19 Side Hustles for Nurses To Earn Extra Income in 2026

If you’re a nurse looking to bring in additional income, you’re in good company. According to one survey, four in five nurses living in the US have a side hustle. 

For many workers, side gigs are a win-win. You get to expand your skills and explore different fields, and even small side gigs can make a significant difference in your budget and savings. 

Whether you’re looking for extra hours in patient care or hoping to apply your nursing skills to a different line of work, here are some of the best side hustles for registered nurses to explore.

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19 profitable side hustles for nurses

Nursing side hustles at a glance

Use this snapshot to quickly compare nursing side hustles based on where you work (remote vs. in-person) and how you work (clinical vs. non-clinical).

Remote and clinical

Best if you want to keep practicing nursing without commuting.

• Telehealth nurse
• Clinical research nurse (some roles partially remote)
• Legal nurse consultant (record review, case analysis)

Remote and non-clinical

Ideal if you want flexibility, less physical work, or a step away from bedside care.

• Medical billing and coding specialist
• Health writer
• Medical transcriber
• Nurse consultant
• Nursing tutor
• Nurse influencer
• Health coach

In-person and clinical

Good fit if you prefer hands-on care and don’t mind travel or fixed locations.

• Per diem nurse
• Home care nurse
• Immunization nurse
• Cosmetic injection nurse
• Camp nurse
• Event medical staff
• CPR/first aid instructor
• Mobile IV therapy business

In-person and non-clinical (or hybrid)

Best for nurses who enjoy teaching, advising, or business ownership.

• Adjunct nursing instructor
• Nurse consultant (on-site engagements)
• Mobile IV therapy business (clinical delivery + entrepreneurship)

1. Telehealth nurse

If you want to continue your nursing career from home, try telehealth nursing. Telehealth nurses use video conferencing to assess and assist patients remotely, often working with patients in the health care system who live far from the hospital or who struggle to afford in-person appointments. 

You’ll often collaborate with other health care professionals to deliver coordinated patient care remotely. 

Earning potential:

Telehealth nurses earn an average of $44 per hour nationally, with rates varying by experience, specialty, and employer.

Time commitment:

Six to 20 hours per week. Many telehealth roles are part-time or shift-based, making it easier to fit around a full-time nursing job or other business pursuits.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

High. Remote work with flexible scheduling, though shifts may still be fixed.

Pros:

• Work from home: No commute or physical strain of bedside work
• Stay clinically active: Continue using your nursing skills without leaving health care entirely
• Growing demand: Telehealth continues to expand across health systems and specialty clinics

Cons:

• Less in-person interaction: Not ideal if you thrive on face-to-face patient care
• Technology challenges: Connectivity issues or unfamiliar platforms can slow down care
• Access limitations: Some patients may struggle with the technology required for virtual visits

How to get started:

• Check internal opportunities: Ask hospitals or health systems you’ve worked with if they offer telehealth roles.
• Explore specialty clinics: Look for telehealth-specific positions at virtual care providers.
• Confirm requirements: Ensure your RN license is active and meets state telehealth regulations.
• Prepare your setup: Reliable internet, a quiet workspace, and comfort with video-based care are essential.

2. Cosmetic injection nurse

A cosmetic injection nurse provides aesthetic treatments like Botox and dermal fillers under medical supervision. It’s a way of combining your clinical skills with client service in the growing wellness industry.

Earning potential:

Cosmetic injection nurses earn about $67 per hour, on average.

Time commitment:
Five to 25 hours per week, with the potential for more. Work can be part-time or by appointment, and many nurses grow into fuller schedules as they build repeat clients.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. You can choose shifts or client appointments, though work is in-person.

