Top 15 Ways to Make Money in UK (Tax Implications of Different Money-Making Activities)
The top ways to make money in UK are:
- Local lead generation
- Search engine optimisation (SEO)
- Affiliate marketing
- Social media management
- Dropshipping
- Paid surveys
- Online market trading
- Cashback sites
- Translation services
- Freelance writing
These money-making opportunities have high demand in the UK. For example, local lead generation caters to local home service businesses. In the UK, this sector makes up 20% of all companies. SEO, social media, and freelance writing meet the growing need for digital services.
Phil found success in the UK with high-ticket dropshipping. He used the ever-growing trust in online shopping to sell expensive products. By selling items priced at around £2,000 with a 30% profit margin, Phil earned £600 per sale. Using strategies like niche selection and automation, Phil streamlined his business operations. Today, he earns £52K.
The UK is a great place to earn money. A 2021 Circular Board Report showed that a whopping 91% of entrepreneurs succeed in the UK. This is thanks to the country’s:
- Economic stability. The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) reports a steady economic growth projected at 1.1% in 2024, 1% in 2025, and 1.1% in 2026. The country has a predictable environment, reducing risks for businesses and workers.
- Diverse income streams. The UK offers various sectors, from traditional industries to more modern ones. This is perfect for different skills and interests.
- Easy startup. According to Ranking Royals, the UK is the fourth-best country for doing business.
However, the UK comes with challenges. For one, there are tax implications for every money-making activity. In affiliate marketing, you must report your income to HMRC, depending on how much you make. This means paying income tax and possibly National Insurance Contributions (NIC). These taxes are a heavy burden for startups. Moreover, misunderstanding or breaking tax rules causes fines and legal trouble. Then, most opportunities in the UK are in London and the Southeast. It’s harder to get noticed outside of these areas. You’ll have fewer influencers, agencies, and media to promote your business. One Redditor comments that the British are more hesitant to pay big for services.
I’ve been running my business for 10+ years. I now earn almost £39K a month. But it wasn’t smooth sailing at the start. I switched between several business models before I found the one that worked for me. This shows that if you choose the right model, you can stick with it and earn big. To help you find your ideal income stream, I go over 36 ways to make money in the UK. I also detail the British tax implications and what generates the most money.
1. Local Lead Generation in UK
To make money with local lead generation :
- Build a website for a home service business in a specific location, such as plumbing in Bristol.
- Use local SEO to rank the website and get organic traffic.
- Find local home service companies without a website or with a weak online presence.
- Rent out your website to them for quality leads.
- Add the company’s name, address, and phone number on your website.
- Keep creating, ranking, and renting for different home service industries and locations. This generates more passive income.
Since home service companies always need customers, they’ll be willing to pay £400 to £2,700 a month. Plus, many UK company owners know the value of being online but lack the resources or know-how to start. It’ll be easier to persuade them to take advantage of your offer - an already ranked website.
This is the business model that brings me £39K every month. And not to sound too cliché, but it has changed my life. In 2014, I was stuck in an insufferable 9-5 job at an auto part company. I was only earning £1,700 a month. Today, I get to travel the world, pursue my hobbies, and dedicate more time to mastering SEO. I barely have to worry about my websites because they require minimal maintenance. The best part? The initial startup costs are just £40-£80.
Of course, it will take some getting used to at the start. The biggest challenge is landing your first deal. You’ll have to make offers to local contractors confidently. It took me 7 months before I started earning enough. But once you know how to create a website, use local keywords, optimise for search engines, and talk to clients, it’ll be a breeze.
2. Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) in UK
To make money with SEO :
- Master keyword research, on-page, off-page, and technical SEO. There are free resources to study online or pay for a course in Coursera or Udemy.
- Choose an SEO service, including content optimisation, audits, or link building.
- Create and rank your own website to showcase your SEO skills.
- Reach out to clients that need your services. Offer free audits or consultations to showcase your expertise and build trust.
- Automate processes and expand your client base or portfolio.
- Develop and market SEO tools or courses to scale up.
How much you earn will depend on your pricing strategy. In the UK, all-around SEO service providers typically charge between £600 and £1,500 per month. Others offer hourly rates from £60 to £250, while project-based pricing is around £500 to £7,000.
Daniel Foley Carter is a successful, London-based SEO consultant who charges £5,000 to £10,000 a month. His fees are big because of his 24+ years of experience and 95% success rate in SEO campaigns. His proven success led him to work with brands like Virgin Holidays, Ladbrokes, and Claims.co.uk.
An SEO agency is a good business to start as it’s one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country. Artios predicts that 21.2% of retail sales will happen online in 2024. This statistic drives many businesses to improve their online visibility ASAP.
One of the biggest challenges to providing SEO services is building credibility. Startups will struggle without a proven track record, especially against recognised names. Even if you offer free assessments, convincing businesses to invest in SEO is tough. Also, this business is very much results-driven. Clients get frustrated or disappointed if their online visibility doesn’t improve quickly. Then, you’ll receive negative reviews. You need a solid strategy to overcome all those challenges.
3. Affiliate Marketing in UK
To make money with affiliate marketing :
- Choose a niche that will do well in the UK. It’s also important to pick something you’re knowledgeable or passionate about.
- Build an online presence through a website, blog, or social media tailored to your niche.
- Sign up for affiliate programs. Popular platforms include Amazon.co.uk Associates, CJ Affiliate, and Skimlinks. You can also check if a specific brand offers affiliate commissions.
- Write reviews, tutorials, or comparisons that add value and include your affiliate links.
- Use SEO, social media, email marketing, and paid ads to attract an audience.
- Track clicks, conversions, and commissions to optimise efforts.
- Expand to more programs, create diverse content, and leverage analytics to improve results.
Affiliate marketing has no fixed average earnings. This is because income varies based on commission rates and traffic volume. However, Smarter Digital Marketing says new affiliate marketers can earn £636. For experienced ones, their earnings go up to £44,000+ a month.
Kirsty McCubbin is a successful affiliate marketer from Scotland. Over 19 years, she built a thriving career with it. She hasn’t shared her total earnings but she was able to quit her job and travel around the world with her family. Kirsty focused on SEO, PCC, as well as high-demand niches like fashion and holidays. This is what made her stand out and attract clients.
The UK has the largest affiliate market in Europe. You can choose from many affiliate programs, networks, and in-demand niches. And with a strong online shopping culture, there’s potential to earn substantial commissions.
Affiliate marketing has two main challenges. One, you need strong writing and persuasive skills. You must convince your audience that they NEED the product you’re promoting. This also means establishing authority in your niche is crucial. Second, Google updates are prioritising established websites. Your content must show expertise, relevance, and value to compete effectively. Affiliate marketing success is still achievable, but reaching the top is harder today.
4. Social Media Management in UK
To make money with social media management:
- Master platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Understand content creation, algorithms, and analytics.
- Create and manage your own or mock social media accounts to showcase your skills.
- Focus on specific industries or types of clients for better results.
- Find clients through freelancing platforms like PeoplePerHour, Upwork, Fiverr, etc. Or, pitch directly to small businesses and startups.
- Clearly outline your services and pricing so clients know exactly what you provide.
- Keep up with platform trends, algorithm changes, and tools to enhance your services.
- Expand by managing more clients and offering add-on services like ads or strategy development.
Entry-level social media managers in the UK earn around £30K per year. Meanwhile, mid-level to senior positions earn as high as £40K to £60K.
Danielle Theobald offers package pricing. One session costs £150, 5 sessions £500, and 10 sessions £800. With over 140 clients, she earns an estimated £67,000+. She promises to turn views into money on TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest. Her social media skills garnered £4M in sales for her clients in 2023 alone.
Social media managers are not going away. In the UK, the demand is high. 78% of UK businesses say social media improved brand awareness. As a result, more owners are rushing to establish a presence on these platforms and need help.
Planable surveyed 80+ social media managers on the challenges of their jobs. 32.2% said engagement and reach were the biggest issues. 21.8% struggled with evolving trends and algorithms. 12.6% found content creation the hardest. Here are the rest of the results:
You need a great strategy to overcome these challenges, satisfy clients, and earn big. It will take a lot of time and effort. But if you have the skills and determination, you can build a profitable career.
