16 Quick Ways To Make Extra Money In Sterling Heights, Michigan [2024]

Updated: February 8th, 2023

Looking to make easy money or start a business in Sterling Heights, Michigan?

Sterling Heights is a city on the rise. With over 130,000 people, it is the fourth-largest city in the state and continues to grow. The city boasts a strong economy and low unemployment rate, making it an attractive location for those looking to start a business or side hustle.

In addition, Sterling Heights has a diverse population and a growing entrepreneurial community, providing ample opportunities for those looking to make easy money. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just looking for a way to make extra cash, this city has something to offer.

This post provides 16 side hustle ideas and ways to make money in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

Here they are:

1. Start a handyman business

The demand for handyman services is always high as homeowners and landlords require routine maintenance, repairs, and upgrades in their properties. Starting a handyman business in Sterling Heights can be a great idea, as the city is home to many homeowners who likely need various home repairs and improvements. The city’s growing population and real estate market create a constant demand for handyman services.

Furthermore, starting a handyman business can be a fun and profitable way to make money. As a handyman, you’ll have the flexibility to set your schedule and work on various projects. Plus, you’ll be satisfied with helping others by improving their homes and earning a good income.

How To Get Started

You will also need basic home repairs and maintenance knowledge or be willing to learn. You should also consider obtaining any necessary licenses and insurance and creating a business plan and marketing strategy to promote your services.

  • Potential Earnings: $19.22 per hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Claw Hammer, Tape Measure, Level, Utility Knife, Cordless Power Tool Set, Shop Vac, Screwdrivers, Wire Stripper Pliers.

2. Start a surprise travel agency

One unique business idea that could thrive in Sterling Heights is a surprise travel agency. The concept of the business is to plan surprise vacations for customers, keeping the destination a secret until they arrive at the airport. This type of business is a great idea to start in Sterling Heights because of its diverse population and proximity to several major airports. The city’s residents come from all over the world and would be excited about the opportunity to travel to new and exotic destinations.

Starting a surprise travel agency in Sterling Heights would be a fun and profitable way to make money. As more and more people are looking for unique and exciting travel experiences, this type of business would offer a service that is in high demand.

How To Get Started:

To get started with a surprise travel agency, research and identify the best destinations and packages that fit your customer's preferences and budget. Partner with airlines, hotels, and tour companies to negotiate the best deals. Create a website, build a social media presence, and advertise your services to potential customers.

  • Potential Earnings: Varies depending on location and season.
  • Cost To Start: Low
  • Tools Needed: Travel van, computer, and internet.

3. Become a mobile personal trainer

Another business idea that could thrive in Sterling Heights is a mobile personal trainer service. The concept of the business is to bring the personal training experience to customers’ homes or local parks, creating a fun and interactive workout experience. Mobile personal training has become increasingly popular, and now this business idea is taking the game to a new level.

Starting a mobile personal training service in Sterling Heights could be a fun and profitable way to make money. With a strong focus on health and wellness, there is a growing demand for personal training services in the city. Additionally, the convenience of having a personal trainer come to your home or local park, rather than going to a gym, would appeal to many people.

How To Get Started:

To get started with a mobile personal trainer service, research and find the best personal training certifications and insurance options. Create a website, build a social media presence and start advertising your services to potential customers. Get equipment, such as weights and resistance bands, that are portable and easy to transport to different locations.

  • Potential Earnings: $27.78 per hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low
  • Tools Needed: Resistance bands, dumbbells, kettlebells, yoga mats.

4. At-Home Laundry Service

Another business idea that could be successful in Sterling Heights is an at-home laundry service. The concept of the business is to provide a convenient and affordable laundry service for busy individuals, families, and businesses in the area. With many people in the city working full-time, this type of service would be in high demand.

Starting an at-home laundry service in Sterling Heights would be a fun and profitable way to make money. With a low startup cost and high demand for the service, it could be a great way to earn extra income. Additionally, the flexibility of working from home would allow for an excellent work-life balance and the ability to scale the business as demand increases.

How To Get Started:

To get started with an at-home laundry service, research the market and identify the target customers. Purchase or rent the necessary equipment, such as washing machines and dryers, and get all the necessary licenses and permits. Develop a pricing structure, create a website and social media presence and start advertising your services to potential customers in the area.

  • Potential Earnings: $13.25 per hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Washing machines and dryers.

5. Home decor consultant

A home decor consulting service is a business idea that could do well in Sterling Heights, Michigan. It would provide interior design services to homeowners looking to update their living spaces. Sterling Heights is a great place to start this business as it is a city with a growing population and a diverse range of housing, providing a diverse range of design opportunities.

A home decor consulting service would be a fun and profitable way to make money in Sterling Heights, it would allow you to use your creativity and design skills to help homeowners create beautiful and functional living spaces. Additionally, with the growing trend of people spending more time at home, many homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes more comfortable and enjoyable.

How To Get Started:

  • Potential Earnings: $24.52 per hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Design software, computer, measuring tools, and a camera.

