As you grow older, you’re continually acquiring new skills and demonstrating increased responsibility each day. It’s time to reward that with new ways to make some extra cash.
A world of opportunities awaits 13-year-olds eager to step out and begin working. These side hustles and summer jobs will help you build character, gain work experience, and grow your bank account. But first, you need to find the right gig for you.
In this blog, we’re going to highlight different jobs you can do at 13—from classic neighborhood jobs like babysitting and odd jobs for neighbors to more modern opportunities like making money online.
How to Get a Job as a 13 Year Old
Landing a job as a minor can be a bit challenging, especially at 13. Labor laws ensure your safety and that you’re well-rested and productive during school hours. This means that full-time positions and many conventional part-time jobs are not yet accessible to you.
But don’t worry—there are plenty of awesome jobs for 13-year-olds that involve helping out neighbors, creating content online, and sharing your skills with others.
To get a job, find out what people need that you can provide (this blog is a great starting point), discuss it with your parents, and then go out and give it a try!
Top 13 Jobs You Can Do at 13 Years Old!
To find the right job for you, think about what you already have experience or interest in. Do you take care of the family pets? Do your family members always seek your tech advice? Do you enjoy writing, even outside of school assignments?
Think about what you enjoy as you read about these 13 jobs you can do at 13 to make some extra money.
1. Babysitter
Babysitting younger children is one of the most sought-after jobs for teenagers. If you have younger siblings or cousins that live nearby, it could be a great way for you to gain experience.
To stand out, consider getting a babysitting certification from the Red Cross, available to people ages 11 and up. Obtaining certification can enhance your babysitting skills and equip you with valuable first aid knowledge. Leveling up your skills could make more people want to hire you, and you could even charge a little more.
2. Online Jobs
The internet is filled with people who need help with various online tasks. If you have permission to use your parent’s account on websites like Fiverr, you could do jobs like transcribing audio, voice work, proofreading services, or data entry—all from the comfort of your home.
3. Housekeeper
If you enjoy the zen of house cleaning, you might like doing some light housekeeping after school for family or friends. This might involve tasks such as doing laundry, cleaning windows, loading the dishwasher, or simply tidying up around the house.
4. Dog Walker
Did you grow up with dogs? You likely possess some highly sought-after skills. With pet ownership on the rise, there’s an increasing demand for experienced pet sitters, dog walkers, and trainers.
If you have a natural affinity with animals, this could be the ideal job for you.
5. eBay Reseller
In the first quarter of 2023 alone, over $270 billion worth of new and used goods were sold online. Many of these sales were conducted by third-party sellers on platforms like eBay, Amazon, and Etsy.
If you enjoy hunting for bargains at thrift stores, yard sales, or discount shops, you could potentially turn this hobby into a profitable venture.
However, before purchasing items, it’s crucial to research their resale value. Additionally, review the terms of service on any platform you choose to sell through. Since you are not yet 18, you’ll need your parents to set up and manage the account on your behalf.
6. Landscaper
Much like house cleaning, many people require assistance with yard work. Whether it’s weeding, raking leaves, or lawn mowing, you can offer these services to your neighbors. Additionally, in the winter months in many states, you can transition to snow shoveling.
By building a substantial client base, you might even be able to recruit your friends to help out, transforming your effort into a budding entrepreneurial venture!
7. Blogger or Vlogger
You have a unique and valuable perspective of the world. If you have a talent for writing, consider starting a blog.
(Or you might even consider a vlog if writing isn’t your thing.) A blog or vlog can be about anything—your favorite tv shows, a hobby, or even your experience with your new pet-sitting business.
There are numerous ways to monetize a blog or vlog. You can display advertisements, secure sponsorships, or sell products that are relevant to your content.
Before getting started, make sure you meet the minimum age requirements for the blogging platform. Then, grab your parents, and go over our internet safety guide with them.
8. Camp Counselor
Ever been to summer camp? How about being a camp counselor? While most summer camps require counselors to be at least 14 years old, some offer counselor-in-training programs for those as young as 12.
9. Youth Sports Referee
How about earning money while spending time on the field? If you’re an attentive sports enthusiast with a keen eye for rules, becoming a youth sports referee is an excellent part-time job for 13-year-olds like yourself.
The minimum age requirement can vary based on your chosen sport, the organization you’ll be working with, and the state you reside in. Additionally, you may need to complete a course or pass a test before getting started.
10. Social Media Manager
A strong social media presence is increasingly vital for businesses of all types. While many local businesses excel at delivering products or services, they often struggle with maintaining an active Instagram account.
If you’re adept at social media, these businesses may be willing to pay you to engage their customers and enhance their brand’s online presence.
11. Errand Runner
Do you have busy or elderly neighbors who could use assistance with their errands? You can offer a helping hand and earn extra money by running errands such as grocery shopping, visiting the post office, washing cars, sorting recyclables, and handling other odd jobs for them.
12. Coder
Do you know how to code? As the world becomes increasingly digital, the demand for coders and programmers continues to grow. One of the remarkable aspects of this valuable skill is that there’s no age requirement to start learning. You can teach yourself right from home or learn it in school.
As a coder, you can leverage your skills to earn money by offering your expertise to clients or by developing and selling your own apps or video games.
13. Instructor
One of the most rewarding jobs for 13-year-olds who have honed a particular skill over the years is to become an instructor. Whether you’ve been immersed in piano lessons, dance classes, or any other activity, you likely possess valuable knowledge that others are willing to pay for.
Teaching not only deepens your understanding of the subject but also helps you develop essential skills like time management, empathy, and adaptability.
