make a tidy sum, but I also freed up valuable storage space.
Websites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are great for selling larger items like cribs, strollers, and high chairs locally.
For smaller items like clothes and toys, consider apps like Kidizen or Mercari.
When selling baby gear, safety is paramount. Always check for recalls before listing an item. And be honest about any wear and tear – most parents understand that used items won’t be pristine.
3. Used Books
Your literary collection could be a source of extra cash. While you might not get rich selling old paperbacks, every little bit counts.
Platforms like BookScouter help you compare buyback prices from different vendors.
Just enter the ISBN, and you’ll see offers from various buyers. It’s a quick way to turn your unwanted books into cash.
For rare or collectible books, consider selling them on specialized platforms like AbeBooks.
You might be surprised at what some collectors are willing to pay for first editions or out-of-print titles.
Don’t forget about textbooks! If you have recent editions of college textbooks, you could make a decent amount.
According to BookScouter, some textbooks can fetch over $100, depending on the subject and edition.
4. Old Clothes
Time for a closet cleanout? Those clothes you no longer wear could be someone else’s treasure.
And with the rise of secondhand fashion, there’s never been a better time to sell your old duds.
For designer and brand-name items, Poshmark is a popular choice. They take a 20% commission on sales over $15, but the platform’s social features can help you reach a wide audience.
If you prefer a more hands-off approach, try ThredUp. They send you a bag, you fill it with clothes, and they handle the rest.
Don’t overlook local consignment shops either. While they typically offer lower payouts than selling directly to buyers, they handle all the work of displaying and selling your items.
5. Handmade Crafts
If you’re handy with a needle and thread, a paintbrush, or any other craft tools, you could turn your hobby into a profitable side hustle.
Etsy is the go-to platform for selling handmade items, with over 90 million active buyers worldwide. Popular categories include jewelry, home decor, and personalized gifts.
When pricing your handmade items, remember to factor in not just materials, but also your time and skill.
Many crafters use a formula like (Materials + Labor) x 2 = Wholesale Price, then double the wholesale price for retail.
Consider offering customization options, too. Personalized items often command higher prices and can help set your shop apart from mass-produced alternatives.
6. Old Electronics
In our tech-driven world, many of us have old gadgets gathering dust. If you are wise, you can turn them into cash.
For smartphones, laptops, and tablets, check out Gazelle or Decluttr. These sites make it easy to get a quote for your device and ship it off for free.
If you’re selling a newer model in good condition, you might get more by selling directly to a buyer through platforms like Swappa. Just be sure to wipe off all personal data on your device before selling!
Don’t forget about older electronics. Retro gaming consoles, for instance, can be surprisingly valuable.
A working Nintendo 64 could fetch around $100, while rarer consoles might go for much more.
7. Jewelry
Selling jewelry can be a lucrative venture, especially if you have designer or vintage pieces.
Platforms like Worthy specialize in high-end jewelry sales. They handle everything from photography to auction management, making it easy for you to get top dollar for your gems.
Meanwhile, for more modest pieces, consider RealReal or even local pawn shops.
When selling jewelry, authenticity is key. If you have certificates for your pieces, make sure to include them.
Don’t have paperwork? No worries! Many buyers offer authentication services.
8. Unused Gift Cards
Who hasn’t received a gift card for a store they never shop at? I know I have! Last Christmas, I got a $50 card for a sporting goods store.
The problem is, I’m about as athletic as a sloth.
Instead of letting it gather dust in my wallet, I decided to sell it. Turns out, there’s a whole market for unwanted gift cards! I used CardCash and got $45 for my $50 card.
If you’ve got gift cards lying around, consider selling them on platforms like CardCash or Raise.
You won’t get the full face value, but it’s better than having unused plastic taking up space.
Just be sure to check the balance before listing. Most sites have penalties for selling cards with incorrect balances.
And remember, electronic gift cards often sell faster than physical ones.
9. Design Skills
Businesses are always in need of good design work and if you have an eye for aesthetics, this could be your source of extra income.
Platforms like 99designs let you participate in design contests. Win, and you could pocket a nice sum.
For instance, logo design contests often offer prizes ranging from $300 to $1,500.
If contests aren’t your thing, consider becoming a seller on Fiverr. You can offer everything from social media graphics to book covers.
Many designers on Fiverr charge $50-$100 for a basic logo design, with prices going up for more complex projects.
Don’t forget about print-on-demand services like Redbubble. Upload your designs, and they’ll handle printing and shipping. You earn a commission on each sale without having to deal with inventory.
10. Opinion
Companies are willing to pay for consumer insights, making survey-taking a simple way to earn some extra cash.
