Summer Job Ideas for Teachers That Make Extra Income

Hi There! Are you a teacher looking to make some extra cash this summer?

I totally get it—teaching is rewarding, but those summer months can leave your wallet feeling a little too light.

Just the other day, I was chatting with a teacher friend who told me she’s on the hunt for a summer job, and let’s be real, she’s not alone!

From Pexels by Max Fischer

Summer break is the perfect time to earn some side income without the stress of lesson planning or grading papers.

If you’re a teacher looking to fill your pockets while still enjoying some downtime, you’re in luck!

I’ve rounded up 13 fantastic summer job ideas for teachers that make extra income. These jobs are flexible, fun, and perfect for educators.

How Easy It Is for Teachers to Find Extra Income

Teachers have a unique advantage when it comes to finding summer jobs.

With strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to organize information, you can easily transition into various side gigs.

Many employers love hiring teachers because of their reliability and expertise in working with people.

Whether you prefer working from home, outdoors, or in a new learning environment, there’s a perfect summer job waiting for you!

1. Private Tutoring

One of the easiest ways for teachers to earn extra cash is by offering private tutoring.

You can advertise your services to parents and students in your community or join platforms like Wyzant or VIPKid.

Set your own rates, choose your schedule, and teach subjects you already know and love.

Whether it’s helping kids with summer school or prepping students for the next grade, tutoring is a flexible and rewarding option. Plus, you can do it in person or online!

• Set your own schedule and rates.
• Work from home or in a local library.
• No extra training needed—just your expertise.
• Build long-term relationships with students.
• High demand, especially before school starts.

2. Teaching English Online

If you love teaching but want to do it from the comfort of your home (or even while traveling), teaching English online is a fantastic option.

From Pexels by Kampus

Companies like Cambly, and EF Education First are always looking for native English speakers to teach students abroad.

You don’t need to create lesson plans, just follow the provided curriculum.

Most classes are one-on-one, making it a relaxed and personal teaching experience. Best of all, you can work as much or as little as you want!

• Work from anywhere with internet access.
• No need to plan lessons—curriculum is provided.
• High hourly pay compared to other side jobs.
• Meet students from around the world.
• Flexible hours, perfect for summer.

3. Summer Camp Counselor

Love working with kids but want a break from the classroom setting?

Summer camps are always looking for enthusiastic counselors to lead activities and supervise children.

Many camps focus on different interests like sports, arts, or science, so you can choose one that matches your passion.

This job is great for teachers who enjoy being active and spending time outdoors. Plus, you might even get free lodging and meals at overnight camps!

• Get paid to have fun with kids.
• Spend time outdoors and stay active.
• Free lodging and meals for overnight camps.
• Build new leadership and teamwork skills.
• Perfect way to make summer memories.

4. Freelance Writing

If you have a knack for writing, why not turn your skills into extra income?

From Pexels by Judit Peter

Many websites and businesses need blog posts, educational content, and marketing materials.

You can find freelance writing gigs on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or ProBlogger.

Since you can work from anywhere, it’s a great way to earn money without leaving your house. Plus, writing about your expertise in education can be a lucrative niche!

• Work from anywhere, anytime.
• No upfront costs to start.
• Choose topics you enjoy writing about.
• Great for building an online presence.
• Passive income opportunities if you start a blog.

5. Selling Educational Resources

If you’ve created worksheets, lesson plans, or classroom activities, why not sell them online? Platforms like Teachers Pay Teachers allow educators to earn passive income by sharing their materials.

Simply upload your resources, set a price, and get paid every time someone downloads them.

The more high-quality resources you provide, the more you can earn over time. It’s a great way to monetize work you’ve already done!

• Earn passive income with little effort.
• Help other teachers while making money.
• No ongoing commitment required.
• Work on it at your own pace.
• Can become a long-term side business.

6. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

If you love animals, pet sitting or dog walking can be a fun and easy way to earn extra income.

From Pexels by Blue Bird

Websites like Rover and WagWalking! make it simple to connect with pet owners in need of help.

Whether it’s taking dogs on daily walks or pet sitting while owners are on vacation, this job is both flexible and enjoyable.

You set your own rates, choose your schedule, and get to spend time with adorable pets.

• Choose your own clients and schedule.
• Get paid to play with pets.
• Stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
• No experience required—just love for animals.
• Great demand, especially in summer.

7. Test Scoring and Online Grading

Teachers are perfect for test scoring jobs, which often peak during the summer.

Companies like Pearson and Write Score hire educators to grade essays, standardized tests, and other assessments.