Pros:

• High demand: Aesthetic services are popular, with growing client interest
• Client referrals: Happy clients often lead to repeat business and referrals
• Set your pace: Choose part-time clinic shifts or build your own client base

Cons:

• Regulations vary: State requirements for injectables and supervision can be strict
• Skill practice: Mastery takes practice and ongoing training
• In-person work: Requires clinic or med spa presence rather than remote work

How to get started:

• Complete certification: Get trained and certified in cosmetic injections (e.g., Botox, fillers).
• Connect with clinics: Partner with med spas, dermatology offices, or wellness centers.
• Build a reputation: Focus on client experience and safety to encourage referrals.
• Set up your practice: If you plan to operate independently, ensure proper licensing and liability coverage.
• Market your services: Use local listings, social media, and word of mouth to attract clients.

3. Nurse consultant

As a nurse consultant, you use your clinical experience to advise organizations on best practices, compliance, and/or operational improvements. 

Your clients might include health care organizations, colleges and universities, startups, legal teams, or even writers working on medical TV shows and films.

Earning potential:
Nurse consultants earn an average of $47 per hour, with higher rates possible for specialized expertise, legal consulting, or long-term advisory engagements.

Time commitment:
Five to 15 hours per week. Consulting work is often project-based, so it’s easier to layer on alongside a full-time role or other entrepreneurial pursuits.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very high. You choose your clients, projects, and workload.

Pros:

• High flexibility: Set your own schedule and take on projects as availability allows

• Taps into deep expertise: Turn years of nursing experience into advisory income
• Scalable: Hourly consulting can evolve into retainers, workshops, or long-term partnerships
• Low overhead: Often remote and doesn’t require additional equipment or facilities

Cons:

• Client acquisition required: You’ll need to consistently find and retain clients
• Income variability: Work may fluctuate month to month, especially early on
• Business responsibilities: Contracts, invoicing, and marketing fall on you

How to get started:

• Clarify your niche: Decide which area you want to consult in (clinical operations, education, compliance, content review, etc.).
• Confirm credentials: Make sure you have the certifications or education required for your chosen specialty.
• Build visibility: Create a strong LinkedIn profile highlighting your expertise and past experience.
• Market your services: Share insights, case examples, or thought leadership to attract potential clients.
• Start small: Begin with short-term or hourly projects to build credibility and referrals.

4. Clinical research nurse

Clinical research trials typically need trained health care professionals to help coordinate between researchers and volunteer patients. In clinical research nurse jobs, you may recruit and onboard patients, administer treatment, conduct in-person focus groups, collect and organize data, or oversee compliance with local and federal regulations. 

Earning potential:
Clinical research nurses earn an average of $47 per hour, with pay varying based on the type of trial, level of responsibility, and whether the role is part-time, contract-based, or tied to a specific study.

Time commitment:
Eight to 20 hours per week. Many research roles are tied to study timelines, which can mean flexible hours at some stages and heavier workloads during patient onboarding or data collection periods.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Moderate. Schedules may fluctuate based on trial phases and compliance requirements.

Pros:

• Meaningful impact: Contribute directly to the development of new treatments and therapies
• Skill expansion: Build experience in research, data management, and regulatory compliance
• Professional credibility: Research experience can strengthen long-term career opportunities
• Stable hourly pay: Often paid at a consistent hourly or contract rate

Cons:

• Education requirements: Some roles may require a graduate-level degree or prior research experience
• Deadline pressure: Managing timelines, documentation, and compliance can be stressful
• Less flexibility: Study schedules and regulatory requirements can limit autonomy

How to get started:

• Explore familiar institutions: Check job boards at hospitals or health care facilities where you’ve worked.
• Look for active trials: Research universities, hospitals, and clinical trial centers in your area.
• Confirm qualifications: Review education and certification requirements for research-focused roles.
• Start part-time: Look for contract or study-specific roles to test the fit before committing long term.

5. Legal nurse consultant

Unlike general nurse consultants, legal nurse consultants work directly with attorneys. They review medical records, flag potential standards-of-care issues, and help legal teams understand the medical details behind cases like malpractice, personal injury, and workers’ compensation claims.

Earning potential:

Legal nurse consultants earn an average of $38 per hour, with experienced consultants or those working on complex cases often charging higher rates for contract or retainer-based work.

