Passive Income Ideas For Moms [Updated for 2024]

Updated: September 21st, 2024

I know you're busy. I'm busy too. So, what's the best way to make money without actually having to do anything? Passive income!

But don’t be mistaken. You have to work hard to achieve this passive income.

In this blog post, I'm going to share some ideas for how moms can make passive income. Stay tuned for tips on how to get started!

1. Start a live product selling business

Are you interested in merging the immediacy of live interaction with product sales? Consider starting a live product selling business. It's about showcasing and selling products through live streaming platforms, just like a home shopping network but online.

Setting up a live product selling business involves selecting the right platform like Facebook Live, Instagram, or specific e-commerce sites that offer live selling features. You’ll need to curate a variety of products, organize engaging live demonstrations, and manage interactions with viewers in real time.

The real appeal lies in the personal touch and instant feedback from potential buyers. Sharing product features and benefits live creates an interactive experience that can drive immediate purchases.

If you enjoy connecting with people and have a flair for presentation, live product selling could be a dynamic way to turn your passion into profit. With minimal upfront costs, it’s worth exploring as a next venture.

2. Sell e-books ($75K/month)

An e-book business involves selling digital books online.

To start such a business, you would need to have a website or an online platform like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing or Smashwords, where you can list and sell your e-books.

To sell e-books, you need to decide on the type of content and set up your listings. This involves creating a cover, writing a description, and selecting categories and keywords.

Promoting your e-books is another important aspect of running an e-book business. You can use social media and online marketing strategies to reach your target audience.

Offering promotions and discounts can also help you encourage sales and attract new customers.

How much you can make: $15,000 — $120,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

3. Start a shopify store ($101K/month)

Shopify is a platform that makes it easy to set up an eCommerce store and start selling products with no merchant account, no inventory, and no complex setup.

A Shopify store is one of the best ways to start your own business online because it's so easy to set up and manage. You don't need any technical knowledge or coding skills to get started, and there are no hidden fees involved either - just pay for what you use!

Starting a Shopify business is one of the best ways to make it on your own. It doesn't cost nearly as much as opening a physical store, and businesses run on Shopify can be extremely profitable.

You can sell anything from handmade jewelry to pet products, clothing items, and more with a Shopify store - there are no limits!

How much you can make: $2,500 — $200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $80 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

4. Start an on-demand printing apps business ($255K/month)

On-demand printing apps offer a lucrative business opportunity for the tech-savvy entrepreneur willing to bridge the gap between digital design and tangible products. This concept revolves around creating a platform where users can upload their designs, which are then sent to partnered printing services for production and shipment.

The rise of personalized merchandise means there's a substantial market for custom mugs, t-shirts, posters, and more. With an on-demand printing app, you facilitate the entire process, without ever touching a physical product yourself.

The appeal lies in the simplicity of the model and its potential for high scalability. Focus on building and refining the user experience of your app, as well as forming robust partnerships with reliable printing services. This business leverages technology and creativity—ideal for those looking to combine digital skills with practical solutions.

How much you can make: $15,000 — $700,000/month

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

5. Start a dog treat business course

Dog owners are always on the lookout for healthy, tasty treats for their furry friends. Enter the dog treat business course, an opportunity that combines passion for pets with entrepreneurship. This course equips you with the knowledge and tools to create delicious, nutritional treats tailored to various dietary needs and preferences.

You’ll learn the basics of canine nutrition and recipes that stand out in a competitive market. From sourcing ingredients to packaging, branding, and marketing, the course covers all aspects of running a profitable dog treat business. The rise in pet ownership and the growing demand for premium pet products make this a timely and lucrative venture.

For animal lovers who dream of turning their passion into a business, this course offers a clear path. Get ready to dive into a fulfilling project that not only brings in an income but also delivers joy to countless pets and their owners.

How much you can make: $33,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 45 days (?)

6. Start a dropshipping apparel

Revenue in the clothing market will reach a staggering $153.6 Billion in the next few years.

With online shopping growing steadily, starting an apparel dropshipping business is becoming a go-to niche for many new and established e-commerce business owners.

If you are interested in starting a clothing dropshipping business, find a reliable and experienced dropshipping platform that allows you to Easily add your clothing items and start to dropship fashion.

How much you can make: $150,000/month

7. Start a home tutoring business ($465K/month)

A home tutoring company is an educational company that offers private tutoring from a tutor who visits the students at the student’s home.

Home tutoring is a growing business opportunity for motivated people and comes with the flexibility of working anytime, anywhere, and creates a passive income.

If you love teaching and helping others, one way to make money is to start a home tutoring business. Whether you want to tutor kids or adults, there’s a niche for you.

Once you have started your home tutoring business, promote it by putting fliers at other stores and on bulletin boards at colleges and libraries. Also, engage parents and guardians for home tutoring opportunities.