Sites like Survey Junkie and Swagbucks offer points for completing surveys, which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.
While you won’t get rich, it’s an easy way to make money in your spare time.
For a potentially bigger payday, look into focus groups. These often pay more – think $50 to $150 per hour – but require more time and are less frequent.
User Interviews is a great platform to find these opportunities. You may also check out this list of websites that pay you to answer questions online.
11. CDs, DVDs, and Video Games
Still hanging onto physical media? Your old collection could be a goldmine!
While streaming has taken over, there’s still a market for CDs, DVDs, and especially video games.
Decluttr makes it easy to sell these items. Just scan the barcodes with their app, and they’ll give you an instant offer. They even provide free shipping.
While individual items might not fetch much – often a few dollars each – it can add up quickly if you have a large collection.
For video games, consider using a specialized platform like SidelineSwap. Retro games, in particular, can be surprisingly valuable.
A copy of Super Mario 64 for Nintendo 64, for instance, could sell for $30 or more.
12. Recipes
Did you know you can actually sell your recipes? Yes, your culinary creations could be worth more than just compliments.
Magazines are often on the hunt for unique dishes. Cuisine at Home, for instance, pays $25 for solving common cooking problems.
That’s a nice chunk of change for sharing your secret sauce!
But don’t stop at magazines. Food bloggers are always looking for fresh content so consider pitching your recipes to them. Some pay per recipe, while others might offer exposure to their audience.
For a more passive income stream, compile your recipes into an e-cookbook. Sell it on platforms like Etsy or your own website.
With the right marketing, you could be earning royalties while you sleep!
13. Tickets
If you’ve got tickets to an event you can’t attend, don’t let them go to waste! There’s a booming market for reselling tickets.
StubHub is a popular platform for ticket resales. They handle the transaction and transfer, making it safe and easy. You also set the price. Just be aware that they take a 15% cut of the total sale.
Before listing, check local laws about ticket reselling since some states have restrictions. Also, be transparent about seat locations and any restrictions on the tickets.
Timing is crucial in ticket sales. Prices often spike just before an event, but waiting too long could leave you stuck with unsold tickets.
Monitor similar listings to gauge the best time to sell.
14. Wedding Dress
Oh, the memories attached to a wedding dress! I remember the joy of finding “the one” for my big day.
But after the confetti settled, it just sat in my closet, taking up space.
That’s when I discovered SellMyWeddingDress.org — a platform where you can list your wedding dress for a fee.
The process was surprisingly easy. After paying the small listing fee, I took some good photos and wrote a detailed description.
Within a month, I had a buyer. The dress I paid $1,500 for sold for $800. Not bad for something I’d only worn once!
If you’re considering selling your wedding dress, take clear, well-lit photos. Include close-ups of any special details.
Be honest about any alterations or imperfections. And don’t forget to mention the designer and original price – these details can boost your sale price.
15. Plants, Herbs, Fruits, or Vegetables
Your gardening hobby could sprout into a profitable venture especially since the demand for homegrown produce and plants is blooming.
Start small by selling excess produce at local farmers’ markets. As you grow (pun intended!), consider specialized plants.
Aquatic plants for aquariums, for example, can fetch a pretty penny. You can make $800 in just 30 days by selling aquatic plants on Craigslist. All it would take is a $5 ad!
When selling plants, presentation matters. Invest in nice pots or create attractive arrangements.
For produce, ensure everything is clean and looks fresh. Consider offering recipe cards with unusual vegetables to encourage sales.
16. Sweets
Homemade treats can be a delightful way to earn some extra dough.
Start by perfecting a few signatures like brownies or irresistible cookies. Once you’ve nailed your recipes, it’s time to start selling.
Local events like bake sales and farmers’ markets are great places to start. As you build a following, consider taking custom orders for special occasions.
During holidays, the demand for homemade sweets skyrockets. Simply post photos on Facebook with prices and take orders from friends and family.
If you’re thinking about scaling up, look into your local cottage food laws. These regulate the sale of homemade food items.
17. Beauty Products
The global beauty market is expected to reach a staggering $232 billion by 2030 so now is the best time to create and sell your own beauty products.
Start small with simple products like lip balms or body scrubs. As you gain confidence, you can expand into more complex formulations.
After all, many successful beauty entrepreneurs began in their own kitchens!
When crafting beauty products, safety is paramount. Research your ingredients thoroughly and ensure they’re cosmetic-grade.
Don’t forget about proper labeling – it’s not just about looking pretty, it’s a legal requirement.
Platforms like Etsy or your own Shopify store are great places to start selling. Then, approach local boutiques or spas to stock your products.