Time commitment:
Five to 20 hours per week. Work is typically project-based, making it possible to scale your workload up or down depending on your availability.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. Much of the work is remote and deadline-driven, though timelines are set by legal cases.

Pros:

• Specialized expertise: Uses clinical knowledge in a high-value legal context
• Mostly remote: Record review and case analysis can often be done from home
• Higher earning potential: Legal specialization often commands premium rates
• Non-clinical: No patient care or bedside responsibilities

Cons:

• Additional training required: Many roles expect legal nurse consulting education or certification
• Steep learning curve: Requires familiarity with legal terminology and processes
• Case-driven timelines: Workloads may fluctuate based on active cases

How to get started:

• Learn the specialty: Complete a legal nurse consulting course or certification.
• Clarify your niche: Decide whether to focus on malpractice, personal injury, or insurance cases.
• Build credibility: Highlight clinical experience and any relevant legal training on LinkedIn.
• Find clients: Network with attorneys, law firms, or legal consulting agencies.
• Start contract-based: Take on smaller case reviews to build experience and referrals.

6. Nurse influencer 

Nurse influencers build an online presence by sharing clinical insights, career advice, or lifestyle content related to nursing and health care. Over time, you can monetize this audience through brand partnerships, educational resources, or digital products. 

Earning potential:

Your income depends on audience size, engagement, and monetization methods. For instance, nurse influencer @marinakneal earns anywhere from $159 to $3,593 each month. Income often comes from brand partnerships, affiliate links, sponsored content, and digital product sales.

Time commitment:

Five to 20 hours per week, with the potential for more. Early stages require consistent content creation, with potential to earn more passively over time as your audience and product library grow.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

High. You choose your content schedule and income streams, though consistency matters.

Pros:

• Build a personal brand: Create an asset that grows over time
• Passive income potential: Earn through digital products and affiliate links
• Community impact: Educate, support, and inspire other nurses
• Scalable: Revenue isn’t tied directly to hours worked

Cons:

• Highly competitive: Standing out takes time and a clear niche
• Content consistency required: Growth depends on regular posting
• Unpredictable income early on: Monetization may take months to build

How to get started:

• Choose your platform: Focus on TikTok or Instagram to grow visibility quickly.
• Share your expertise: Post educational, relatable, or behind-the-scenes nursing content.
• Engage your audience: Respond to comments and build trust with your community.
• Partner with brands: Work with health care or lifestyle brands on sponsored content.
• Sell products: Create and sell digital resources through platforms like Etsy or Gumroad.

7. Health writer

If you have a knack for writing, use your medical knowledge to position yourself as a freelance writer for health websites, blogs, journals, magazines, or social media pages.

You can also serve as a subject matter expert—a medical professional who reviews health-related content written by others to verify its accuracy.

Earning potential:

Health writers earn an average of $47 per hour, with rates varying based on experience, niche expertise, and project type. Writers who specialize in regulated health care topics or act as subject matter experts (SMEs) often command higher rates over time.

Time commitment:

Five to 20 hours per week. Writing work is highly scalable, you can start with a few articles a month and increase your workload as your client base grows.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very high. Fully remote side business with control over projects, clients, and schedule.

Pros:

• Fully remote: Work from anywhere with an internet connection
• Flexible hours: Choose when and how much you work
• Low energy output: Ideal if you’re an introvert or want a less physically demanding side hustle
• Scalable: Can grow into a full-time freelance business or consulting role

Cons:

• Time-intensive projects: Research-heavy or long-form writing can take more time than expected
• Tight deadlines: Some clients require fast turnarounds that may conflict with other commitments
• Variable income: Freelance work can fluctuate, especially early on

How to get started:

• Define your niche: Decide what you want to write about (clinical education, patient resources, health tech, wellness, etc.).
• Find freelance opportunities: Join job boards, Slack groups like Superpath, or writer communities focused on health care or B2B content.
• Build visibility: Post on LinkedIn to signal availability and highlight your nursing expertise.
• Pitch directly: Reach out to health and wellness companies, publications, or agencies that publish medical content.
• Start small: Take on a few projects to build clips and raise your rates over time.