6. Become a dog trainer

Another great business idea for Sterling Heights is a dog training business. With many pet owners in the city, there is a high demand for professional dog training services. The business would focus on training dogs of all ages and breeds, covering basic obedience training to more advanced commands, socialization, and behavioral modification.

This type of business is a good idea to start in Sterling Heights because of the city’s strong community of pet owners and the fact that it is a great place to train dogs, with many parks and open spaces around the city.

How To Get Started:

Research the different training methods and certifications available and choose one that aligns with your philosophy. Build a network of clients by advertising your services through social media, flyers, and word-of-mouth. Also, it would be helpful to build a relationship with local veterinarians and pet stores, as they could refer clients to you.

  • Potential Earnings: $12.59 per hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Dog collar, leash, dog treats, training clicker.

7. Become An Instacart shopper

The Instacart platform allows individuals to shop and deliver groceries to customers on a flexible schedule. This type of business is a good idea to start in Sterling Heights because of its growing population and the increasing demand for grocery delivery services. With more and more people looking for convenient options to get their groceries, becoming an Instacart shopper in Sterling Heights can be a great way to make money.

Being an Instacart shopper is a fun and profitable way to make money, as it allows for a flexible schedule and the ability to work independently. It can be a great side hustle for students, stay-at-home parents, or anyone looking to make extra cash. With the opportunity to earn tips on top of your base pay, earning potential is significant. Furthermore, Instacart shoppers can work as much or as little as they want, making it an excellent option for those looking for a flexible way to make money.

How To Get Started:

To get started as an Instacart shopper, download the Instacart Shopper app and complete the online application. Once your application is approved, you can start accepting orders and delivering groceries to customers. Remember to be punctual, friendly, and efficient when interacting with customers, as it will help you get more deliveries and increase your earning potential.

  • Potential Earnings: $16 per hour
  • Cost To Start: Low
  • Tools Needed: Computer and internet connection.

8. Become A Uber Driver

Becoming an Uber driver is another great way to make easy money in Sterling Heights, Michigan. The concept is simple, use your own vehicle to provide transportation services to customers using the Uber app. This type of business is a good idea to start in Sterling Heights because of the city's increasing population and growing tourism industry.

With more people moving to the city and more visitors coming to experience all it has to offer, there is a growing demand for transportation services.

How To Get Started:

To get started as an Uber driver, you must have a valid driver’s license, insurance, and a qualifying vehicle. You can sign up and start the application process on Uber’s website, where you will need to submit your personal information, driver’s license, and vehicle information. After passing a background check, you can start accepting rides and earning money.

  • Potential Earnings: $14.49 per hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low
  • Tools Needed: Car, Smartphone, and GPS.

9. Start a podcast

Podcasts have become increasingly popular in recent years and offer a unique way for individuals and businesses to share their stories and connect with a large audience. Podcasts can be about any topic, from sports to business to entertainment, and can be produced from the comfort of your home.

Starting a podcast in Sterling Heights is excellent because of the city’s diverse population and growing entrepreneurial community. With a wide range of interests and backgrounds, there is a large potential audience for a podcast in the city. Additionally, with a growing community of entrepreneurs and small business owners, a podcast focused on business, marketing, or career development would be well-received.

How To Get Started:

To start a podcast, invest in equipment such as a microphone, headphones, and a computer. Research and identify the best hosting platform for your podcast and create an account. Create a content calendar and start recording and editing your episodes.

  • Potential Earnings: $23.82 an hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low
  • Tools Needed: Microphone, headphones, and a computer.

10. Become a Fiverr freelancer

Another great way to make money in Sterling Heights is by becoming a freelancer on Fiverr. Fiverr is an online marketplace that connects freelancers with people looking for their skills, such as graphic design, writing, video editing, and more. Becoming a Fiverr freelancer is a good idea in Sterling Heights because the city has a growing population of entrepreneurs and small businesses that may require freelance services.

How To Get Started:

To get started as a Fiverr freelancer, create an account and set up your profile, detailing your skills and experience. Create gig offerings that highlight the services you provide, and make sure to include samples of your work. Start promoting your services through social media and networking to attract customers and grow your business.

  • Potential Earnings: $21 an hour
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Laptop, internet connection.

11. Become a stock photographer

Stock photography sells photographs that can be used for commercial or creative purposes. As a stock photographer, you would take photographs of various subjects and then license them to be used by businesses and individuals for a fee. This business model is a good idea to start in Sterling Heights because of its diverse population and a wide variety of locations that can be photographed.

Becoming a stock photographer is a fun and profitable way to make money. It allows you to pursue your passion for photography while earning money simultaneously. Additionally, it offers excellent flexibility, allowing you to work on your schedule and from anywhere. With the rise of digital platforms, it is now easier to sell photos and reach a global audience.

How To Get Started:

To start as a stock photographer, you need a good-quality camera, basic photography skills, and industry knowledge. Start by building a portfolio of your best work, and then create an account on stock photography websites such as Shutterstock, Stock, or Getty Images. Once you have a portfolio and an account, you can start uploading and selling your photos.