5. Dropshipping in UK
To make money with dropshipping :
- Pick a product category with high demand but manageable competition in the UK.
- Use UK-based suppliers for faster delivery and reliable service. Try Avasam and Spocket.
- Create a professional e-commerce website using platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce. Focus on a clean design and user-friendly navigation.
- Include GBP pricing, VAT compliance, and UK-specific shipping options.
- Promote your products with targeted ads on Google, Facebook, and Instagram. It’s also good to leverage SEO and influencers for localised promotions.
- Analyse your store’s performance and adjust products, pricing, or strategies based on results.
- Offer prompt responses, clear return policies, and timely updates. This encourages positive reviews and repeat customers.
- Expand your product range and audience reach as your business grows. Automate order management for smoother transactions.
Shopify reports that new dropshippers earn between £850 to £1,750 in their first month. Yaguara estimates average monthly earnings to range from £750 to £3,950, with 10%-30% profit margins. When I did dropshipping, my peak income was around £7,741 a month.
A Reddit user says they earn £50K monthly from two dropshipping stores, each making £25K. However, it took them 10 years to reach this level of success. They credit their determination and persistence despite early failures.
According to Spherical Insights, e-commerce sales in the UK are expected to grow by 17.36% from 2021 to 2027. You’ll always have an audience ready to purchase your items online.
Dropshipping has a low entry barrier, which is both a good and bad thing. The advantage is that you can start earning right away. The challenge is dealing with intense competition. You need the best price, product, quality, and shipping speed to attract and keep customers. Another challenge is that you rely heavily on your supplier. You don’t have control of the product. Suppliers might run out of stock without notifying you in time. Delays or mistakes in shipping are beyond your control. And you’ll get the blame for all this.
6. Paid Surveys in UK
To make money with paid surveys:
- Join trusted platforms like Survey Junkie, Prolific, Norstatpanel, or Y Live.
- Provide accurate details about yourself to get matched with relevant surveys.
- Give thoughtful and consistent answers for more survey invites.
- Log in frequently so you don’t miss high-paying surveys.
- Redeem points for cash via PayPal or gift cards once you reach the payout threshold.
Paid surveys are usually for extra side money. One Redditor shares that they earn £5 a week, which they use to cover the cost of dog food. Another one says they earn £11-£15 weekly through Prolific with little effort. Someone else earned £240 from Prolific in just 2 months. And they did it all on their mobile phone!
Prolific and Norstatpanel is where to find high-paying online survey opportunities in the UK. Prolific offers academic tasks that pay between £6 and £8 for every hour of your time. Individual surveys pay £1 to £10, depending on their length and complexity. You can then cash out directly to your PayPal once you earn at least £6. Norstatpanel gives you “Norstat Coins” after you complete a survey. Once you accumulate 150 coins (approximately £15), you get a reward - cash, gift cards, or donations.
With paid surveys, don’t expect to make a full-time income. You’ll need another money-making source. Also, surveys take time, usually 20 minutes to an hour. And it can get quite repetitive and tedious. Besides that, surveys have inconsistent availability. You can go days or weeks without receiving invitations.
7. Online Market Trading in UK
To make money with online market trading:
- Understand key concepts like stocks, forex, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. Check out IG Academy or the London Academy of Trading (LAT) to learn about these.
- Use trusted UK platforms like eToro, IG, or Hargreaves Lansdown.
- Set a budget you can afford. Don’t spend so much money at the start.
- Decide between day trading, swing trading, or long-term investing. Day trading is quick, daily trades for short-term gains. Swing trading holds investments for days or weeks to profit from price changes. Long-term investing grows over months or years with little daily involvement.
- Follow market news and trends to make informed decisions.
- Regularly review your trades and refine your approach.
Glassdoor estimates that stock traders in the UK get an average of £53,197 per year. Meanwhile, crypto trading’s annual range is from £34,000 to £133,000. Junior forex traders earn around £30,000, while experienced ones make up to £130,000. The more knowledge and effort you consistently put in, the higher your earnings.
Ed Seykota earned £11.7M in 12 years from a £4K investment. He used commodities trading and computerised systems. He focused on cutting losses, growing profits, and preserving capital. Today, Ed is known as a top trader. He founded “The Trading Tribe”, where traders discuss their trading emotions and psychology.
Online market trading is a growing opportunity in the UK. Increasing numbers of retail investors are entering the market. Moreover, more people choose self-directed investing, giving them control over their finances. Thanks to digital platforms, accessing financial markets is easier than ever. This shows strong participation and potential for growth in online trading.
However, online market trading involves risks. Market volatility can lead to sudden price changes and unexpected losses. Lack of knowledge usually results in poor decisions, like overtrading or misjudging trends. Also, emotional trading may lead to impulsive actions and losses. For example, a trader panics during a sudden market dip and sells their stocks at a loss. Shortly after, the market recovers but the trader no longer benefits.
8. Cashback Sites in UK
To make money with cashback sites:
- Sign up for reputable UK platforms like Quidco, TopCashback, or KidStart. These cater to UK retailers and offer higher cashback rates for British stores.
- Register on your chosen cashback site. Some sites ask for bank details or PayPal information to process payouts.
- Always access retailer websites via the cashback platform’s link. Use the link to Argos or Tesco to track purchases.
- Prioritise categories like broadband deals, car or home insurance, or big-ticket items. These often have higher cashback rates.
- Earn cashback on everyday essentials like groceries or utilities.
- Once you reach the payout threshold, transfer your cashback to a PayPal or UK bank account. Some platforms also offer higher-value gift card options.
According to Quidco and TopCashback, their members earn an average of £300 and £345 per year. KidStart states that for every £11,034 spent at various retailers, members receive a 1.8% return (£200). Joel Berg on Reddit says he earns £100 - £400 per month. He organised a system to avoid missing cashback opportunities. This includes regularly checking his top 3 sites - Boom25, TopCashback, and Quidco.
When you buy something through cashback links, the retailer pays a commission to the site. The cashback site then shares part of this commission with you. Many UK retailers are partnering with these sites as it boosts customer sales and repeat business. To give you an idea, TopCashback offers a selection of over 6,000 retailers to choose from.
Earning with cashback sites requires time and patience. You must always look for and make eligible purchases. If you don’t shop often, reaching the minimum withdrawal amount can take a long time. Plus, payouts take weeks or even months to process. And the amounts are usually not that big. So don’t expect to earn thousands of pounds with this method. However, it’s a great way to get back some of the money you spend on essentials.
9. Translation Services in UK
To make money with translation services:
- Choose a type of service, including text, voiceover, or subtitling.
- Learn or improve a language often needed for translation to or from English.
- Get translation tools like SDL Trados and MemoQ to streamline the process.
- Create a portfolio showcasing certifications, sample translations, or past projects.
- Research competitive pricing and decide on per-word or hourly rates.
- Use a personal website, LinkedIn, or ads to attract clients.
- Sign up in marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr, or ProZ to find more clients. Or, connect with UK businesses, agencies, and professional groups for referrals.
- Meet deadlines, ensure accuracy, and maintain confidentiality to retain clients and get referrals.
Freelance translator rates range from £50 to £150 for 1K words. More experienced ones charge £100 to £300 per 1K words. This is also possible if you translate rare languages or complex text. You have the freedom to increase your rates as you build your reputation. As an in-house translator, the average earning is £26,096 per year. Extra money from cash bonuses, commission tips, and profit sharing totals £1,727 per year.
Lola F. from London offers English/French translation and voiceover services. She charges clients £40 to £60 per hour. In Upwork alone, she completed 29 hours, bringing her £1,160 to £1,749 from the platform. Lola also promotes her service on Fiverr, Facebook, and other platforms. Today, she has a 100% job success rate and her clients praise her clear and professional voice.
The demand for translation services is increasing, especially in English. As the UK is a leading English-speaking country, people prefer translators from there. Strong skills in the other language give you an edge over someone from a non-English-speaking country.
