In today’s fast-moving world, having multiple income streams isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Financial expert Dave Ramsey, known for his no-nonsense money principles, often encourages people to find side hustles that help them pay off debt, build an emergency fund, and invest for the future.
But here’s the big question: What is Dave Ramsey’s best side hustle?
In this detailed guide, we’ll uncover the #1 side hustle recommended by Dave Ramsey, explore other profitable ideas, and explain how you can start today—even if you have no experience.
Let’s dive in!
What Is Dave Ramsey’s Best Side Hustle?
According to Dave Ramsey, the best side hustle is one that:
- Generates consistent extra income
- Doesn’t distract from your main job
- Helps you reach financial freedom faster
- Doesn’t involve debt or unnecessary risk
Based on his teachings, Dave Ramsey’s best side hustle is delivering food or rideshare driving (like Uber, Lyft, or DoorDash).
Why? Because it’s simple, flexible, and instantly profitable.
You can start quickly, set your own hours, and use the extra income to pay off debt or build savings.
Let’s explore why this works so well.
Why Dave Ramsey Recommends Delivery or Rideshare Driving
Dave Ramsey often says, “There’s no shortcut to wealth, but there’s always a smart way to earn it.”
Delivery and rideshare driving are smart because:
1. Low Startup Costs
You don’t need a fancy setup. Just a reliable vehicle, smartphone, and a driver app.
2. Flexible Hours
You can work early mornings, evenings, or weekends—whenever you want.
3. Instant Income
Unlike businesses that take time to grow, you can start earning in days, not months.
4. Easy to Scale
Want more income? Drive more hours. It’s that simple.
5. No Debt or Investment Risk
Dave Ramsey strongly advises against debt. Rideshare driving doesn’t require borrowing money or risky spending.
Top 5 Side Hustles Dave Ramsey Endorses (Besides Rideshare)
If you’re looking for other Dave Ramsey-approved side hustles, here are his top picks that align with his Baby Steps and money philosophy:
1. Freelancing or Contract Work
Use your existing skills—writing, design, marketing, or coding. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer make it easy.
👉 Dave’s View: Build your reputation first; don’t quit your main job until your side income is stable.
2. Selling Stuff You Don’t Need
Dave calls this “decluttering for dollars.”
Sell old furniture, clothes, gadgets, or collectibles on Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Craigslist.
👉 Pro Tip: Use that cash to pay off small debts first (the Debt Snowball Method).
3. Babysitting or Pet Sitting
A classic, simple way to earn cash. Parents and pet owners will always need trustworthy help.
👉 Dave’s View: Great for students or stay-at-home parents who want flexible earnings.
4. Tutoring or Teaching Online
If you’re good at math, English, or any school subject, teach others online through VIPKid, Preply, or Wyzant.
👉 Why Dave Approves: It’s skill-based, risk-free, and boosts your confidence while helping others.
5. Real Estate Referral or Plot Sales (Local Opportunity)
If you’re in India or anywhere with booming real estate, consider referring property buyers or sellers to a trusted site like plotsforsalehyd.in.
You can earn commission without huge investment—just by connecting people.
👉 Dave’s Logic: Earn extra income without debt, inventory, or overhead.
How to Choose the Right Side Hustle (Dave Ramsey’s 3-Step Rule)
Dave Ramsey believes you should pick a side hustle that fits your skills, schedule, and purpose.
Step 1: Match Your Skills
If you love driving—go for rideshare.
If you’re good at writing or teaching—freelance or tutor.
Step 2: Keep It Simple
Avoid complicated or expensive ventures. Dave often warns against “get-rich-quick” schemes.
Step 3: Use Earnings Wisely
The goal isn’t just to make money—it’s to build financial stability. Use your side hustle income to:
- Pay off debt
- Save for emergencies
- Invest for the future
How Much Can You Earn from Dave Ramsey’s Best Side Hustle?
Here’s a realistic breakdown (based on averages):
| Platform | Average Earnings (Per Hour) | Monthly Potential (20 hrs/week) |
|---|---|---|
| Uber / Lyft | $15–$25 | $1,200–$2,000 |
| DoorDash / Uber Eats | $10–$20 | $800–$1,600 |
| Freelancing | $20–$50 | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Tutoring | $15–$40 | $1,200–$3,000 |
💡 Pro Tip: Combine two side hustles—like freelancing on weekdays and rideshare on weekends—to double your earnings.