📚Recommended reading:29 Smart and Simple Passive Income Ideas

8. Adjunct nursing instructor

Adjunct nursing teachers lead intro-level classes at nursing colleges, typically on a semester-to-semester basis. If you’re an experienced nurse, it’s a chance to share your knowledge, mentor future nurses, and stay connected to the profession in an academic setting.

Earning potential:
Adjunct nursing instructors earn an average of $44 per hour, with pay varying based on institution, course load, and education level.

Time commitment:
Six to 15 hours per week, per course. Time is typically split between teaching, grading, office hours, and course prep, with a heavier workload at the beginning and end of the semester.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐
Low to moderate. Schedules are set in advance and usually require a semester-long commitment.

Pros:

• Purpose-driven work: A rewarding way to give back to the nursing community
• Professional credibility: Teaching experience can strengthen your long-term career profile
• Predictable income: Pay and workload are usually clearly defined for the semester
• Networking opportunities: Build relationships within academic and health care institutions

Cons:

• Fixed schedule: Less flexibility than other side hustles due to set class times
• Education requirements: Many programs require a graduate-level degree or teaching credentials
• Time-bound commitment: You’ll need to commit for an entire semester once you accept a course

How to get started:

• Confirm qualifications: Review degree and licensing requirements for teaching at nursing programs.
• Contact local schools: Reach out to nearby nursing colleges or universities about adjunct openings.
• Explore online programs: Many online nursing programs hire adjunct instructors remotely.
• Prepare teaching materials: Be ready to share syllabi, lesson plans, or teaching experience, if requested.

9. Immunization nurse 

Immunization nurses administer routine vaccinations to patients, offering their services part-time in hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies. These roles often see increased demand during vaccination drives, allowing you to pick up extra shifts. 

Earning potential:
Immunization nurses earn an average of $37 per hour, with opportunities to increase earnings during high-demand periods like flu season or public health campaigns.

Time commitment:
Six to 25 hours per week. Hours often increase seasonally, making this a flexible option if you want to earn more at specific times of the year.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. Shifts are often short-term or seasonal, though work is in-person.

Pros:

• Seasonal earning boosts: High demand during flu season and public health initiatives
• Short-term shifts: Easy to layer on as a side hustle without long-term commitments
• Clear scope of work: Focused, repeatable clinical tasks
• On-site opportunities: Workplaces and schools may hire nurses for group vaccinations

Cons:

• Patient anxiety: You’ll need to manage nervous or upset patients
• Adverse reactions: Responsibility for monitoring and responding to side effects
• In-person work: Limited remote flexibility

How to get started:

• Stay current: Keep up-to-date on vaccine protocols and guidelines.
• Check requirements: Ensure your license and immunization certifications are current.
• Apply online: Look for vaccination nurse roles on staffing platforms, like Vivian.
• Expand opportunities: Reach out to pharmacies, clinics, schools, or employers that host vaccination clinics.

10. Camp nurse 

If you’re looking for seasonal work that feels very different from a traditional doctor’s office, look no further than camp nursing. Camp nurses serve as on-site healthcare professionals for all kinds of seasonal gatherings—from recreational summer camps for kids to business retreats for adults—and provide basic medical care for injured or sick campers.

Earning potential:

Camp nurses earn an average of $37 per hour, with pay varying by camp type, location, and season length. Some roles include housing and meals, which can increase overall take-home value.

Time commitment:
Twenty to 40 hours per week during the season. Camp nursing is typically short-term or seasonal, often lasting a few weeks to a few months.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐
Low to moderate. Schedules are fixed during the camp season and may require on-site living.

Pros:

• Unique work environment: Spend time outdoors in a fun, community-oriented setting
• Seasonal commitment: Ideal if you want short-term work without a year-round obligation
• Clear responsibilities: Defined scope focused on basic care and safety
• Lifestyle perks: Some camps provide housing, meals, or recreational access

Cons:

• Seasonal work: Income is limited to the duration of the camp

• On-site requirement: You may need to live at the camp during your contract
• High responsibility: Often responsible for the health needs of many campers

How to get started:

• Prepare your résumé: Highlight pediatric, emergency, or general care experience.
• Apply online: Submit applications to organizations like American Summer Camps, the Alliance for Camp Health, or Camp Nurse Jobs.
• Confirm availability: Review seasonal dates and on-site requirements carefully.
• Check licensing: Make sure your nursing license is valid in the camp’s state.

