How can you make money while you sleep?
It sounds like a dream for some, but there are ways you can actually make money without having to actively work for it.
I’ve compiled a list of 20 easy ways to make money while you sleep in 2023, some of which may require a time commitment (to create the thing), others may require a money commitment, and others may require both.
Keep reading to discover 20 easy ways to make money while you sleep in 2023.
Passive Income
Passive income is a great way to make money while you sleep. It’s a stream of income that requires little to no effort to maintain (even though it may have required a time or money investment to start).
If you’re looking to earn some extra cash without having to put in a lot of work, passive income is the way to go. Here are some ideas to have you investigate and find out more.
1. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing involves promoting someone else’s product and earning a commission on each sale ( ShareASale , Commission Junction , Amazon Associates ). You can promote products through your blog, social media, or other online platforms.
To be successful in affiliate marketing, you need to have a loyal following and a good understanding of your audience’s needs.
2. Online Courses
Creating and selling online courses is another way to earn passive income. If you’re an expert in a particular field, you can create an online course and sell it on platforms like Udemy or Skillshare . You can also create your own website and sell your courses directly to your audience.
3. Stock Dividends
Investing in the stock market is a great way to earn passive income. You can invest in dividend-paying stocks , which pay you a portion of the company’s profits on a regular basis. You can also invest in index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) for portfolio diversification.
4. eBooks
Writing and selling eBooks is a great way to earn passive income. You can write about any topic that you’re knowledgeable about and sell your eBooks on platforms like Amazon using Kindle Direct Publishing or your own website. You can also offer your eBooks as a free download to attract more readers and potential customers.
5. Ad Revenue
Blogging is a great way to earn passive income through advertising and affiliate marketing. You can monetise your blog through ads ( Google Adsense , Ezoic , Mediavine ), sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing.
To be successful in blogging, you need to create high-quality content that resonates with your audience.
6. Real Estate Investing
Real estate investing is a popular way to earn passive income. You can invest in rental properties, fix and flip properties, or real estate investment trusts (REITs). Rental properties can provide a steady stream of rental income, while fix and flip properties can provide a one-time profit. REITs allow you to invest in real estate without the hassle of owning and managing properties.
If you don’t have enough money to invest in real estate you could try dipping your toe in the water with smaller crowdfunding apps like Fundrise , RealtyMogul , or CrowdStreet , which pool investors’ money to finance real estate projects. These platforms often pay dividends or offer returns based on the project’s performance.
7. Automated Trading Systems
Invest in algorithmic trading platforms that use AI or other automated strategies to manage your investments. Be cautious, as this approach carries significant risks and should be thoroughly researched before committing.
Platform offering this type of service include eToro Copy Trader , Eight Cap , Wealth Lab and Trality .
8. Sell Digital Assets
Create and sell digital assets, like website templates, graphic designs, or 3D models, on platforms such as Envato , Creative Market , or Gumroad .
Take high-quality photos and sell them on stock photography websites like iStock , Getty Images , or Shutterstock . You’ll earn a commission every time someone licenses your images.
9. Dropshipping
Set up an eCommerce store using a dropshipping model, where you sell products from suppliers without holding inventory. Platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce make it easy to create a store, and you can use apps like Oberlo or Spocket to connect with suppliers.
Use Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) service to sell products online. Amazon handles storage, shipping, and customer service, while you focus on sourcing and marketing your products.
10. Domain Flipping
Buy domain names with potential value and sell them at a profit. This requires research and an understanding of market trends, but can be profitable if done well.
You can find out more on how to do this on GoDaddy Auctions .
11. Revenue-Share Content
Contribute content to revenue-sharing websites like HubPages , Medium , or Vocal , which pay you a portion of the advertising revenue generated by your content.
You could also look at revenue sharing video content too on sites like Pond5 .
12. High-Yield Savings Accounts
If you’re looking for a low-risk way to make money while you sleep, a high-yield savings account is a great option. These accounts offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts, which means you’ll earn more money on your savings over time.
One of the benefits of high-yield savings accounts is that they are typically offered by online banks, which means they have lower overhead costs and can pass those savings on to you in the form of higher interest rates. However, it’s important to note that some high-yield savings accounts may come with fees, so be sure to read the fine print before opening an account.
When choosing a high-yield savings account, look for one with a competitive interest rate and no monthly maintenance fees. Some accounts may also offer sign-up bonuses or other perks, so be sure to compare your options before making a decision.