This job allows you to work from home and set your own hours, making it a stress-free way to earn extra income.

Since the work is seasonal, it fits perfectly into a teacher’s summer schedule. All you need is an internet connection and attention to detail!

• Work from home with flexible hours.
• No need for lesson planning or teaching.
• Extra income without long-term commitment.
• Utilize your grading skills efficiently.
• Great way to stay engaged in education.

8. Retail or Customer Service Jobs

Many retail stores and customer service positions offer seasonal summer jobs that are perfect for teachers.

From Pexels by Kampus

Companies often hire extra staff for back-to-school season, making it easy to find work in clothing stores, bookshops, or call centers.

While it may not be a long-term career move, it’s a straightforward way to earn extra cash.

Plus, working in a bookstore or office supply store might even give you discounts on classroom supplies for the upcoming school year.

If you enjoy working with people, this could be a great fit!

• Gain retail experience with flexible hours.
• Employee discounts on useful products.
• Opportunity to earn bonuses or commissions.
• Great for networking and gaining new skills.
• A steady paycheck during summer break.

9. Virtual Assistant

Teachers are great at organization, communication, and time management—skills that make for a fantastic virtual assistant.

Many small businesses, bloggers, and entrepreneurs need help with emails, scheduling, and social media management.

You can find VA jobs on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and Facebook groups.

It’s a great way to work from home while earning a steady side income. Plus, you can specialize in education-related businesses if that’s your comfort zone!

• Work remotely with flexible hours.
• No teaching required—just organization skills.
• Opportunity to earn a long-term income.
• Perfect for tech-savvy teachers.
• Wide variety of industries to work in.

10. Event Planning or Wedding Coordination

Summer is the peak season for weddings and events, and many planners need extra hands to help with coordination.

From Pexels by Rdne

If you love organizing and working with people, this could be a fun and rewarding summer job.

You can assist with decorations, scheduling, and making sure everything runs smoothly.

Reach out to local event planners or venues to see if they need summer help. It’s a unique way to make extra money while enjoying beautiful events!

• Exciting, fast-paced work environment.
• No formal experience needed to start.
• Network with event industry professionals.
• Opportunity to turn it into a business.
• Get paid to be part of special celebrations.

11. Farm or Agricultural Work

If you enjoy the outdoors and don’t mind physical labor, seasonal farm jobs can be a great summer gig.

Many farms hire extra hands for harvesting, farmers' markets, or agritourism activities.

This is a great opportunity to work with nature, stay active, and even learn new skills.

Look for jobs at local farms, orchards, or wineries for seasonal employment. It’s perfect for teachers who want a break from screens and classrooms!

• Spend time outdoors and stay active.
• Learn about farming and sustainability.
• Enjoy fresh produce and farm perks.
• Seasonal work with good pay.
• Great for those who love hands-on work.

12. Lifeguarding or Swim Instructor

If you know how to swim well, consider becoming a lifeguard or swim instructor at a local pool or beach.

From Pexels by Cassiano Psomas

Many community centers, resorts, and private swim schools need certified instructors for summer programs.

You may need CPR certification, but training is often provided. It’s a great way to stay active while earning a decent summer income.

Plus, who doesn’t want to get paid while spending time by the water?

• Stay fit and active while working.
• Enjoy a fun and social work environment.
• High demand during summer months.
• Great for those who love the water.
• Potential for recurring seasonal work.

13. House Sitting

House sitting is one of the easiest ways to make money while barely lifting a finger!

Homeowners going on vacation need someone to look after their property, water plants, and sometimes care for pets.

You can find house-sitting gigs through sites like TrustedHousesitters or simply by word of mouth.

Some gigs even come with free lodging, making it a great option if you want a mini getaway while earning cash.

It’s a stress-free way to earn money while enjoying a change of scenery!

• Get paid to relax in a new environment.
• Very little work required.
• Free accommodations in some cases.
• Great for quiet, independent workers.
• Easy to find gigs through word of mouth.

Wrapping Up: The Perfect Summer Gig

Teachers work hard all year, so finding a summer job that fits your schedule and skills is key.

Whether you want to tutor, teach online, or explore creative ventures like writing or selling lesson plans, there are plenty of ways to boost your income without feeling overworked.

The best part? Many of these summer jobs can turn into year-round income streams if you find something you love.

So why not take advantage of your skills and make this summer both productive and profitable?

Leah Espinosa

Blogger

A single mom of 4 who loves productivity, marketing, and selling. Passionate about cooking, storytelling, and finding inner peace in every life’s adventures.