Running a translation service takes dedication and skill. First, you must be proficient in English and at least one other language. This means understanding the grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances. For voiceovers, native-level fluency is a must. Then, you’ll have to compete against advanced translation tools and technologies. Many businesses prefer using these as it’s cheaper than hiring a translator. Finding a service solution that beats any AI is crucial for success.
10. Freelance Writing in UK
To make money with freelance writing :
- Choose a topic you enjoy or know well, like travel, tech, or health.
- Create samples or write guest posts to showcase your skills in a portfolio.
- Research industry rates and decide on per-word or per-project pricing.
- Join online job marketplaces to connect with potential clients.
- Use social media, a website, or cold emails to promote your services.
- Meet deadlines, write engaging content, and edit thoroughly to keep clients happy.
- Learn SEO, copywriting, or tools like Grammarly to offer more value.
An Indeed UK report shows freelance writers earn a national average of £19 per hour. In England, London and Manchester have the highest hourly rates at £19. The other English cities have rates around £12 to £10 per hour. Scotland reports higher rates at £30.80 per hour, while Wales is the lowest at £11 per hour. These regional differences show how location can influence how much you earn. However, your skills and experience also play a huge role.
Katie Silcox is a British freelance writer in the travel and media industry. At first, she worked for big travel companies such as Lonely Planet and Condé Nast Traveller. This provided a strong foundation for her freelance career. She later decided to take a break from her job - and that’s when she got freelance publication offers. She now writes for different publications, creates guidebooks, and does photo editing. She even has her own travel content agency called Contemporary Class. Thanks to her switch, she now earns a lot more than when she worked with these big companies.
Two statistics prove that freelance writing is in demand in the UK. First, 22% of workers in UK companies are freelancers. Second, UK businesses make over 590,000 monthly searches for freelance content writers. This shows that UK-based companies want freelance writers over full-time staff.
But to succeed, you must be an excellent writer and know how to adapt your style to meet each client’s needs. This includes conversational, persuasive, descriptive, or SEO writing. It will take time to learn all that. You’ll also face competition from talented writers in smaller countries with lower rates. Your writing needs to be exceptional to stand out.
11. Copywriting in UK
To make money with copywriting :
- Study persuasive writing techniques. Mastering the Art of Persuasive Copywriting and Writing That Sells: Crafting Effective Sales Copy are great recommendations.
- Research UK market rates for copywriting and decide on your pricing structure.
- Create persuasive copy samples for your portfolio. This is the perfect opportunity to use your persuasion skills to convince a client to hire you.
- Find clients on online platforms like LinkedIn, PeoplePerHour, and Upwork.
- Write compelling copy that helps clients achieve increased sales, engagement, etc.
- Promote your services through a website or social media for higher-paying clients.
Freelance copywriters earn more than full-time copywriters in the UK. Freelancer salaries average £38,854 per year, while full-time is only £29,792 per year. The reason is that freelancers set their own rates, work with many clients, and take on big projects. On the other hand, writing copy for a company usually has a fixed salary.
Jamie Thomson’s solo business, Brand New Copy, is one of the most successful in the UK. His clients include big names such as Glenfarclas Whisky, Police Lifestyle Brand, and the University of Aberdeen. He also won many awards, including Copywriting Business of the Year 2023. Jamie charges £60 an hour or £500 a day. So if a project takes a week to complete, he earns £2,500 in just 7 days. Jamie is a great example of the incredible potential of a freelance copywriter.
With many UK businesses competing, persuasive copy is crucial. According to HubSpot, effective copywriting boosts sales conversion rates by up to 98%. This is why more business owners are rushing to hire top copywriters.
As a copywriter, there’s pressure to deliver results. Clients expect measurable outcomes like increased sales, conversions, or click-through rates. This means your writing and persuasion skills must be exceptional. If not, you’ll struggle to grow your business. But if you master them, you can reach huge potential earnings.
12. Online Tutoring in UK
To make money with online tutoring:
- Choose a high-demand subject like English, maths, science, or test preparation. GCSE and A-Levels are the most profitable online tutoring niches in the UK.
- Ensure you have relevant qualifications or experience to teach your chosen subject.
- Join platforms like Tutorful, MyTutor, or First Tutors to connect with students.
- Use online tutoring software like Zoom or BitPaper for interactive lessons.
- Tailor sessions to each student’s needs to build a strong reputation.
- Ask satisfied students or parents for feedback or referrals to attract more clients.
- Promote your services through social media, local forums, or a personal website. This gets you higher-paying students.
- Offer group sessions or downloadable study materials to boost income.
Talent.com lists the average annual salary of online tutors in the UK at £46,800. In online forums, many tutors report charging around £25 to £40 an hour and still get many willing students. Startups usually ask for £15/hour but can quickly increase it if they are great teachers.
Dan Jones began his tutoring career at 17, working part-time at a local charity. Inspired by his impact on students, he chose to focus on education. After two years, Dan started his online tutoring agency, JonesTutoring LTD. He built connections with 10,000 students worldwide. So it was easy for him to promote his services and find clients. Besides tutoring, he created an online course that reached over 23K learners. Dan’s current goal is to grow a team of 50-100 tutors for his agency.
Private tutors are very common in the UK. In fact, 25% of British students receive private tuition. This rises to 40% in London, where rich parents want the best education for their children. Thanks to online programs, private tuition is even more accessible and convenient.
Of course, you need to be a skilled and qualified teacher to earn big. However, many don’t realise the importance of strong marketing skills. You’ll need this skill to stand out among the crowd and get as many students as possible. Another challenge is the unpaid hours spent on preparation. Your lessons need to be personalised for each student. This takes up a lot of time without immediate pay. You must love teaching so much to push through all that.
13. Website Design in UK
To make money with website design:
- Master website-building tools like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace. Or, learn coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to offer higher-paying services.
- Focus on in-demand sectors like tradesmen, local shops, or e-commerce.
- Create sample websites or personal projects to showcase your skills.
- Use social media, freelancing platforms, and local directories like Yell to reach clients.
- Join business groups, attend meetups, and leverage LinkedIn to connect with potential clients.
- Upsell maintenance, SEO, or content creation for more pay.
- Deliver exceptional service to encourage satisfied clients to refer you to others.
Entry-level website designers in the UK earn anywhere from £15,000 to £25,000 per year. Mid-level annual salaries are usually £30,000. Web designers with 4-6 years of experience or specialized skills can make up to £50,000+.
Ryan Gittings is a web designer and front-end developer who works with clients across the UK. His rates start at £2,000 for static websites and £2,500 for content-managed websites. He lets potential clients get to know him first to build trust. He also showcases his work on his website to highlight his capabilities. Thanks to this and many positive reviews, Ryan has worked with big names, including the NHS and RHF Fans.
Starting a website design business is great for the high demand in the UK. According to Google search data, ‘web design’ was one of the most searched freelance services in the UK. A Forbes Advisor study found that 22% of small companies in the UK don’t have a website. Plus, many new businesses are popping up, increasing the demand for these services. The great news is that many owners understand the value of an online presence - they just need someone to help.
However, freelance web designers have a tough decision. Tools like WordPress or Squarespace are easy to learn. This makes it a crowded market with hundreds of people offering similar services. On the other hand, a specialised coding service will take a long time to learn. The same goes for additional services like content creation and SEO. You’ll have to choose between tough competition or learning a harder, unique skill. Either way, you always need to know how to market yourself. You can be the best web designer but still have zero clients without this essential skill.
14. Graphic Design in UK
To make money with graphic design:
- Improve your skills in tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Canva.
- Pick your graphic style and service. This includes static, motion, 3D, or interactive designs. Services include logos, social media templates, or illustrated posters.
- Create samples and add them to your portfolio or personal website.
- Find clients through freelance platforms or by reaching out directly to businesses. The latter often leads to higher-paying opportunities.
- Use social media, SEO, email marketing, and local directories to advertise your skills.
- Be responsive, stay organized, and deliver on time.
- Provide upsell services to earn more. Include packages like social media graphics, website assets, or print materials.
- Ask satisfied clients to leave a review or refer you to others to get more clients.