It’s also important to keep in mind that high-yield savings accounts are not a get-rich-quick scheme. While you will earn more interest than you would with a traditional savings account, the returns are still relatively small compared to other investment options. However, high-yield savings accounts are a great option for those who want to earn a little extra money on their savings without taking on too much risk.
Overall, a high-yield savings account is a great way to make money while you sleep. With a little research and careful consideration, you can find an account that offers a competitive interest rate and no fees, allowing you to earn more on your savings without lifting a finger.
13. Peer-to-Peer Lending
Peer-to-peer lending, also known as P2P lending, is a way to earn passive income by lending money to individuals or businesses through an online platform. P2P lending platforms connect borrowers with investors, allowing investors to earn interest on their investment while borrowers get the funding they need.
To start investing in P2P lending, you’ll need to sign up for a P2P lending platform and create an account. Once you’ve created an account, you can browse through the available loans and choose the ones you want to invest in. You can invest in multiple loans to diversify your portfolio and reduce your risk.
One advantage of P2P lending is that it offers higher returns than traditional savings accounts or bonds. However, it’s important to note that P2P lending is not without risk. The loans you invest in may not be repaid, which could result in a loss of your investment.
To reduce your risk, it’s important to do your research before investing. Look for reputable P2P lending platforms that have a track record of success. You should also diversify your portfolio by investing in multiple loans and spreading your investment across different borrowers and industries.
P2P lending can be a great way to earn passive income while helping others get the funding they need. However, it’s important to do your research and invest wisely to minimise your risk.
Platforms offering this type of passive income stream include LendingClub and Prosper .
14. Airbnb
If you have a spare room in your home or a vacation property, you can make money while you sleep by renting it out on Airbnb . Airbnb is a platform that connects travellers with hosts who have extra space to rent out.
To get started, create an Airbnb account and list your space. You can set your own prices and availability, and you have the option to accept or decline booking requests. Airbnb also provides a messaging system so you can communicate with your guests before they arrive.
When renting out a room on Airbnb, it’s important to make sure your space is clean and comfortable. Provide fresh linens and towels, and make sure your guests have access to basic amenities such as Wi-Fi and toiletries. You may also want to provide a guide to your local area with recommendations for restaurants and attractions.
If you’re renting out a vacation property, you can make even more money by offering additional services such as airport transfers or cleaning services. You can also set up a lockbox or keypad entry system so guests can check in and out on their own, making the process more convenient for both you and your guests.
Overall, renting out a room or property on Airbnb can be a great way to make money while you sleep. Just make sure to provide a great experience for your guests, and you’ll be well on your way to earning passive income.
15. YouTube Channel
If you’re interested in creating content and have a passion for a particular topic, starting a YouTube channel could be a great way to make money while you sleep. With over 2 billion monthly active users, YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world, making it a great platform to reach a wide audience.
One way to make money on YouTube is through advertising revenue. You can monetise your videos by enabling ads through Google AdSense . Once you’ve enabled ads, you’ll earn a portion of the revenue generated by those ads. The amount you earn will depend on a variety of factors, such as the number of views your videos receive and the demographics of your audience.
Another way to make money on YouTube is by creating sponsored content. Brands may be willing to pay you to create videos that promote their products or services. You can also earn money through affiliate marketing by including affiliate links in your video descriptions. When viewers click on these links and make a purchase, you’ll earn a commission.
If you’re interested in creating content but don’t want to be in front of the camera, you can still make money on YouTube by selling stock content. This can include stock footage, stock music, and stock images. You can create and upload these assets to websites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock, where customers can purchase them for use in their own projects.
Overall, starting a YouTube channel can be a great way to make money while you sleep. Whether you’re interested in creating sponsored content, earning advertising revenue, or selling stock content, there are plenty of opportunities to monetise your content and earn passive income.
16. Webinars
Webinars are a great way to make money while you sleep. By creating an automated webinar, you can earn money even when you’re not actively working.
To get started with webinars, you’ll need to choose a topic that you’re knowledgeable about and that you think will be of interest to your audience. You can use platforms like Zoom or GoToWebinar to host your webinar and promote it through social media and email marketing.
One of the advantages of webinars is that they can be recorded and then replayed later on. This means that you can create an automated webinar that runs 24/7, allowing you to earn money even while you’re sleeping.
When creating your webinar, it’s important to provide value to your audience. This can be done by sharing your expertise, providing actionable tips and advice, and answering any questions that your audience may have.