18. Antiques or Vintage items
For history buffs and nostalgia lovers, your passion for the past could translate into present-day profits.
The market for antiques and vintage items is thriving, with many pieces fetching impressive sums.
To get started, educate yourself on various eras and styles. Attend antique fairs, read collector’s guides, and join online forums, too.
When sourcing items, think beyond traditional antique shops. Estate sales, flea markets, and even yard sales can yield hidden treasures. One person’s trash could be your ticket to a tidy profit!
For selling, consider platforms like Ruby Lane or Chairish, which specialize in antiques and vintage goods.
These sites attract serious collectors willing to pay top dollar for the right pieces.
19. Digital Content
From e-books to printable planners, digital content offers endless possibilities for passive income.
Once created, these products can be sold infinitely without additional production costs.
You can start by identifying your skills and interests.
Are you a whiz at organizing? Create and sell printable planner pages. Got a knack for design? Digital stickers for planners and scrapbooks are hugely popular on Etsy.
In many of these printables, you’ll find Canva extremely useful. Check out this list of 22 ways to make money with Canva to get more ideas.
As for pricing your digital products, consider the value you’re providing rather than just the time it took to create.
A well-designed set of printables could sell for $10-$20, potentially earning you hundreds or even thousands over time.
20. Furniture
Flipping furniture can be a fun and profitable venture if you can spot diamond-in-the-rough furniture pieces.
With a little elbow grease and creativity, you can transform tired old pieces into stunning statement furniture.
Start by scouring thrift stores, yard sales, and online marketplaces for potential pieces. Look for solid wood furniture with good bones – don’t be put off by outdated finishes or minor damage.
Once you’ve worked your magic, platforms like Facebook Marketplace are great for local sales.
For higher-end or vintage pieces, consider Chairish or 1stDibs. These sites cater to design enthusiasts willing to pay premium prices for unique furniture.
21. Wedding Supplies
Your “big day” leftovers could also be someone else’s treasure.
Wedding supplies are in constant demand, and selling yours could help recoup some of those wedding expenses.
From centerpieces to signage, there’s a market for almost everything wedding-related.
A gently used wedding dress, for instance, could fetch up to $1,000 depending on its condition and original cost.
Facebook Marketplace is an excellent platform for local sales of larger items like decorations or furniture.
For wedding gowns and accessories, consider specialized sites like StillWhite.com. They charge a one-time listing fee but no commission, maximizing your profit.
22. Clearance Items
Bargain hunting isn’t just a hobby – it can be a profitable side gig! I’ve personally turned clearance item flipping into a fun and lucrative venture.
Last Black Friday, I snagged a bunch of discounted smart home devices. After the holiday rush, when stock was low everywhere, I listed them online for a tidy profit.
One $25 smart plug set sold for $45 – that’s an 80% return!
To get started, keep an eye out for major sales events like Black Friday or end-of-season clearances.
Retail arbitrage apps can help you compare prices across different platforms to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
As for reselling, timing is key. Hold onto seasonal items until demand peaks again.
And don’t forget to factor in all costs – shipping, platform fees, and your time – when setting your prices.
23. Vintage Toys
Nostalgia is a powerful force, and nowhere is this more evident than in the vintage toy market.
Those dusty old action figures in your attic? They could be worth a small fortune!
Collectors are willing to pay top dollar for rare or well-preserved vintage toys.
A mint condition Cabbage Patch Kid from the 80s, for example, could sell for hundreds of dollars.
To start selling, research the current market value of your toys. Websites like eBay can give you a good idea of what similar items are fetching.
For high-value or rare toys, consider having them professionally graded to maximize their worth.
24. Stock Photos
Ever since content marketing took the work by storm, the demand for quality stock photos is higher than ever.
Stock photo sites like Shutterstock and Getty Images allow you to upload your photos and earn royalties each time they’re downloaded.
While individual sales might be small, they can add up over time. Some successful stock photographers earn thousands of dollars per month!
To succeed in stock photography, focus on quality over quantity.
Shoot images that are versatile and in-demand – think business concepts, lifestyle shots, and seasonal themes.
Also, pay attention to keywords. Proper tagging can significantly increase your photos’ visibility and sales potential.
You may also check out our list of 26 best apps and websites to sell photos online.
25. Exercise Equipment
From dumbbells to treadmills, exercise equipment can be a great income source for resellers.
These days, many people are looking to build their personal gyms without breaking the bank.
Facebook Marketplace is an excellent platform for selling larger equipment locally. For smaller items like weights or resistance bands, consider platforms like eBay or Amazon for a wider reach.