Your income depends on what graphic design and service you provide. For example, one Reddit user says they charge £263 for multi-day bookings. They have over 12 years of experience and offer traditional, static graphics. Another user shares that their daily rates are £300 for general designs and £400 for motion or 3D designs.
The average cost for graphic design services are:
Service Type: | Estimated Cost Range: |
---|---|
Logo Design | £50 - £2,000 |
Brochure Design | £100 - £500 |
Website Design | £500 - £5,000 |
Complete Branding Package | £1,000 - £10,000+ |
Shafia faced challenges when starting her graphic design career. Her parents insisted she become a doctor or engineer. But her fascination with the billboards in London made her want to pursue creative media. Her big break came when she won a student award, which gave her the confidence to follow her passion. Today, Shafia has worked on projects for Facebook London, the BBC, and Venture Arts, to name a few. She’s now successful and offers a range of designs and services, including digital and neon signage, animations, calendars, and campaign designs.
UK businesses need graphic designers. This is because 93% of consumers say visuals influence their buying decisions. Another 83% say that brands with graphics catch their attention more than those with plain text. Despite this, graphic designers were 5th in the UK Shortage Occupation List. With high demand and few graphic designers, now is the best time to offer these services.
It takes a while to become an expert in graphic design, though. You must set aside time to build your skills and get certifications for credibility. Sure, you can start with basic designs, but they won’t pay much. Another challenge is that there are so many creative people out there. You’ll have to find a unique selling point to make clients pick you instead of the other thousands. You need high dedication and passion for creatives to push through and succeed.
15. Video Editing in UK
To make money with video editing:
- Master editing tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve.
- Target a niche like YouTube content, corporate videos, or wedding editing.
- Create sample videos in your niche to showcase your skills.
- Build a brand website to look more professional.
- Find clients on freelance platforms or reach out to UK businesses and creators.
- Share your work on social media and build a following to get more attention. This is especially helpful as videos generate 1,200% more shares than other content.
- Upsell your services with color grading, sound design, or motion graphics.
According to Faster Gig, British freelance video editors usually charge £15 to £35 per hour. The average yearly salary is £27,000, with entry-level in the 20K range and experienced ones in the 40K+ range.
Joe Edits shares his video editing journey on YouTube. He says freelancing isn’t easy, with unreliable clients, changing trends, and seasonal demand. Despite this, he kept doing what he loved - making and editing videos. In January, he earned £1,980, which grew to £4,250 in August. Even during December’s slowdown, he made £3,050. Joe shares his struggles and successes to help other freelancers know what to expect.
90% of marketers report that video marketing boosts ROI and brand awareness. Plus, YouTube is very popular, with 80% of British users visiting the platform daily. This success makes more businesses use videos, creating more demand for skilled editors. And you can take on any project, from editing for influencers to working on brand commercials.
Freelance video editing comes with many challenges, as Joe Edits highlights. One big issue is clients - some don’t respond on time, give unclear instructions, or delay payments. Staying updated with trends, like whether long or short videos work better, is also tough. Another challenge is mastering professional video editing tools. If you’re new to them, it will take time and trial and error to get the hang of it. You must be consistent and deliver quality work to stay on top of everything and earn big.
16. Remote IT Support in UK
To make money with remote IT support:
- Develop remote IT skills such as networking, troubleshooting, cybersecurity, and software support. Get certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, or Microsoft Certified.
- Create a professional website to advertise your services, list your skills, and offer contact details.
- Register on platforms like PeoplePerHour, Upwork, or Fiverr to find clients.
- Advertise on UK-specific classified sites like Gumtree or Yell to attract local clients.
- Reach out to small businesses in your area to offer cost-effective, remote IT services.
- Use social media and SEO to increase your visibility even more.
- Provide clients with excellent service, regular support, and maintenance packages for recurring income.
- Gain more skills to provide tiered packages for different types of IT support.
Glassdoor lists remote support technician salaries in the UK at £21,000 to £32,000 per year. For more advanced services like remote support engineers, they earn an annual average of £24,000 to £37,000. Highly skilled and experienced workers make over £70,000 a year.
Victor O. from Aberdeen already earned £70K+ from Upwork. He’s a technical support engineer specialising in Microsoft 365, Azure, and Windows. People trust him because of his 4 years of experience and ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Implementer license. What’s more, he now has a lot of positive reviews. With 21 people hiring him from the platform, he received a 100% success rate. This shows how masterful he is at what he does.
IT support is a promising career choice as it’s the most outsourced service in the UK. According to ReformIT, at least 34% of businesses outsource it. 83% of IT companies in the UK look to outsource cybersecurity efforts. So no matter your specialisation, it’s easy to find someone who is willing to hire.
However, that means you’ll face a lot of competition. You must stand out with a hyper-focused niche or affordable packages. This field also requires specialised skills. It takes time to build these skills to a level where you can compete with the higher ups. Not to mention, there are a lot of technical challenges you’ll face. For example, troubleshooting complex system errors or configuring advanced software settings. It’s certainly not for everyone.
17. Financial Advisory in UK
To make money as a financial advisor:
- Complete a recognized qualification. Consider the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning (DipPFS) or CeMAP (for mortgage advice).
- Apply for authorisation with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to offer regulated financial advice.
- Gain practical experience by working with an established firm or network. Take this time to build knowledge, credibility, and client relationships.
- Focus on a niche like retirement planning, investments, or mortgages to stand out.
- Start your own advisory business and leverage technology. Use financial planning software and digital marketing to streamline services and reach clients.
- Build a client base through networking, events, or referrals.
- Keep up with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and maintain FCA compliance.
According to Talent.com, freelance financial advisors in the UK make an average of £60K/year. Beginners should expect around £50K/year, while more advanced advisors earn £90K+/year.
Sarah Rudge is a chartered accountant with ICAEW. This means she went through rigorous training, education, and exams from one of the UK’s top institutes. She’s certified to provide expert financial advice, which also boosts her credibility. Because of this, Sarah completed almost 1,000 projects in PeoplePerHour alone. She has 3 package offers that range from £53.50 to £69.60.
In 2022, there were 354,000 financial service jobs created across the UK. This market is projected to grow even more from 2025 to 2029, with an annual growth rate of 2.36%. With these numbers going up, newcomers have a lot of opportunities.
As you might expect, financial advisors need strong credibility and trust with clients. Building this takes a lot of time, which is why it’s a good idea to start with an established firm. Then, there’s regulatory pressures, economic uncertainties, and client expectations. The FCA is also enforcing stricter standards.
18. Freelancing Services in UK
To make money with freelancing services:
- Choose a service to offer (e.g. virtual assistant, video production, proofreading, etc.).
- Build a portfolio with your skills and examples of past work.
- Set up profiles on LinkedIn and other freelance service sites to find clients.
- Promote your services on social media, networking events, and referrals.
- Provide high-quality service to build a reputation and gain new and repeat clients.
The UK National Careers Service gives the average earnings for common freelancing services.
| Proofreader | £22K - £34K Per Year | | Virtual Assistant | £21K - £28K Per Year | | Video Editor | £18K - £45K Per Year | | Content Editor | £22K - £40K Per Year | | Ecommerce Manager | £25K - £60K Per Year |
Louise Richman started working part-time as a virtual assistant in 2011. Over the next 2 years, she did research, built a website, and prepared to transition to full-time VA. In 2013, she launched her agency Indigo Eleven. Louise now has a team to provide her clients with more specialised services. It took her time to find success, but she wasn’t afraid to try new strategies for gaining clients.
Freelancing services in the UK are in high demand as they fill roles many companies avoid. For example, VAs often handle repetitive admin tasks. Video editors must produce many videos to meet the growing need for online video content. More job opportunities are popping up here and there. Even better news, UK freelancers expect their day rates to increase by 12.2% in the coming years.
However, you must expect some financial challenges. For one, you’ll have irregular income as client workloads fluctuate. The cost of living in the UK, especially in big cities, is rising. You’ll have to raise your rates, which some clients won’t like. Another challenge is late payments. The Credit Protection Association (CPA) reports that 40% of UK companies delay pay to freelancers. On top of that, there are work-related, professional development, and business management challenges.