📚 Recommended reading:11 health care Business Ideas for Emerging Entrepreneurs

11. CPR/first aid instructor

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid instructors teach lifesaving skills to employees, students, and community groups. Many workplaces and organizations require their employees to receive CPR certification or training in first aid, creating many opportunities for you to teach.

Earning potential:

CPR and first aid instructors earn an average of $26 per hour, with rates varying based on location, class size, and whether you work independently or through an organization.

Time commitment:
Two to 10 hours per week. Classes are typically short (one to two hours each), making this an easy side hustle to fit around a full-time schedule.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. You choose when to schedule classes, though travel may be required.

Pros:

• Short, repeatable sessions: Classes follow a consistent curriculum and don’t require extensive prep
• Strong demand: Many organizations require ongoing certification
• Easy scheduling: Teach individual sessions without long-term commitments
• Relies on clinical expertise: Nursing experience builds instant credibility

Cons:

• Travel required: In-person classes may require commuting between locations
• Inconsistent locations: Class times and venues can vary week-to-week
• Limited scalability: Income is tied to the number of classes you teach

How to get started:

• Confirm certification requirements: Ensure you meet instructor requirements for CPR and first aid training.
• Define your audience: Decide whether you’ll teach businesses, schools, or community groups.
• Market locally: Reach out to local businesses, gyms, schools, or child care centers.
• Set your pricing: Offer per-class or per-participant rates.
• Schedule efficiently: Group sessions geographically to reduce travel time.

12. Home care nurse

Many nurses provide health care services to patients outside of a hospital context, administering care and assisting with daily life. 

In-home patient care is especially common among elderly people, people with long-term illnesses, and people with disabilities. Unlike hospital settings, home care nurses may need to bring their own medical equipment to each visit.

You can offer your expertise in particular treatments or conditions to find patients in need.

Earning potential:

Home care nurses earn around $45 per hour, with rates varying based on location, level of care provided, and whether you work independently or through an agency.

Time commitment:

Eight to 25 hours per week. Schedules can range from a few regular visits to ongoing patient care, depending on client needs.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Moderate. You may have some control over your caseload, but patient schedules can limit flexibility.

Pros:

• Meaningful patient relationships: Build long-term connections and directly improve quality of life
• Diverse care experience: Work with patients who have a wide range of needs and conditions
• Care outside the hospital: A good option if you want a break from traditional clinical settings
• Opportunity to specialize: Focus on particular conditions or types of care

Cons:

• Travel required: Visiting patients’ homes can limit scheduling flexibility
• Equipment limitations: You may not always have access to the same tools as a hospital setting
• Less schedule control: Patient needs may dictate hours more than other side hustles

How to get started:

• Confirm your credentials: Ensure your RN license and certifications meet home care requirements.
• Join professional organizations: Look into groups like the Home Care Association of America or the National Association for Home Care and Hospice.
• Explore agencies: Apply to home care agencies to build experience and steady work.

13. Event medical staff

Event medical staff provide basic health care and emergency response at live events. This can include first aid care, triage, wound treatment, hydration support, and coordinating with emergency medical services (EMS) teams, if needed. 

It’s an active role in dynamic, high-energy settings outside traditional clinical environments.

Earning potential:

Event medical staff who provide on-site care at concerts, festivals, sports games, and other gatherings earn around $41 per hour, on average.

Time commitment:
Four to 20 or more hours per event. Work is often tied to specific events, making it easy to pick up shifts around your schedule, though hours can be long during larger gatherings.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Moderate. You can choose which events to work, but shifts are typically evenings, weekends, or multiday events.