  • Potential Earnings: $14.42 per hour.
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Camera, image editing software, computer.

12. Sell used clothing

With the rise of fast fashion and the growing awareness of the environmental impact of clothing production, there is a growing market for sustainable and affordable clothing options. Starting a used clothing store in Sterling Heights would be a good idea because of the city's diverse population and growing focus on sustainability. The store could sell various gently used clothing, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and children at a fraction of the cost of new clothes.

How To Get Started:

To get started with a used clothing store, research and identify the best sources for gently used clothing, such as thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces. Set up a physical storefront or an e-commerce platform and develop a pricing strategy that allows you to profit while still offering affordable prices. Create a visually appealing and organized display of your products, and use social media and other marketing techniques to attract customers.

  • Potential Earnings: Up to 75% profit margin
  • Cost To Start: Low
  • Tools Needed: Reliable transportation

13. Start a trade-in electronics business.

This type of business allows customers to trade in their old electronics, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets, in exchange for cash or store credit. This is a great business idea to start in Sterling Heights as the city is home to a large and diverse population, with many residents constantly upgrading their electronics. In addition, many people are looking for ways to make a little extra money by selling their old devices.

Starting a trade-in electronics business is also a fun and profitable way to make money. You get to work with technology and help people get rid of the old devices they no longer need. As a business owner, you can set your prices and determine how much you want to pay for each device. It’s a great way to make money and be your boss. With the ever-evolving technology industry, it’s a business that will always be in demand.

How To Get Started:

To start with a trade-in electronics business, you will need to research and identify the types of devices in high demand and the prices they are selling for. Once you understand the market, you will need to find a location to set up your business, whether a physical storefront or an online store. Finally, you must purchase the necessary equipment and inventory and start promoting your business through different marketing channels to attract customers.

  • Potential Earnings: Up to 75% profit margin.
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Reliable transportation, a computer or a smartphone with an internet connection.

14. Become a Babysitter

One great business idea for those looking to make easy money in Sterling Heights is starting a babysitting service. With the city’s growing population and busy families, there is a high demand for reliable and trustworthy childcare. Starting a babysitting business allows you to be your boss and set your schedule while providing a valuable service to your community. Furthermore, babysitting can be a fun and profitable way to make money. You can spend time with children and help families while earning a good income.

Sterling Heights has a variety of family-friendly activities and places to visit, which can provide an excellent opportunity for a babysitting business. Many parks, community centers, and indoor play areas can be great places for children to play and learn. Additionally, Sterling Heights is home to many families with both parents working, so there is a high demand for evening and weekend childcare. Starting a babysitting service in Sterling Heights can be a great way to take advantage of this demand and help families in the community while making a profit.

How To Get Started:

Starting a babysitting business in Sterling Heights is relatively simple. The first step would be to obtain any necessary certifications or licenses. Creating a detailed business plan, including a budget and marketing strategy, is also essential. Once these are in place, you can begin advertising your services and building a client base.

  • Potential Earnings: $14.75 per hour
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Reliable transportation, toys, and a first aid kit.

15. Start House Cleaning Business

One business idea that may be particularly successful in Sterling Heights is a house cleaning service. With a growing population and busy schedules, many residents may be looking for help keeping their homes clean. Starting a house cleaning business in Sterling Heights would allow you to tap into this market and provide a valuable service to the community.

Not only is a house cleaning business a practical and in-demand service, but it can also be a fun and profitable way to make money. As the owner, you can set your schedule and work as much or as little as you’d like.

How To Get Started:

To start a house cleaning business in Sterling Heights, you must research the market and competition, create a business plan, and obtain the necessary licenses and insurance. It's also essential to purchase or rent equipment and supplies such as cleaning solutions, vacuum cleaners, and mops. Once you have everything in place, you can start marketing your business and acquiring customers.

  • Potential Earnings: $15.47 per hour
  • Cost To Start: Low
  • Tools Needed: Sponges, dusters/microfibre cloths, glass polishing cloths, cleaning brushes, transportation.

16. Become a personal chef

The personal chef business is gaining popularity in Sterling Heights, Michigan. As more people lead busy lives, the demand for personal chefs to prepare delicious, healthy meals for busy families and individuals is rising.

As a personal chef, you would be responsible for creating meal plans, grocery shopping, and cooking meals in the client's home. This business idea is perfect for those with a passion for cooking and an interest in healthy eating.

Sterling Heights is a great place to start a personal chef business because of its diverse population. With many families and busy professionals, there is a high demand for personal chefs who can provide convenient, healthy meal options. Additionally, Sterling Heights is a city on the rise with a growing economy, making it an attractive location for starting a new business.

How To Get Started:

  • Potential Earnings: $17.58 per hour
  • Cost To Start: Low.
  • Tools Needed: Chef's Knife, Honing Steel, Bench Scraper, Fish Spatula, etc.
meet the author
David Gitonga

"The best life hack of all is to just put the work in and never give up" - Bas Rutten (UFC Heavyweight Champion). Hey there! I am a talented freelancer passionate about writing and researching all topics business and entrepreneurship.