Dave Ramsey’s Money Rule for Side Hustlers: “Don’t Let Lifestyle Creep In”
Many people start earning extra and start spending more. Dave calls this “lifestyle creep.”
Instead, he advises to:
- Save first (10–15% of income)
- Pay off debt fast
- Avoid luxury spending until you’re debt-free
Your side hustle money should work for you, not against you.
Mistakes to Avoid When Starting a Side Hustle (Dave Ramsey’s Advice)
- ❌ Taking a loan to start
- ❌ Quitting your job too early
- ❌ Ignoring taxes or emergency funds
- ❌ Falling for “passive income” scams
- ❌ Forgetting rest and burnout prevention
Remember, Dave’s financial plan is built on discipline, not luck.
Real-Life Example: How a Side Hustle Changed Lives (Dave Ramsey Show Story)
On the Dave Ramsey Show, many callers share how side hustles helped them achieve freedom.
For example, one caller paid off $60,000 of student loans in 2 years just by delivering pizza 5 nights a week.
That’s the power of consistent effort and smart money habits.
How to Start Dave Ramsey’s Best Side Hustle (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Sign Up for a Platform
Choose Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, or Swiggy (India). Register, verify your documents, and start driving.
Step 2: Set a Weekly Goal
Decide how much you want to earn—like $200 per week.
Step 3: Track Every Dollar
Use the EveryDollar app (created by Ramsey Solutions) to manage your budget.
Step 4: Use Earnings Wisely
Apply it toward debt or savings—not unnecessary shopping.
Why Dave Ramsey’s Side Hustle Strategy Works in 2026
In 2026, inflation and expenses are rising, but technology has also made side hustles easier than ever.
Dave’s advice remains timeless:
“Work hard. Be smart with your money. Stay out of debt.”
Following that simple formula can change your life—no matter where you start.
Conclusion: Start Small, Think Big, Stay Debt-Free
Dave Ramsey’s best side hustle—rideshare or delivery driving—may seem simple, but it’s powerful when done with purpose.
It helps you earn fast, stay disciplined, and move closer to financial independence.
If you follow his proven principles—budgeting, saving, and paying off debt—you’ll find that your side hustle isn’t just extra income… it’s the path to freedom.
Call to Action (By Karna Raju)
If you’re looking for a smart and safe side hustle in real estate, check out plotsforsalehyd.in — trusted by hundreds of families for genuine plot investment opportunities in Hyderabad.
I, Karna Raju, strongly believe in Dave Ramsey’s principles—earn ethically, invest wisely, and build a future without debt. Start your side hustle journey today and make your money work for you!
10 FAQs About Dave Ramsey’s Best Side Hustle
1. What is Dave Ramsey’s #1 side hustle?
👉 Rideshare or food delivery—because it’s flexible, low-risk, and pays quickly.
2. Does Dave Ramsey recommend passive income?
👉 Not at first. He recommends active side hustles until you’re debt-free.
3. Can I start a side hustle with no money?
👉 Yes! Try freelancing, tutoring, or selling unused items online.
4. How much can I make with Uber or DoorDash?
👉 Around $1,000–$2,000 per month part-time.
5. Is real estate a good side hustle?
👉 Yes, especially if you focus on referrals or plot sales without borrowing.
6. Should I use credit to start a side hustle?
👉 Absolutely not. Dave Ramsey strongly opposes debt for side hustles.
7. What is the best side hustle for students?
👉 Tutoring, online teaching, or delivery driving.
8. How do I manage side hustle money?
👉 Use Dave Ramsey’s EveryDollar budgeting app to track spending.
9. Can side hustles replace my main job?
👉 Eventually, yes—but only when your side income is consistent and debt-free.
10. What’s the first step I should take today?
👉 Pick one simple side hustle, set a goal, and take action—don’t overthink!
Final Words:
Start small, stay focused, and remember—your hustle today builds your freedom tomorrow.