Pros:

• Unique work environments: Support people at concerts, festivals, sports games, and more
• Flexible commitment: Pick and choose which events to take based on your availability
• Hands-on care: Use clinical skills in community settings rather than hospitals
• Team atmosphere: Work closely with event crews and emergency personnel

Cons:

• Sporadic work: Events are irregular; there may be gaps between shifts
• Evening/weekend hours: Many events happen outside regular weekday hours
• Fast-paced settings: You must be ready for unpredictable workloads and situations
• On-site requirement: Most work is in person, often outdoors

How to get started:

• Check local opportunities: Search event staffing platforms and venue medical teams.
• Use your network: Ask local hospitals, EMS teams, and event organizers about openings.
• Stay certified: Keep CPR, basic life support (BLS), and any other relevant certifications current.
• Join staffing agencies: Sign up with event medical staffing agencies that book nurses for festivals, races, and community events.
• Prepare your gear: Have a basic medical kit and dependable transportation ready for events.

14. Per diem nurse

Per diem nurses (meaning “by-the-day nurses”) are supplemental staff who pick up shifts at hospitals, often on short notice to respond to higher patient traffic.

Earning potential:
Per diem nurses earn an average of $37/hour, with higher rates often offered for last-minute, overnight, or high-demand shifts.

Time commitment:
Four to 20 hours per week. Work is shift-based and optional, making it easy to earn extra income without a long-term commitment.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. You choose when to work, though shifts can be unpredictable.

Pros:

• Higher hourly pay: Short-notice shifts often come with premium rates
• No long-term commitment: Pick up shifts only when it fits your schedule
• Clinical variety: Work across different units and facilities
• Fast income: Ideal for earning extra cash quickly

Cons:

• Unpredictable scheduling: Shifts may be offered with little notice
• Availability required: Hard to accept shifts if you already work full time
• Less continuity: Fewer long-term patient or team relationships

How to get started:

• Network locally: Talk to fellow nurses and supervisors at nearby hospitals.
• Register with agencies: Sign up with per diem staffing agencies like Nursefinders.
• Keep credentials ready: Ensure licenses, certifications, and health requirements are current.
• Stay flexible: Be prepared to accept shifts on short notice to maximize opportunities.

15. Mobile IV therapy business

A mobile intravenous (IV) therapy business brings hydration and vitamin infusions to clients wherever they are. It’s a popular option for nurses who want to blend hands-on care with entrepreneurship in the booming wellness space.

Earning potential:

Mobile IV therapy nurses can earn $50 per hour, depending on location, service type, and whether you work independently or operate your own business. Revenue increases as you add premium treatments, packages, or recurring clients.

Time commitment:
Five to 30 or more hours per week. You can start by offering a few appointments per week and scale into a full-time business as demand grows.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. You control your schedule, service area, and growth pace, though work is in-person.

Pros:

• Entrepreneurial: Build and own a health care-adjacent business
• Trending service: Growing demand in wellness, fitness, and recovery spaces
• Scalable: Expand by adding staff, services, or multiple locations
• Premium pricing: Clients often pay out of pocket for convenience

Cons:

• Startup investment required: Supplies, equipment, and licensing costs add up
• Liability considerations: Requires proper insurance and risk management
• Regulatory complexity: Rules vary by state and must be followed closely
• In-person work: Travel is required for each appointment

How to get started:

• Research regulations: Review state and local laws governing IV therapy services.
• Define your model: Decide whether you’ll operate independently or under a medical director.
• Source supplies: Secure IV equipment, fluids, and medications from licensed suppliers.
• Get insured: Obtain liability and malpractice insurance appropriate for mobile care.
• Set up operations: Create a booking system, payment processing, and client intake forms.
• Market locally: Promote services through partnerships, social media, and referrals.

16. Medical billing and coding specialist

Medical billing and coding specialists translate patient visits, diagnoses, and procedures into standardized codes used for insurance claims and reimbursement. If you’re looking to step away from direct patient care and use your clinical knowledge behind the scenes, it can be a good option. 

