7 Fast and Easy Ways to Make Money in Philadelphia

Same Day Work and Pay Programs ($50 per Shift)

Philadelphia has a strong network with the Same Day Work Program, non-profits, and gig platforms that connect people to quick day labor work—from warehouse help to cleaning jobs and event staffing. The demand for flexible labor is especially high during event season and peak moving times.

You can often get paid the same day with cash in hand or within 24 hours via direct deposit, depending on the platform. What I like the most is you are paid per shift around or above $50. Each shift is usually 3 and a half hours long, per day. 

These shifts are easy to pick up within a days time, so you don't need to wait for approval or go through extensive interviews, which I really liked about this particular option.

However, if you don't want to physically go work a shift, you can earn your first $50 in Freecash within the same time, all form your mobile device. 

Drive for Delivery Services ($20-$25 per Hour)

If you happen to have a car or you live in the part of Philly where riding a bicycle is faster than driving, this option is perfect for you. A few areas I would highly recommend starting out would be South Philadelphia, City Center, or near Temple University. 

As someone who has previously been a deliver driver, individuals who need immediate cash, have limited qualifications, or are physically capable of manual labor are the best for this type of side gig. It helped me get by when I was in college and trying to pay off my next trip to Geno's. 

You can use apps like Uber Eats, Just Eat, or even Postmates. Now there is some contraversy if Uber Eats is better than Just Eat, however I thnk its safe to say using both simultaneously doubles your odds of income (usually you get an extra $20+ if you use both). 

Part-Time Barista ($15-$20 per hour)

Depending on where you apply or work as a barista, you can easily earn atleast $15 an hour. Most part times you can work around 3 to 4 hours a day as a barista doing this shift in the morning. 

While you might be thinking this could be taxing physically, if you are a student trying to earn or maybe you want to do something outsid eof your 9-5, I personally recommend this part time as its literally make coffee and go home scenerio. 

In Philadelphia particularly, this type of job is extremely popular as a side gig near the university or even in more rural parts of the city. The average barista earns about $15 an hour, bringing you to possibly earning over $1,200 a month from this side gig.  

Cultural Alliance Job Board ($15-$20 per Hour)

The Culture Alliance Job Board is a popular alternative place to find art and culture jobs (similar to the same day work and pay program). This is a great place to search for jobs specifically in Philadelphia for those who are in need of a consistent paying position whether for non-profit or profit organizations. 

When you get paid would depend, as pay cycles depend on the organization. However they typically follow standard bi-weekly or monthly payrolls. A majority of jobs you might find on this job board is typically part time. 

Keep in mind a lot of these jobs may require a particular experience or background as you can apply for small event management, teaching, or reception at history museums. However, a majority are entry level so you can find a job within a day or so. 

I would recommend using this platform for finding a decent entry level part time aside from restaurant or retail. They usually pay a bit better, and have better benefits (unless you really want to get Starbucks for free and consider that a benefit). 

Part-Time Caregiver ($12-$20 per Hour)

With an aging population and many families balancing work and eldercare, demand for part-time caregivers is booming in areas like Chestnut Hill, Mount Airy, and the Main Line. 

I would highly recommend this job type for empathetic, patient individuals who are comfortable assisting seniors or people with disabilities.

It is also great for those with CNA or HHA certifications, though some jobs don’t require experience.

However if you are a bit older yourself, be sure to check out an article about the best side hustles for after retirement. This is also a great side hustle for those who are either students or even trying to make money above their 50's.

To get started looking for the best part times in this area, I would suggest visiting sites like Care.com or Visiting Angels which can help you get started quickly.

Referee for Youth Sports Events ($15-$17 per Hour)

Philly’s love for sports runs deep. Youth leagues for soccer, basketball, and baseball are always in need of referees, especially during the school year and summer camp season.

These types of gigs are best for sports lovers with good focus and a sense of fairness. Great for college students, teachers, and athletic adults who want to stay active and give back to the community. The best part is usually these part times only take up to 10 hours of your week. 

In terms of when you get paid, some leagues pay weekly, others per event. You’ll often be paid in cash or via check shortly after the game. If you need to paid today, however, I would recommend getting paid to play games on reward platforms like Freecash. 

Sell Old Clothes Online ($50-$500 per Piece)

Sustainable fashion is trending, and platforms like Poshmark, Depop, and Facebook Marketplace thrive in urban areas with lots of style-conscious shoppers. Philly’s vintage and thrift scene makes this an easy hustle to tap into, with thousands of vintage lovers looking for new pieces daily. 

Whether you have a sense of style, extra clothes, or an eye for thrifting, this is a great opportunity to resell hidden gems online even on apps like Vintage. 

I would also say this is perfect for students or even for single moms. I had a college colleague who sold over $500 a month on just thrifted clothes. She never even needed an official part time job. 

The time between sales can vary, but a majority of sales are usually done between 1-5 days. If you find nice pieces in places like Goodwill that can be sold for more, they are usually snagged much faster than more worn out clothing.