When listing exercise equipment, cleanliness is crucial. Nobody wants to buy sweaty, grimy gear so give everything a thorough cleaning before photographing.
And if you’re selling electronic equipment like treadmills, make sure to demonstrate that it’s in working order.
Don’t forget to capitalize on seasonal trends.
January, when New Year’s resolutions are fresh, is often a peak time for fitness equipment sales. Plan your listings accordingly to maximize your profits!
26. Designer Purses
Your love for designer handbags could pad your wallet, too. High-end purses often retain their value, making them excellent items to resell.
Platforms like The RealReal specialize in luxury consignment. They handle authentication, which can be a major selling point for wary buyers.
Alternatively, Rebag offers competitive prices for designer bags and even provides instant quotes online.
When selling, condition is key. Keep those dust bags and authenticity cards – they can significantly boost your sale price.
Don’t forget to capture clear photos of any wear and tear, as transparency builds trust with potential buyers.
Interestingly, some brands hold their value better than others. Hermès and Chanel, for instance, are known to appreciate over time.
So, that splurge bag you bought years ago? It might just turn out to be a savvy investment!
27. Coins
While not every penny will make you rich, certain rare coins can fetch a pretty penny (pun intended!).
But before you start selling, do your homework. Resources like the “Red Book” (A Guide Book of United States Coins) can help you identify valuable coins.
Look for errors, rare mint marks, or special editions – these often command higher prices.
When it comes to selling, you have options. Local coin shops offer quick cash, but online platforms like eBay can sometimes yield higher prices.
For valuable coins, consider having them professionally graded. While it costs money upfront, it can significantly increase the selling price.
28. Cars
Got an old clunker taking up space in your driveway? Turn that eyesore into cold, hard cash!
The used car market is booming, and even non-running vehicles can be valuable.
For cars in decent condition, try listing on platforms like Carvana or CarMax. They often offer competitive prices and handle much of the paperwork.
If your car is on its last legs, companies like Peddle specialize in buying junk cars. They’ll even pick it up for free!
When trying to sell your car, honesty is the best policy. Be upfront about any issues as it builds trust and prevents headaches down the road.
Take plenty of photos, too, including any damage or unique features. And don’t forget to gather all relevant paperwork, including the title and maintenance records.
Pro Tip: A little elbow grease can go a long way. A thorough cleaning and minor repairs can significantly boost your car’s value.
29. Scrap Gold
Those broken chains, lone earrings, or outdated pieces on your jewelry box could be worth their weight in… well, gold.
Before selling, sort your gold by karat. Higher karat gold (like 18K or 24K) is more valuable than lower karat gold (like 10K).
Use a magnifying glass to look for karat markings – they’re usually stamped on the piece.
When it comes to selling, shop around. Prices can vary widely between buyers.
Local jewelers and pawn shops offer quick cash, but online buyers like CashforGoldUSA often have competitive rates.
Just be sure to use insured shipping if you go the online route.
30. Clothes Hangers
Believe it or not, those humble clothes hangers cluttering your closet could be a source of extra cash.
It might sound surprising, but there’s actually a market for these everyday items!
Dry cleaners and clothing stores are often in need of hangers. Bundle them up by type (plastic, wood, or wire) and reach out to local businesses. You might be surprised at the response!
For a wider reach, consider online platforms. On eBay, you can find bundles of 50 assorted hangers selling for around $10. Not a fortune, but it adds up – especially if you have a lot to offload.
31. Wine Corks
If you are a wine enthusiast, your passion could open up a new revenue stream! Those corks you’ve been saving? They’re not just mementos – they’re marketable.
Crafters and DIY decorators love using wine corks for various projects.
Bundle them up and list them on craft-friendly sites like Etsy. A pack of 50 assorted corks can also sell for around $10 on Amazon.
When selling corks, variety is key. A mix of natural and synthetic corks is often more appealing to buyers.
Clean them thoroughly and let them dry completely before packaging to prevent mold.
32. Parking Spaces
With parking at a premium in many cities, renting out your space can be surprisingly lucrative.
Platforms like Neighbor make it easy to list your parking space. According to their data, you could earn up to $450 per month, depending on your location.
When listing your space, be specific about details like size, security features, and access hours.
Clear photos are a must. And don’t forget to check local regulations – some areas have restrictions on renting out parking spaces.
Pro Tip: Consider offering discounts for long-term rentals to secure a steady income.
33. Advertising Space
Have a blog that’s generating traffic? It’s time to cash in using them!
Selling advertising space on your website can help you monetize your online presence.
Ad networks like AdThrive and SHE Media make it easy to get started. They handle the technical aspects, leaving you free to focus on creating great content.