Earning potential:

Medical billing and coding specialists earn an average of $24 per hour. Rates can increase with experience and specialization, especially for professionals handling complex claims or high-volume providers.

Time commitment:
Five to 25 hours per week. Many roles are part-time, contract-based, or freelance, making this a flexible option alongside full-time nursing work.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. Remote, non-clinical work with flexible schedules, though deadlines apply.

Pros:

• Remote work: Most billing and coding roles can be done from home
• Non-clinical: No bedside care or patient interaction required
• Growing demand: Accurate billing and coding are essential for health care revenue and compliance
• Clinical advantage: Nursing experience helps ensure accurate documentation and coding

Cons:

• Certification required: Many employers expect formal billing or coding credentials
• Detail-oriented work: Precision and consistency are critical
• Hourly ceiling: Earnings may cap unless you specialize or move into higher-level roles

How to get started:

• Get certified: Complete a billing or coding certification through organizations like the AAPC.
• Choose your path: Decide whether to focus on billing, coding, or a hybrid role.
• Apply for roles: Look for freelance, contract, or agency positions in medical billing and coding.
• Build experience: Start with smaller accounts or part-time work to gain confidence.
• Stay current: Keep up with coding updates and payer requirements.

17. Nursing tutor

Nursing tutors work with nursing students to help them prepare for and pass their exams. If you passed your NCLEX-RN with flying colors, this could be a good fit. 

Earning potential:

Nursing tutors earn an average of $25 per hour.

Time commitment:
Four to 15 hours per week. Tutoring sessions typically are scheduled in short blocks, making it easy to fit around other work.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very high. You set your rates, schedule, and teaching format.

Pros:

• Control your schedule: Choose when and how often you tutor
• Meaningful impact: Guide and inspire future nurses entering the field
• Skill reinforcement: Teaching helps keep your own clinical knowledge sharp
• Flexible formats: Offer one-on-one or group tutoring sessions

Cons:

• High responsibility: Student outcomes can add pressure and stress
• Seasonal demand: Work may fluctuate around exam periods
• Prep time required: Sessions may require review and planning

How to get started:

• Define your focus: Decide whether you’ll tutor NCLEX prep, coursework, or both.
• Set your rates: Establish hourly or package pricing for sessions.
• Market locally: Advertise at nursing schools, colleges, or training programs.
• Go online: Offer virtual tutoring through your own site or tutoring platforms.
• Start small: Take on a few students to refine your approach before scaling.

18. Health coach

Health coaches work one-on-one with clients to help them set and achieve personal health goals. Being a registered nurse gives you a major advantage as a health coach. 

When building your practice, you can offer general consulting or specialize in fields like sleep consulting, lactation consulting, fitness coaching, acupuncture, or the birthing process.

Earning potential:

Health coaches earn an average of $23 per hour, though total earnings vary widely. Nurses who specialize, package services, or build a personal brand can increase rates over time through programs, retainers, or digital products.

Time commitment:

Five to 20 hours per week. You can start with a small client load and gradually scale as your availability and business grow.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Very high. You control your schedule, rates, and how you deliver services.

Pros:

• High flexibility: Set your own hours and pricing
• Scalable business: Grow beyond hourly work into programs, courses, or memberships
• Online growth potential: Build an audience on platforms like Instagram or TikTok and monetize as an influencer
  
  
• Uses clinical knowledge: Nursing experience helps differentiate you from non-clinical coaches

Cons:

• Slow to start: Building a client base and brand takes time
• Marketing required: Success depends on visibility and consistent outreach
• Energy-intensive early on: Juggling business building with a full-time nursing job can be demanding

How to get started:

• Get certified: Complete a health coaching certification to strengthen credibility and services.
• Define your niche: Choose a focus area that aligns with your clinical background and interests.
• Build your presence:Create a simple website and professional LinkedIn profile.
• Use social media strategically: Share educational content on social media to attract clients and build trust.
• Start small: Work with a few clients to refine your offering before scaling.

