3 High-Paying Remote Side Hustles In 2025
Upwork’s research team collated a list of the top 25 freelance and gig opportunities with the highest hourly rates, from its platform. Here are a few of them:
1. Machine Learning Engineer
Average hourly rate: $75 – $200/hour
Why it’s in demand: Surge in AI adoption and implementation, explosion of AI development and use across multiple industries like healthcare, retail, finance, etc.
Skills: Python, TensorFlow, data modelling, LLMs, prompt engineering
Remote? Yes, when working a side hustle or full-time freelance role in this field you can often perform this role fully remotely
Top tip: The more you specialize, the more you can charge at the higher end of the fee range, and you can even charge per project instead of per hour, allowing you to be paid for the value you bring rather than hourly work which has some limitations
2. Media Buyer
Average hourly rate: $50 – $100/hour
Why it’s in demand: More businesses are shifting to online-first presence, especially there are an estimated 5.24 billion social media users in 2025 according to DataReportal (this works out to be almost 64% of the global population). Internet-first consumerism means companies are eager to get their brand in front of the right people in the digital market, therefore media buyers are in strong demand right now so they can get their services/products/brand seen.
Skills: Exceptional negotiation skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, analytical and reporting skills, knowledge of media channels and platforms
Remote? Yes, this side hustle can easily be performed remotely
Top tip: Gather a portfolio of success stories and case studies from past clients (formal or informal, it doesn’t matter) to boost your credibility and allow you to comfortably push the highest end of the pay range
3. PR Manager
Average hourly rate: $50 – $100/hour
Why it’s in demand: The BLS projects demand for public relations specialists to skyrocket by 7% over the next few years up to 2033–which is higher than the average job growth rate. Companies are competing for positive visibility and credibility, and as more start-ups launch (thanks to AI), more businesses will need the support of PR professionals to ensure their continued growth and a strong brand presence as they launch
Skills: Strong communication skills, problem-solving, relationship-building, critical thinking, crisis management
Remote? Yes
Top tip: Strengthen your skills and portfolio in managing PR for emerging tech start-ups and founders
Feeling inspired and pumped up by these ideas? Let’s keep the momentum going.
Pick one side hustle idea from this list.
