1 in 3 U.S. workers weigh quitting jobs for side hustles: FlexJobs
GUAYNABO, PUERTO RICO — Amid ongoing debates over remote work, rising inflation, and economic uncertainties, a portion of U.S. workers are considering abandoning traditional full-time jobs in favor of more flexible, freelance, and entrepreneurial roles.
According to a recent survey by FlexJobs and Remote.co, 41% of professionals are contemplating leaving their primary employment to focus on side hustles, attracted by the potential for better financial opportunities and improved work-life balance.
Key findings from the FlexJobs report
The survey, conducted among 2,293 U.S.-based professionals from February 4 to February 18, aimed to explore workers’ financial motivations and career decisions amidst challenges like return-to-office mandates and job market competitiveness.
Results indicate an interest in side hustles, with 61% of participants reporting past or current engagement in supplementary jobs to boost their income.
“With the career landscape rapidly changing and remote work remaining a top priority to the majority of workers, we’re seeing professionals across experience levels actively seeking ways to improve their financial situation and work-life balance through highly strategic job moves, including freelancing and entrepreneurship,” said Toni Frana, Career Expert Manager at FlexJobs and Remote.co.
Financial thresholds and career transitions
The majority of survey respondents expressed the need for their side hustle income to approach or match their current salaries before considering a full transition.
Specifically, 57% require their side income to constitute at least 75% of their current earnings to make the switch. The survey also highlighted a growing trend towards redefining financial success, with 51% associating it with earning between $100,000 and $250,000 annually.
“Side hustles can be a profitable stream of income, but they require workers to have a solid financial foundation in place,” Frana added.
“This Financial Literacy Month, we encourage workers to assess their risks, know the market, build a solid emergency fund, and create a detailed budget before they make the leap to a full-time side hustle.”
FlexJobs’ top 5 lucrative side hustles for 2025
FlexJobs has unveiled its list of the 30 most promising side hustles for 2025. These remote opportunities offer professionals the flexibility to earn additional income while maintaining their primary careers.
- Curriculum Writer leads with an average hourly rate of $33.51, developing engaging educational content and training materials for various institutions.
- Project Manager follows closely at $29.18 per hour, coordinating teams and ensuring project completion within specified parameters.
- Executive Assistant earns an average of $24.62 hourly, providing high-level administrative support and managing crucial communications.
- Writer commands $24.99 per hour, creating diverse content from technical documentation to creative pieces.
- Resume Writer rounds out the top five at $24.00 per hour, crafting professional documents that help job seekers stand out.