19. Virtual Dog Training in UK
To make money as a virtual dog trainer:
- Get certified with the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT) or Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC). These are the most relevant to virtual training.
- Create a website to explain your service, highlight your skills, and display your certifications.
- Offer services through video calls, webinars, or pre-recorded training sessions.
- Use social media, online ads, and pet-related forums to promote your services.
- Provide different training packages, like one-on-one sessions or group classes.
- Collect testimonials from clients to build trust and credibility.
- Keep learning and stay current on dog training techniques and trends.
ZipRecruiter lists the average annual salary for online dog trainers at £31.8K per year. The 25th percentile is £23.7K/year while the 90th percentile is £47.4K/year. For a relatively new industry, it pays pretty well.
Louise Glazebrook is a leading dog behaviourist and trainer in the UK. She created The Wonder Club Membership to support new dog owners online. The program includes “Just Ask Louise’ sessions, dog behaviour decoding, a bank of training videos, a private FB community, etc… This program has been a great help to dog owners all over the UK and outside. Louise proves success is possible as an online dog trainer if you know your stuff.
Virtual dog training is gaining popularity in the UK. The United Consumer Financial Services named it the fastest-growing sector in pet training. It skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic and shows no signs of slowing down. Dog owners find it more convenient and affordable as it fits their schedules and eliminates travel costs. On your side, you also cut overhead costs linked to physical facilities.
That said, many UK owners are still skeptical about a virtual dog trainer. Others dislike the responsibility of training, especially if they’re busy. It’s also difficult to address behavioural issues on dogs through the screen. Plus, you must adapt new training methods to ensure your service is effective.
20. Virtual Event Planning in UK
To make money as a virtual event planner:
- Improve your event planning skills by offering free services to family or friends. It’s best to specialise in a specific event, like weddings or corporate events, to target a niche.
- Provide services like creating event timelines, coordinating speakers, and managing attendee registrations.
- Build a website to showcase your services, past events, and client testimonials.
- Set up platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Team, or Eventbrite to discuss with your clients.
- Market your skills through social media, paid ads, SEO, networking, referrals, and freelance sites.
- Offer excellent customer service and gather reviews to grow your reputation.
- Keep up with virtual event trends and new technologies to improve your services.
A virtual event planner earns an average base salary of £26K per year. Besides that, they make anywhere from £700 to £5K a year from commissions, tips, and profit sharing.
The Wedding Dolls are a group of ladies who offer virtual wedding planning. They focus on couples who are short on time and budget. They also help couples overseas who plan to have their big day in the UK. After a week of Skype calls, they craft a supplier list and give couples access to their planning tools. They charge £595 for this package and have a lot of happy testimonials.
Virtual event planning is the new trend in the UK, especially for weddings. WedPro found that 73% of couples prefer emailing venues over in-person meetings. BrideBook reports that 93% of couples use digital tools for wedding tasks. This shift to technology makes it easier to offer virtual wedding planning services. Plus, it’s much more convenient and affordable for everyone involved.
However, there are challenges to being fully remote. First, your hands-on control will be very limited. It’ll be harder to ensure everything runs smoothly in real-time. There are communication barriers, too. Virtual spaces sometimes lead to misunderstandings or lack of clarity. It’s required to be a great communicator and listener. Of course, virtual event planning is still relatively new, so expect client skepticism.
21. Website and App Reviewing in UK
To make money reviewing websites and apps:
- Sign up on platforms like UserTesting, Respondent, or TryMyUi. You get paid to test and provide feedback on websites and apps to help improve them.
- Offer review services on freelancing websites like Fiverr, Upwork, or PeoplePerHour. Businesses, developers, and entrepreneurs hire people for honest feedback.
- Apply for beta testing jobs in TestingTime or Researchopinions.co.uk. This focuses on testing pre-launch websites and apps, which require more thorough feedback.
- Start a review blog or YouTube channel and share detailed reviews of websites and apps. Build credibility and monetise it with AdSense, affiliate links, or sponsorships.
- Contact digital marketing or web development agencies to provide professional feedback services. Work together to improve website or app user experience before, during, or after client review.
Website and app reviewing may not provide substantial income, but it’s a great way to earn extra. For TestingTime, expect to make around £10 to £50 per hour, with 30-90 minutes of reviewing. Plus, you get a £5 bonus if you refer a friend and they complete a study. One Quora user earns $30 to $40 (£24.60 to £32.80) a day from TestingTime. They say they get accepted for 3 to 4 tests a day, but that’s not always the case.
New websites and apps are launched daily in the UK. Many more seek to improve user experience to stay competitive. This creates many job opportunities for you. And since this isn’t as common as other freelancing jobs, there’s less competition.
But as you know, this isn’t a full-time job. On reviewing platforms, you might not get new tests for months. Even with clients, user experience improvements are temporary. You’ll always need to find more clients, which takes time and effort. Creating a blog or YouTube channel is the most consistent way to earn with this. However, building an audience and credibility is tough.
22. Online Coaching in UK
To make money as an online coach:
- Pick a specific coaching area you’re good at and have demand. This includes a career coach, life coach, or fitness coach.
- Get certified in your niche to build credibility. Check out The UK College of Life Coaching, Coaching Academy, or Accredited Coach Training Programme (ACTP).
- Create a professional website with booking options, testimonials, and a clear service description.
- Sign up on platforms like Coach.me or Find a UK Coach to attract clients.
- Use social media to share insights, tips, and success stories, engaging potential clients.
- Host free online events to showcase your coaching skills.
- Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews or refer others to build your reputation and client base.
Your salary will depend on what type of online coach you are.
Type of Coach | Hourly Average Rate | Yearly Average Rate |
---|---|---|
Fitness coach | £44.12 | £89,303 |
Executive coach | £124 | £74,400 |
Career coach | £110 | £66,000 |
Life coach | £100 | £60,000 |
Recovery coach | £98 | £58,000 |
Personal development coach | £88 | £52,800 |
Financial coach | £87 | £52,200 |
Relationship coach | £83 | £49,800 |
Chris Bradley built a thriving online coaching business called The Upgraded Coach. Bradley helps fitness professionals grow their businesses through effective marketing strategies. As a personal trainer turned successful businessman, he knows what his clients need. Bradley has 127 clients, 8 coaches, and a #1 Amazon bestseller, Fitness Business Mastery.
As an online coach in the UK, there’s plenty of opportunity thanks to strong statistics. The UK health & wellness coaching industry is expected to grow by 13.6% from 2023 to 2028. That’s a significant increase. Business coaching is also in high demand. 86% of UK companies recover their coaching investments with an average ROI of 600%. More companies and businesses are scrambling to hire effective coaches.
Online coaches need certifications or proof of success to show their expertise. Don’t expect people to trust you right away. Even with the best certificate and proof, it will still be hard to secure clients as it requires their trust. Then, there’s the challenge of competing with established online coaches - not just in the UK, but the world.
23. Selling Stock Photography in UK
To make money selling stock photos:
- Focus on a specific type of photography to master your skill.
- Ensure your photos are high resolutions, well-composed, and meet stock photo platform guidelines.
- Create accounts on popular platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock.
- Upload your photos with appropriate keywords, titles, and descriptions to make them searchable.
- Share your photos on social media, personal websites, or blogs to gain more visibility.
- Regularly upload new photos and diversify your portfolio to cover more categories.
- Monitor which images sell best and adjust your focus based on trends and demand.
- Invest earnings in better equipment or courses to enhance your photography skills.
Shutterstock pays a 15% to 40% commission on each photo sale, usually translating to £0.20 to £0.50 per sale. The more sales you get, the higher your commission rate becomes. Adobe Stock usually pays more, with an average of £0.50 to £2.50 per sale. The average payout for a royalty-free image sale on iStock is between $0.10 and $16.20.
Peter Orsel sells his travel photos on multiple platforms. In his first full year of selling stock photos, he made £1,540. For this, he uploaded 4,500 files over 14 days and spent 3 days setting up his accounts. It doesn’t earn much, but Orsel calls it passive side income. He says he’s still earning even without uploading new photos since the end of 2023.
