Freelancing has become increasingly popular over the past few years. It offers workers the flexibility to choose their projects, set their own schedules, and work from almost anywhere in the world. While many freelance jobs are in traditional fields like writing, graphic design, or programming, you don’t have to go the conventional route.
From professional cuddling to pet food tasters, there are lots of unique, unusual freelance jobs that pay well. Let’s take a deep dive into some of the most unconventional freelance gigs that will keep you on your toes.
1. Professional Snuggler
Did you know that you could get paid to cuddle? Professional snugglers offer their services to people who find platonic human touch therapeutic, but don’t have access to it in their personal lives.
Professional snugglers typically set up appointments in private spaces such as their office or a client’s home. They earn anywhere from $40 to $80 per hour according to Zippia, making this a potentially lucrative side hustle for touchy-feely types.
2. Rent-a-Friend
Loneliness is a widespread issue, especially in today’s digital age. Enter the rent-a-friend service, where individuals can hire someone to hang out with them for a couple hours.
This could involve anything from grabbing a coffee, attending an event together, or simply having a chat. While it may sound odd to pay for companionship, for some it provides a sense of connection they may be lacking in their lives.
3. Virtual Feng Shui Consultant
Although feng shui is a longstanding practice that dates back to ancient China, it’s just picking up steam in the US. Feng shui influencers are teaching their growing audiences on Instagram how to harmonize their homes.
However, homeowners who need more support may hire a virtual feng shui consultant. They formulate personalized design plans for their clients that invite health and prosperity into their homes. On average, you can expect to earn $827 per job.
4. Professional Line Stander
Waiting in long lines is a frustratingly common annoyance of modern life. Whether you’re trying to snag the latest iPhone or secure tickets to a hot Broadway show, you’ll probably have to queue for hours.
Unless, of course, you have the funds to hire a professional line stander, which is one of the most unusual freelance jobs. These contract workers are paid to stand in line on behalf of busy clients who don’t have time to wait themselves. For this shockingly simple gig, you can earn nearly $19 per hour!
5. Foraging Instructor
Do you have a green thumb and an encyclopedic knowledge of plants? If so, becoming a foraging instructor may be right up your alley. These tour guides lead nature walks and teach people how to identify edible plants, flowers, and mushrooms.
You can potentially offer your classes both in person and online to expand your client base and reach. Consider using online education platforms like Teachable and Outschool to share your passion for plants while earning some side cash.
6. Pet Food Taster
Yes, you read that correctly! There are people who make a living tasting pet food, which is one of the most unusual freelance jobs out there. Pet food companies employ professional tasters to ensure the quality and palatability of their products.
These tasters evaluate factors like flavor, texture, and aroma to guarantee that pets will enjoy their meals. While it may not be the most glamorous gig, for animal lovers with adventurous taste buds, it’s a unique way to earn a living.
7. Professional Sleeper
Believe it or not, there are freelancers who get paid to sleep. Hotels, mattress companies, and even universities hire professional sleepers to test the comfort of their accommodations or products. These individuals spend hours sleeping in various environments, providing feedback on mattress firmness, room temperature, and noise levels. It’s a dream job for those who can doze off anywhere!
8. Human Statue
Street performers have long captivated audiences with their talents, but human statues take performance art to a whole new level. These freelancers dress in elaborate costumes and pose as statues in public spaces, remaining motionless for extended periods.
Passersby are often surprised when the statues suddenly come to life, creating moments of delight and wonder in busy city streets. One freelancer reported to Business Insider that she earns $60 per hour as a full-time living statue, making this one of the most unusual freelance jobs that pays well.
9. Professional Dumpster Diver
Professional dumpster divers salvage valuable or reusable items from dumpsters, trash bins, recycling centers, and curbs. They search for discarded items such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and outdoor gear, which they upcycle and resell.
Although many resellers find their inventory at thrift stores, it’s much easier to turn a profit as a salvager since your cost of goods is nothing. However, it’s important to be mindful of laws around dumpster diving in your area and wear proper protective gear.
10. Escape Room Designer
Escape room designers create immersive puzzle experiences for players to solve within a set time limit. This unusual freelance job involves designing themed rooms, crafting challenging puzzles and clues, and ensuring a seamless flow of gameplay. Creativity, storytelling, and problem-solving skills are crucial in this role, which pays around $75K on average.
11. Digital Detox Coach
Many of us developed poor digital habits during the pandemic when we were stuck inside, so we could use a digital detox coach. They help clients who are too dependent on tech establish a healthier relationship with the internet and smart devices.
They provide personalized strategies and accountability to help clients disconnect from screens, manage their time more effectively, and rediscover offline activities and connections. On average, these consultants earn about $50 per hour and enjoy the feeling of helping others improve their lives.
The Right Gig For You Is Out There
These unusual freelance jobs prove that there’s a place for everyone in the gig economy. You don’t need a traditionally marketable skill to earn side cash. You can turn almost any hobby or interest into a service and carve out a unique niche for yourself. Pursuing your passions through freelancing will enable you to generate extra income while feeling fulfilled by your work.
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Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance and lifestyle writer. When she’s not busy writing about her favorite money saving hacks or tinkering with her budget spreadsheets, she likes to travel, garden, and cook healthy vegetarian meals.