19. Medical transcriber 

Many businesses employ transcribers to turn audio or video into written documents. With a nursing background, you’re well-equipped to interpret medical terminology, abbreviations, and clinical language accurately. 

Earning potential:

Medical transcribers earn an average of $42 per hour, with pay varying based on turnaround time, audio complexity, and whether you work freelance or in-house.

Time commitment:
Five to 25 hours per week. Workload is often flexible and can scale up or down, depending on how many files you accept.

Flexibility rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
High. Remote work with control over workload, though deadlines may apply.

Pros:

• Clinical advantage: A nursing education makes complex medical terminology easier to interpret
• Remote work: Most transcription roles can be done from home
• Flexible workload: Choose how many files to take on each week
• Low startup costs: Requires minimal equipment beyond a computer and headset

Cons:

• Audio quality challenges: Poor recordings can slow productivity
• Time-intensive: Transcribing accurately can take longer than expected
• Limited upside: Hourly rates may cap earnings compared to other side hustles

How to get started:

• Explore in-house roles: Apply to hospitals or health care systems hiring medical transcriptionists.
• Choose freelance work:Create a simple website advertising your transcription services.
• Apply to firms: Look for openings at medical transcription companies.
• Set up your tools: Ensure you have reliable transcription software and a comfortable workspace.
• Start small: Take on shorter files to build speed and confidence.

How to choose the right nursing side hustle 

The best nursing side hustle depends on how much time you have, how much flexibility you need, and whether you want to earn fast cash or build something long-term. 

Use the questions below to narrow your options:

1. How much time can you realistically commit?

• A few hours a week: Tutoring, CPR instruction, per diem shifts
• Ten to 20 hours: Telehealth nursing, health writing, immunization roles
• Seasonal or project-based: Camp nurse, event medical staff, clinical research

2. Do you want clinical or non-clinical work?

• Clinical: Per diem nurse, home care nurse, immunization nurse
• Non-clinical: Health writer, medical billing and coding, legal nurse consultant
• Hybrid: Telehealth nurse, nurse consultant, IV therapy business

3. Are you looking for quick income or long-term growth?

• Fast, predictable pay: Per diem nursing, adjunct teaching, event medical staffing
• Scalable income: Health coaching, nurse influencer, consulting
• Business ownership: Mobile IV therapy, tutoring, freelance writing

4. How much flexibility do you need?

• Very flexible: Health writing, tutoring, consulting, influencer work
• Moderately flexible: Telehealth nursing, immunization roles
• Low flexibility: Adjunct teaching, camp nursing, clinical research

5. How comfortable are you with entrepreneurship?

• Low risk, low setup: Per diem shifts, tutoring, transcription
• Moderate setup: Consulting, writing, coaching
• High ownership: IV therapy business, influencer brand, private services

Pro tip: Start with one low-risk side hustle to test the waters. You can always layer on a second option or transition into something more scalable once you learn what suits your lifestyle. 

Getting started with your nursing side business

Once you’ve chosen a side hustle, the next step is setting it up like a real business, even if you’re starting small. A simple foundation now makes it easier to grow (and protect yourself) later.

1. Choose the right business structure

If you’re offering services directly to clients or running anything beyond shift-based work, consider forming an LLC. An LLC can help separate your personal and business finances and offer added legal protection.

To start the LLC process:

• Research state requirements and costs
• Decide whether you’ll operate solo or plan to hire help later
• Open a separate business bank account once formed

(For shift-based roles like per diem or event staffing, this step may not be necessary.)

2. Build a simple brand presence

You don’t need a full website on day one, but you do need a clear way for people to find and trust you.

• Choose a business name that reflects your niche
• Create a basic website or landing page using a website builder
• Use Shopify’s tools to accept payments, book services, or sell digital products

3. Cover your legal and operational basics

Before you start promoting your services, make sure the essentials are covered.

• Confirm licensing and insurance requirements for your state
• Understand any regulations tied to your side hustle
• Set clear pricing and boundaries around availability

Start small, then refine. Many successful nursing side businesses begin with one client, one product, or one service. Focus on getting launched, you can optimize as you grow.