There is a demand for high-quality visuals for digital content in the UK. According to Wyzowl, almost all businesses now use videos as marketing tools. Stock photos and videos are one of the primary sources people turn to for their content. There’s a good chance your stock photos and videos will sell, earning you a commission.
Stock photos have low earnings per sale, so it’s not reliable as a full-time income. Plus, each photo or video must meet strict requirements to be accepted. There’s also an investment involved, starting with your equipment and the time spent finding subjects to photograph. Additionally, many platforms require a monthly subscription fee to sell your photos. Finally, sales are not guaranteed as you don’t know if people will buy your stock images or not.
24. Proofreading Services in UK
To make money as a proofreader:
- Take a proofreading course such as those offered by the Publishing Training Centre or the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP).
- Create a portfolio by editing samples or volunteering for friends and charities.
- Join freelancing websites to find clients.
- Apply to websites like ProofreadingServices.com or Scribendi, which cater to proofreading jobs.
- Promote your services to local businesses, students, and authors. Use community boards or local Facebook groups to spread the word.
- Join associations like CIEP to connect with professionals and gain access to job boards.
- Accurately proofread documents to satisfy your clients and get positive reviews and referrals.
The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading (CIEP) says the min. rate for proofreaders in the UK is £29.85 per hour. Glassdoor lists freelance proofreaders’ average salary in the UK as £36K per year. Applying to ProofreadingServices.com earns you between £15 and £37 per hour.
Kate Haigh is a successful member of the CIEP. Here, she worked with various clients including publishers, businesses, organizations, and independent authors. She’s proofread and edited books, magazines, journals, websites, research papers, and business documents. With her experience and high client satisfaction, she built her successful brand, Kateproof.
It might not seem like it, but proofreading is a highly needed service. Content with proper spelling and grammar boosts reader retention and engagement. It’s no wonder why 75% of businesses emphasize quality content. Plus, the booming self-publishing sector is creating more opportunities for UK proofreaders.
The biggest challenge you’ll face is attracting clients in a crowded market. You must find a unique offer to stand out. It’s hard to set competitive rates, too, as people often undervalue the work. You may have to accept lower pay than the job deserves. Managing demanding clients is another challenge. It’s longer to submit content due to constant revisions or excessive picky details. You must also have strong attention to detail and know when to edit or leave the work unchanged.
25. Data Entry in UK
To make money as a data entry specialist:
- Master data entry tools like Excel, Google Sheets, and database software.
- Create a resume highlighting your attention to detail and software knowledge and experience. It’s good to have a portfolio to showcase your work or testimonials (if any).
- Apply for remote data entry jobs on platforms like Reed, Indeed, or We Work Remotely.
- Join websites like PeoplePerHour, Fiverr, or Upwork to find freelance data entry gigs.
- Use LinkedIn or other social media to connect with potential clients or employers.
- Meet deadlines, double-check your work, and ensure accuracy to build your reputation.
Jooble UK reports that a freelance data entry specialist makes £52.5K a year. They also report the monthly earnings as £4,375, weekly earnings as £1,010, and hourly earnings as £25.94. A data entry clerk, who deals with more basic, administrative tasks, has an average salary of £26.3K per year.
Elizabeth M from Glasgow offers her data entry services in Upwork. She’s adaptable to any requirements and ensures a quick turnaround. But what makes her stand out is her problem-solving, management, and people skills. With this, she completed 47 projects, with a total of 1,186 hours and £30K earnings. Elizabeth also receives a lot of praise from her clients.
In today’s fast-paced business environment, up-to-date and accurate data is critical. Businesses and entrepreneurs use this for decision-making and strategic planning. Skilled data entry professionals are needed to handle the influx of information. What’s more, data entry spans across sectors, including finance, healthcare, retail, and tech.
However, doing administrative tasks gets quite mundane. And the pressure to get everything right and on time can lead to quick burnout. Although it’s a vital role, it isn’t the most satisfying. For low-skilled roles, there’s also the risk of being replaced by automation and AI tools.
26. Selling Stock Music in UK
To make money with stock music:
- Compose tracks using music software like GarageBand, FL Studio, or Ableton Live. Add instruments, beats, and effects to make them unique.
- Sign up on sites like Pond5, AudioJungle, AudioSparx UK, Synchedin, and PremiumBeat.
- Offer multiple licensing options (standard, extended, and exclusive).
- Use clear, searchable titles, relevant keywords, and detailed descriptions for discoverability.
- Upload previews on YouTube with links to purchase.
- Share tracks on social media and relevant forums.
- Upload music to different stock libraries for broader reach.
- Track sales and analytics to identify best-selling genres.
- Regularly update and improve your portfolio.
There are no set earnings from stock music. It will all depend on your platform and track sales or licenses. To give you an idea, one Reddit user earned $1,000 (£800) in over one month. However, they claim they were lucky to have a ghost producer friend. Daniel Carrizalez, founder of stockmusiclicensing.com makes $500 to $1,000 (£400 to £800) per month. It isn’t much, but it’s a good and fun side income.
Selling stock music in the UK is great as many sectors now use it. This includes TV, films, ads, video games, and corporate productions. There’s also increasing revenue from licensing music. PR Newswire reports that the stock music industry is expected to grow at an annual rate of 8.09% from 2024 to 2028. What’s more, music production technology and digital distribution have simplified creating and sharing.
The stock music market is very saturated. You must know how to market your music to compete with other musicians. Worse, the most common types of music that people buy are very generic. This will clash with your desire to create unique and different tracks. But then, you shouldn’t make it too similar to the others. The UK has strict copyright laws governed by the Copyright, Design and Patents Act 1988. Lastly, you must choose both quality and quantity to earn a decent side income.
27. Business Consulting Services in UK
To make money as a business consultant:
- Specialise in a specific business area, including marketing, operations, or finance.
- Gain relevant certifications, training, and experience. Attend industry workshops, complete online courses, take on smaller consulting jobs, etc.
- Build an online presence with a professional website and social media. Showcase your services, case studies, and testimonials.
- Network and market yourself through events, LinkedIn, and local business partnerships.
- Provide excellent consulting services and ask for testimonials and referrals.
In the UK, business consultants make a yearly average of £38K. For freelance consultants, expect to make around £28.3K per year. Your service rates increase the more experience and testimonials you gain. Senior business consultants in the UK usually earn over £70K.
Kevin Ellis earns an estimated £4.4M. He started off as a consultant for PwC UK and worked there for over 30 years. Ellis specialises in crisis management support for public and private businesses. He led many companies to double in size. He is now the chairman and senior partner of PwC UK. Through his leadership, PwC UK became one of the top consulting firms in the world.
Business consulting firms in the UK earn billions of pounds every year. This shows that British companies are always hiring consultants for various business needs. If you work for one of these firms, you’re sure to have a stable and lucrative career. Even if you decide to go freelance, there’s still a lot of opportunity. UK entrepreneurs value benefits like cost efficiency, flexibility, specialised expertise, and diverse perspectives.
But becoming an established business consultant is a long and winding road. It takes a lot of time and effort to gain experience, build a network, and develop a strong reputation. You must constantly learn, adapt, and prove your value to clients. It’s not for the faint-hearted.
28. Paid Advertising Services in UK
To make money with paid advertising services:
- Master platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, and Instagram Ads.
- Complete the Google Ads Certification or Facebook Blueprint Certification to build credibility.
- Set up campaigns for businesses looking to improve online visibility. Focus on brand awareness, lead generation, sales conversions, or local business promotion.
- Provide results to your clients to ensure they stay with you or refer you to others.
- Use case studies or testimonials to prove your success and attract more clients.
LYFE Marketing reports that PPC services usually charge £1,200 to £8,000 per month. Services specialising in social media ads ask for a monthly fee between £700 to £16,000. The yearly average earnings for PPC and social media advertising specialists is £33K - £34K and £28K - £60K.
I’ve tried my hand at paid advertising from 2017 to 2019. I spent £80,400 on ads for my Facebook marketing agency. This generated a monthly income of £2,400. I’m not the most successful paid advertiser out there, but this proves you can earn with this model.