Earnings vary widely, but some bloggers report making thousands per month from ad revenue alone.
Don’t have a blog? No problem! Consider affiliate marketing instead.
By including special links to products in your content, you can earn a commission on any resulting sales. Amazon Associates is a popular choice for beginners in affiliate marketing.
34. Sports Equipment and Memorabilia
Sports memorabilia can also be particularly valuable. Signed merchandise, vintage jerseys, and rare trading cards can fetch impressive sums.
For high-value items, consider using a specialized auction house like Heritage Auctions, which has expertise in sports collectibles.
Remember, authenticity is vital in the memorabilia market.
Keep any certificates of authenticity safe, and consider getting items authenticated if you’re unsure of their provenance.
35. Kitchen Gadgets and Appliances
Time for a kitchen clear-out? Those unused gadgets and appliances cluttering your countertops could be someone else’s culinary dream come true.
High-end brands like KitchenAid and Cuisinart tend to hold their value well.
For these items, consider selling on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace, where you can reach a wide audience of cooking enthusiasts.
When listing, be sure to mention any special features or attachments. Include clear photos of the item in use, if possible.
And don’t forget to clean your appliances thoroughly – a sparkling presentation can make all the difference in attracting buyers.
36. Used Bikes
The market for used bikes is surprisingly robust, with options ranging from traditional bicycles to electric bikes and even exercise bikes.
Platforms like Bike Exchange specialize in bicycle sales, while local classifieds can be great for quick, hassle-free transactions.
When selling, provide as much detail as possible about your bike’s specifications, including frame size, components, and any recent upgrades or maintenance.
Don’t forget about accessories!
Helmets, lights, and bike racks can often be sold alongside the bike for a package deal.
37. Seasonal Decorations
‘Tis always the season to make some money!
Those holiday decorations gathering dust in your attic could be cold hard cash instead.
From artificial Christmas trees to Halloween inflatables, you could definitely sell seasonal decor year-round.
Platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace are great for finding buyers, but also consider local buy/sell groups, especially for larger items.
Timing is key when selling seasonal items. List Christmas decorations in early fall, Halloween items in late summer, and so on.
This gives buyers time to plan and purchase before the season hits.
38. Digital Printables
Digital printables are very scalable so they’re perfect to sell if you want passive income. Once you’ve created a design, you can sell it infinitely without additional production costs.
Plus, with tools like Canva, you don’t need to be a graphic design pro to get started. You can check out our list of ways you to earn through Canva to learn more.
But my top tip? Pay attention to trends and seasonal demands.
I started selling digital products a few years back and my Halloween-themed planner pages always see a spike in sales come September.
And don’t underestimate the power of good keywords in your listings – they can make a world of difference in your visibility on platforms like Etsy.
39. Tools
Many handymen are looking for quality equipment at a fraction of the retail price.
Power tools from reputable brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Bosch tend to hold their value really well.
But well-maintained hand tools like a set of wrenches or screwdrivers can also fetch a decent price.
Before selling your tools, clean them thoroughly and test them to ensure they’re in working order.
If you have the original packaging or manuals, include them – they can increase the perceived value of your items.
40. Musical Instruments
Local music stores often buy used instruments, offering a quick and easy selling option.
For potentially higher returns, consider online platforms like Reverb, which caters specifically to musicians.
When listing your instrument, be sure to provide details about its condition, any modifications, and its history. Include clear photos from multiple angles and if possible, a sound sample.
For high-end or rare instruments, consider having them professionally appraised, too.
41. Sneakers
If you’re a sneakerhead, your passion for kicks could kick-start a profitable side hustle.
The sneaker resale market is at an all time high, with some limited-edition pairs fetching eye-watering prices.
Platforms like StockX and GOAT specialize in sneaker resales, providing a marketplace for buyers and sellers of coveted footwear.
Brands like Jordan, Nike, and Yeezy are particularly popular, with rare editions sometimes selling for thousands of dollars.
Be sure to authenticate your sneakers if possible – it can significantly increase buyer confidence and your potential profit.
Also, keep an eye on upcoming releases and limited editions. Getting your hands on these could lead to substantial profits when resold.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this list, I hope you’re feeling inspired to start your own selling adventure.
I’ve been through this journey myself, and I can tell you, it’s incredibly rewarding. It starts with just one sale, and before you know it, you’re seeing the fruits of your labor.
Don’t be afraid to try new things, learn from your experiences, and have fun with it. Selling doesn’t have to be a chore — it can be a creative and exciting way to make some extra cash.
Care to share your thoughts on this list? I’d love to read your comments and reactions. Feel free to list some items we may have forgotten, too!