To monetise your webinar, you can charge a fee for access to the live event or offer a paid replay of the webinar. You can also use your webinar to promote other products or services that you offer.
Overall, webinars can be a highly effective way to make money while you sleep. By creating an automated webinar that provides value to your audience, you can earn passive income around the clock.
17. Printables
If you have a talent for graphic design or enjoy creating digital art, you can make money while you sleep by selling printables. Printables are digital files that people can download and print at home. They can be anything from wall art to planner pages to party decorations.
To get started with selling printables, you’ll need to create designs that people will want to buy. You can use software like Adobe Illustrator or Canva to create your designs. Once you have your designs, you can sell them on platforms like Etsy or your own website.
Here are some ideas for printables that you can sell:
- Wall art: Create beautiful designs that people can print and hang in their homes.
- Planners: Design printable planners and organisers that people can use to stay organised.
- Party decorations: Create printable party decorations like banners, cupcake toppers, and photo booth props.
- Invitations: Design printable invitations for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions.
- Colouring pages: Create printable colouring pages for adults and children.
When selling printables, it’s important to make sure that your designs are high-quality and visually appealing. You should also make sure that your files are easy to download and print. Consider including instructions or tips for printing and framing your designs.
In addition to selling your printables on platforms like Etsy , you can also create a website or blog to promote your designs. You can use social media to reach a wider audience and collaborate with other artists and designers to create new products.
Overall, selling printables is a great way to make money while you sleep. With a little creativity and some design skills, you can create products that people will love and continue to generate passive income over time.
Platforms like Printful or Printify can help automate the process.
18. Masterworks
If you’re interested in investing in art, Masterworks might be the perfect platform for you. This platform allows you to invest in shares of valuable artwork, which can potentially increase in value over time. Here are some key things to know about Masterworks:
- Masterworks allows you to invest in shares of artwork from some of the most famous artists in history, including Claude Monet, Andy Warhol, and Pablo Picasso.
- When you invest in artwork through Masterworks, you own a fractional share of the piece. This means that you can potentially profit if the artwork increases in value over time.
- Masterworks charges an annual fee of 1.5% of the artwork’s value, which covers insurance, storage, and other expenses associated with owning the artwork.
- When the artwork is eventually sold, you will receive a share of the profits based on your ownership percentage. Masterworks takes a 20% cut of any profits you make.
Investing in art can be a risky venture, but it can also be very rewarding if done correctly. Masterworks provides a unique opportunity to invest in valuable artwork without having to purchase an entire piece yourself. Keep in mind that investing in art should be done as part of a diversified investment portfolio and not as the sole investment strategy.
Overall, Masterworks can be a great option for those who are interested in investing in art but don’t want to take on the full financial burden of owning a valuable piece.
19. Podcasting
If audio is your thing then you could start a podcast on a topic you’re passionate about and monetise it through sponsorships, advertising, or Patreon donations.
20. Rent Space or Things
Rent out unused storage space, such as a garage, basement, or spare room, on platforms like Neighbor or StoreAtMyHouse .
If you own a boat or RV, rent it out to others when you’re not using it. Platforms like Boatsetter or Outdoorsy can help facilitate the process.
If you own a parking space that you don’t use, rent it out to others through platforms like SpotHero or JustPark .
If you own equipment or items that are in demand, rent them out to others through platforms like Fat Llama , ShareGrid , or Turo (for cars).
Conclusion
You’ve now learned about 20 different ways to make money while you sleep. By implementing one or more of these strategies, you can start earning passive income and achieve financial freedom.
Remember, making money while you sleep requires some initial effort and investment. However, the long-term benefits are worth it. With passive income, you can enjoy a more flexible lifestyle, spend more time with your loved ones, and pursue your passions.
Here are a few key takeaways from this article:
- Affiliate marketing, real estate investment trusts (REITs), and rental properties are some of the most popular ways to make money while you sleep.
- Building an app, creating online courses and webinars, and launching a YouTube channel are great options for those with creative skills.
- Investing in fine wine, dividend-paying stocks, and alternative investments can provide a steady stream of passive income.
- Don’t overlook the power of high-yield savings accounts and cashback rewards programs to boost your earnings.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to making money while you sleep. It’s important to find a strategy that aligns with your skills, interests, and financial goals.
So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your passive income journey today and watch your wealth grow over time. Good luck!