Digital advertising is the leading way to promote a business today - and paid ads prove to be very effective. According to WordStream, PPC advertising offers an impressive average ROI of 200%. So for every $1 spent on ads, businesses make $2. It also converts 50% more than organic advertising. This is why businesses are looking to hire ad experts to help them boost their revenue and growth.
The downside is that your success depends on measurable results. Clients expect a clear return on investment (ROI). They may stop working with you if your ads don’t generate enough leads or sales. So you’ll always have to update ads, optimise campaigns, and keep up with the algorithm changes. You’re also at risk from “ad fatigue”, where consumers ignore ads due to overexposure.
29. Website Developing in UK
To make money by developing websites:
- Gain skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other relevant technologies.
- Create a few sample websites to showcase your work.
- Specialise in industries like e-commerce or local businesses to target a specific audience.
- Build your own professional website to promote your services and attract potential clients.
- Find clients through social media, forums, freelance platforms, local events, or networking.
- Provide maintenance and update services to generate recurring income.
- Improve your skills by learning about new technologies, trends, and best practices.
In London, freelance junior web developers make around £25K to £40K per year. Freelance developers with over 5 years of experience earn £60K to £80+ per year. The national yearly average earning is £32.6K.
Kevin Techn, a British freelance web developer, offers his packages at £160, £270, and £800. His services include full-stack website development from scratch, covering both frontend and backend. He integrates any features clients want. With 6 years of experience, expertise, and 5-star reviews, many clients want to hire him.
Nowadays, a business needs a website to get more customers or clients. This is because 81% of consumers research online before buying. What’s more, 89% of UK shoppers buy products and services online. Since building a website is challenging, businesses often hire web developers. Plus, many prefer freelancers for their cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and personalised service.
Web development technology is evolving at lightning speed. You must constantly learn new tools and adapt to AI-driven coding innovations. If you slack, you’ll be left behind. Website performance also has high expectations. If it doesn’t load quickly or provide a seamless user experience, users will abandon it. This results in poor website performance and will disappoint your clients.
30. Bookkeeping Services in UK
To make money as a bookkeeper:
- Obtain a Level 2 or 3 qualification from the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT), the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB), or the International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB). If you have experience, consider a fast-track route or certification.
- Sign up with His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for self-employed assessment. Or, set up a limited company for tax benefits.
- Apply for a practice license if working independently.
- Get professional indemnity insurance and register with the Information Commissioner’s Office for data protection.
- Master accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, or FreeAgent.
- Find clients on Bark and PeoplePerHour, network locally, and create a website.
- Provide other services such as tax returns, payroll management, and cash flow forecasting. This is a way to increase earnings.
- Stay updated on tax laws, file self-assessments, and meet anti-money laundering requirements.
On average, UK bookkeepers ask for £12 to £25 per hour. You can ask for more if you choose an on-demand specialisation. Those in the finance field usually make £20 to £30 per hour, healthcare bookkeeping £18 to £28, and tech roles £22 to £32. Overall, the annual average ranges from £18K to £60K+.
Robert Couser charges around £60 to £80 per hour. He also offers packages that cost between £100 to £270. He’s often hired despite the high cost due to his extensive experience. For 15 years, he worked for accountancy firms and industries. During that time, he became an expert in many different skills. When he switched to freelance, he completed a total of 86 jobs on Upwork, has a 100% success rate, and 5 star reviews.
According to Learnsignal, the UK has 37,000 bookkeeping job openings each year. The Institute of Certified Bookkeepers reports that the industry earns above-average UK salaries. What’s more, a 2024 survey found that 60% of UK bookkeepers are expecting income increase in the next year. There’s a lot of great opportunities for you in this country.
To offer bookkeeping services in the UK, you have to go through a lot of requirements. This includes a recognised qualification, HMRC registration, practice license, and indemnity insurance. You must also be highly skilled and updated on all VAT rules, MTD regulations, and tech adaptation. Then, of course, you must build a lot of trust as you’ll be dealing with people’s finances. It will be challenging to enter the market.
31. Digital Public Relation (PR) Services in UK
To make money as a digital public relations (PR) specialist:
- Learn media relations, crisis management, social media, content creation, SEO, and reputation management.
- Specialise in specific industries, such as health, tech, corporate, or lifestyle. Tailoring your services to a niche makes you more attractive to potential clients.
- Build a portfolio with personal projects, local businesses, or online brands. Showcase your work with case studies, social media campaigns, and digital content.
- Connect with potential clients on LinkedIn, local networking events, or online job boards. Reach out to businesses that need PR support and offer a free consultation or proposal.
- Build a list of influencers and digital media outlets. Pitch tailored content for ongoing online coverage.
- Track press coverage, watch trends, and make sure your clients are always in the spotlight. Use tools like Google Alerts, PR distribution platforms, and social media for this. These measure the impact of PR campaigns and prove ROI to clients.
- Establish long-term relationships with clients by offering retainer packages for continuous PR work. Provide regular content creation, social media management, SEO strategies, and online brand-building.
PR Week reports that freelancers actually earn more than in-house PR specialists. The average daily rate for in-house roles is £123, while freelancers earn £170 to £180. If you decide to do freelance, expect to make between £44K to £60K+ per year.
Refinery29 showcased a story about a successful woman in freelance PR management. She chose to stay anonymous, but provided all her work details. From 2012 to 2016, she worked in several PR and branding agencies. Her salary went from £18K to £51K per year during this time. However, when she switched to freelance PR, she earned a staggering £80K per year. And she loves that she gets to be her own boss and pick her clients.
PR today is not what it used to be. Now, it combines traditional PR with content marketing and SEO strategies. If you think public relations is only for celebrities or big brands, that’s not true. Many businesses hire PR specialists to handle their online visibility, credibility, and reputation. It’s a powerful way to build trust and attract more opportunities for them. In turn, PR specialists can build a successful career in the UK.
It’s challenging to manage online reviews, social media comments, and negative content. You must quickly address concerns and crises to protect your client’s reputation. Navigating the diverse and often fragmented UK media landscape is also challenging. You need to build relationships with various journalists, publications, and influencers across sectors. Then, the UK is made up of diverse regions with distinct cultural norms and sensitivities. Tailoring PR strategies to different regions and demographics requires careful consideration.
32. Virtual Yoga Instruction in UK
To make money as a virtual yoga instructor:
- Complete a recognized yoga teacher training course to become a certified instructor. Check out Yoga Alliance or any local UK studios.
- Decide on a specific style or focus, such as Vinyasa, Hatha, or yoga for beginners.
- Create a website or use platforms like Zoom, YouTube, or social media to host classes.
- Offer free or discounted classes to build trust and credibility.
- Use social media, local online communities, and yoga-specific platforms to advertise your services.
- Offer packages, subscriptions, or one-on-one sessions for consistent income.
- Engage with clients to build a loyal community and encourage referrals.
Online yoga instructors generally earn less than other types of yoga instructors. They only make an average of £16 per session. However, it’s the most convenient and easy to set up. Plus, you can offer virtual classes to a group. So if you get 10 clients, you’ll earn £160 per session. According to OriGym, the average salary for a virtual yoga instructor is £52.5K.
Jacqueline Farrant is a popular yoga teacher on Live Teacher Yoga. She focuses on calmness and connectedness through Somatic, Yin, Breathwork, Hatha, and Nidra. Her students love her gentle and meditative teaching style. Farrant ’s 30 minute online classes only cost £5. With around 1.6K visitors to the site, many people take advantage of these affordable classes.
Yoga instructors are on demand in the UK as over 6.5% of the population take part in yoga classes. So much so that the government included it in the UK’s Skilled Worker Visa program in April 2024. Not only will you have a lot of opportunities, it’s also a fulfilling job. You’ll experience personal growth and happiness by positively impacting others.
With so much free online content, keeping students committed to paid classes is tough. What’s more, if people are going to pay, many still prefer in-person classes. It’s harder to build rapport, engage students, and demonstrate poses, too. You must find a way to offer unique value and make your virtual yoga classes stand out.
33. Print on Demand in UK
To make money with print-on-demand:
- Select your products’ target market or theme (e.g., custom t-shirts, mugs, phone cases).
- Create unique designs using tools like Canva or hire a designer.
- Use Printful, Printify, or Redbubble to upload and sell products.
- Build your own website or use marketplaces like Etsy or Shopify to sell your products.
- Attract customers through social media, SEO, and paid ads.
- Respond to inquiries and manage orders efficiently.
- Monitor product performance and update designs or products to meet customer demands.
There is no fixed average income since earnings vary for each person. To give you an idea, let’s look at some people’s earnings from print-on-demand.
Greg Gottfried says he has 100 print designs selling for £1.61 to £8.05. He usually makes around 20 sales a month, so his monthly income is anywhere from £32.20 to £161.
Hannah Ebeling shared her income in the first month of doing print-on-demand. She made £95.95 on the platform Spring. 50% of her customers came from social media and the other half from the platform’s organic traffic. On the Redbubble platform, she earned £91.20 in the first 30 days. What amazed her was that all her customers there were 100% organic searches.
In the UK, there’s a growing trend for customized or themed clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Plus, people are no longer afraid to buy products online. In fact, 91% of UK residents made an online purchase in 2024. With these two factors, a print-on-demand business is profitable in the country.
However, you’ll need to stand out in a competitive market to succeed. You must also find a profitable niche and know how to market your products. And for all your efforts, there’s no guarantee that you will earn a full-time income.
34. Online Dating Consulting in UK
To make money as an online dating consultant:
- Consider getting a certification in relationship coaching to build credibility. Programs like The Coaching Academy’s Certified Relationship Coach are a good option.
- Target specific groups like professionals, divorcees, or Gen Z to stand out.
- Set up a professional website to showcase your services, qualifications, and contact details.
- Design consultation packages for profile creation, messaging tips, dating strategies, and more.
- Use social media to share dating advice and attract clients.
- Partner with online dating sites or apps to offer your services directly to their users.
- Run online workshops or webinars on dating strategies to reach a wider audience.
ZipRecruiter reports that an online dating consultant’s average annual salary is £49.3K. However, the range goes from £23K all the way to £118K. The more experience and testimonials you have, the higher you can charge.
Hayley Quinn is a successful British dating coach for both men and women. She offers tailored online coaching focused on confidence, attraction, and modern dating. She even has a one-on-one package for the highest level of personal advice. A lot of her clients praise how they have a much better dating life or dating options after working with Hayley. She became so popular that she was featured in the BBC and The Independent.
In the UK, 38% of Gen Z feel pressured to date but struggle with modern dating. Another statistic shows that 74% of millennials and Gen Z use dating apps to find love. As an online dating consultant, use these insights to promote your services. Remember, many want to find love but don’t know how. You will be the one to help them find it.
It may take some convincing to get clients, as hiring a dating coach isn’t common in the UK. Others may feel uncomfortable with someone guiding who they date or how they date. On your side, there are ethical challenges too. You need to balance helping clients find success with responsible matchmaking. Don’t just push people into relationships to claim success.
35. Blogging in UK
To make money blogging:
- Choose a niche you’re interested in, like travel, finance, or lifestyle. This is important to keep you motivated to write.
- Set up your blog using WordPress, Wix, or similar platforms.
- Write informative, engaging posts that solve problems or answer questions about your topic.
- Use keywords and optimize your content to rank higher on search engines.
- Grow an audience through SEO, social media, paid ads, and email marketing.
- Monetize your blog using affiliate marketing, AdSense, or sponsored posts.
- Sell digital products, courses, or consulting services to increase earnings.
- Use analytics tools to monitor traffic, income, and audience engagement. Adjust strategies as needed.
One survey found that 16% of UK bloggers make less than £200 per month. 8% earned a monthly average of £1,500 to £2,000. The remaining 76% make anywhere from £200 to £1,000 a month. There are also instances where UK bloggers make five to six figures every month.
Lynn Beattie, owner of the blog Mrs MummyPenny, reached the six-figure mark for her blog. In her first full year of blogging in 2016, she made £4,889. Seeing that it actually generated money, she worked even harder on her blog in year 2. By the end of 2017, her income grew to £27.8K. It only went up from there until she earned six figures every year. She gets most of her money from sponsored posts.
A SerpWatch survey found that 40% of British bloggers have 1K to 10K visitors, and 10% have 50K+ visitors. This shows that people are still reading blogs in 2025. What’s more, people read blogs to assess credibility. If you write with authority, they’ll trust you and be more likely to buy what you promote or sell.
There are thousands of blogs published every minute. SEO is oversaturated. There’s a good chance only a few people, or no one, will see your blog. According to Truehost UK, 81% of bloggers don’t make more than £80, while 69% don’t earn anything at all. You need to know how to get your content out there and engage an audience.
36. Selling Arts and Crafts in UK
To make money selling arts and crafts:
- Master your craft, whether it’s handmade jewelry, painting, pottery, or another art form.
- Set up an online store using your own website, Etsy, Folksy, Shopify, or TikTok Shop.
- Attract buyers by promoting your products through social media, SEO, and craft fairs.
- Register as self-employed, comply with UK tax laws, and choose reliable shipping options.
- Offer commissions, workshops, or digital downloads to increase income.
You either earn a few pence or thousands of pounds by selling your arts and crafts. Kim Blythe on Folksy says she earns enough to buy supplies for her needlework hobby and a few treats. One Reddit user reports that they make £1K-£1.5K per month through Etsy and £3K-£5K through Shopify. Another Redditor says they used to earn £70K per year but now only make £7K. They blame this on Brexit taxes, increased competition, and the economic downturn.
Selling your arts and crafts is a good idea as 73% of British people buy handmade goods. Even better, more Brits now buy crafts online - three times as many as 10 years ago. This shows that it has a strong consumer demand in the country.
But that doesn’t mean you don’t have to put in any effort. To earn big, you must find a profitable niche, make unique and quality crafts, and promote them well. You’ll face logistical challenges since you’re dealing with physical products. This includes packaging, shipping delays, and returns. You need strong business and management skills to overcome this. Then, of course, you need to find a way to make people choose your crafts over others’.
Conclusion: Why Is Local Lead Generation the Best Way to Earn Money in UK?
Local lead generation is the best way to earn money in UK as it provides high, steady, and passive income. For one rented-out site, you receive £400 to £2,700 every month. If you’re renting out 5 home service websites, your monthly revenue is between £2,000 and £13,500. The best part is that the sites need very little maintenance once ranked. So you’re basically earning without doing anything much.
Making money in the UK has many challenges and risks. This includes market saturation, high startup costs, consistent effort, market reliance, and building credibility and trust. Local lead generation offers a solution to all that:
- It has low competition as you’re targeting home services in specific locations. Your competitors are local home service companies, and most lack a strong online presence. This makes it easier and quicker to rank your websites.
- The only necessary costs are the website domain and hosting. You’ll spend around £40 to £80 for a basic site. If you’re hiring freelance writers for content, salaries will range from £50 to £250 per article. For a crash course on local SEO, you can find free resources online or spend less than a hundred for a paid course. But again, these are optional.
- All your effort is focused at the start. Building, ranking, and renting out websites usually take 6-12 months. After that, the ongoing effort is minimal. Just the occasional content updates, monitoring SEO performance, and maintaining communication with renters.
- Home services in the UK are here to stay. From 2024 to 2032, the market is expected to grow 8.90% yearly. Homeowners will always need home services, and companies will always look for customers. Your local lead generation business bridges the gap between the two.
- Building trust and credibility is important but not essential. This is because you’re offering a website that’s already generating traffic - targeting people specifically searching for that home service in the area. These are high-quality leads you can showcase to potential clients. Let them try it out, and if they don’t see results, they’re free to back out.
As someone in local lead generation , I can vouch for it. 7 months in the business, I was already making more than my 9-5 job. It was exciting too. I remember the joy and satisfaction when my first website ranked. Then, I got my first client. Now, with over 10+ websites, I can relax more and enjoy £39K monthly.

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Ippei Kanehara
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$52K per month providing lead generation services to small businesses
Ippei.com is for digital hustlers, industry leaders and online business owners.
His #1 online business recommendation in 2024, is to build your own lead generation business.