How much you can make: $100,000 — $830,000/month

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

8. Start an ecommerce store ($287K/month)

An eCommerce business is a company that sells products or services online. Ecommerce businesses have many advantages over brick-and-mortar businesses, including lower overhead costs, increased flexibility and reach, and the ability to reach a wider audience.

eCommerce is booming right now because of the convenience and efficiency it offers consumers. Consumers can buy products from their favorite brands on a platform that makes the whole process easier than ever. They don't have to leave their homes or go out in public, they can just sit down at their computer, tablet or smartphone and browse through all of the options available to them.

To start an ecommerce business, you'll need to set up a website where customers can browse your inventory and purchase items, as well as payment processing software that allows you to accept credit card payments. You'll also need to choose a shopping cart software and manage inventory tracking software.

How much you can make: $350 — $13,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

9. Start a freelance writing business ($62.6K/month)

Freelance writing can be a good career choice if you are looking for a flexible online job.

Working as a freelancer gives you the flexibility to define your work schedule. You can work from home at any time. Freelance writers work across various niches, writing about various topics assigned by the client,

To earn good money as a freelance writer, you need the following personal qualities:

  • Strong writing skills
  • Ability to meet deadlines
  • Stay on the cutting edge
  • Be a self-starter
  • Be up-to-date with the current writing tools & writing trends
  • Proper communication skills

How much you can make: $700 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 56 days (?)

10. Start a local merchandise sales business ($47.5K/month)

Looking to connect with your community while turning a profit? Consider starting a local merchandise sales business.

This business idea involves creating and selling products that reflect the unique culture and identity of your local area—whether it's branded t-shirts, custom mugs, or artisanal crafts. You cater to both residents who want to showcase their local pride and tourists looking for authentic souvenirs. The focus is on sourcing or creating items that resonate specifically with your local market.

By engaging directly with your community, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of supporting local artisans and businesses. While there’s significant upfront work, such as product design, sourcing, and building relationships with local vendors, the rewards can be worthwhile. You'll need to manage inventory, set up retail space or an online store, and invest in local marketing.

If you've got an eye for design and a passion for your community, a local merchandise sales business can be a fulfilling way to make a living.

How much you can make: $45,000 — $50,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 75 days (?)

11. Start a real estate investment club ($305K/month)

Real estate investment clubs are non-profit organizations where investors join together to buy real estate properties and make joint investments.

Real Estate Investment clubs can work on 2 models: free to join for all or charge an annual fee, which would be less than a few hundred dollars. Every Real Estate Investment club should offer knowledge about different investment practices, how to advertise a service or a business, networking with fellow professionals in the real estate industry, etc.

To start a real estate club, you should consider the following points:

  1. Conduct market research and reach out to people who already have expertise in this field
  2. Attend meetings and find out how other clubs operate.
  3. Familiarize yourself with real estate laws and current market conditions.
  4. Once you decide your mission, start recruiting people and promoting your club

Investing in real estate can be a big step. Hence, it is always beneficial to form a partnership and find the best deal. Ideally, a club may charge between $50 to $150 per year.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $600,000/month

How long does it take to build: 240 days (?)

12. Start an e-book writing business ($34.8K/month)

An eBook business is profitable and flexible, letting you start a business from anywhere, while it is a low-cost business that is easy to start. You can make a living self-publishing and selling eBooks online as long as you are ready to invest your time and money in it.

Anyone can start an eBooks business! Just choose a niche that interests the target audience, and ensure in-depth research.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $62,500/month

How much does it cost to start: $67 (?)

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

13. Start a digital art & design business ($25.7K/month)

Digital art and design is often used to create visual content for websites, apps, and other digital platforms.

Digital art and design businesses can be either freelance or full-time.

They can work in-house for larger companies or as independent contractors for other businesses or individuals.

How much you can make: $876 — $169,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

14. Sell stock photos

Stock photography is the supply of licensed photographs for specific uses. If you have a camera and love traveling or taking photos, you can start your own stock photo business.

Create a stock photography website and upload the best shots to start your stock photography business. To ensure professional images, you can hire freelance photographers and photo editors. Alternatively, you can invest in a professional camera and learn the art of photography before launching your business.

Running a stock photo website allows you to create unlimited earning potential. Besides, stock photographers enjoy flexible working hours and have the potential for passive income.

How much you can make: $10,000/month

How long does it take to build: 3 days (?)

15. Offer a parenting training courses ($67.6K/month)

Parenting can be rewarding yet extremely challenging. This is where parenting training courses come in. These courses provide parents with essential skills and strategies to manage the complex responsibilities of raising children effectively.

Imagine offering structured programs that cover everything from effective communication to discipline techniques and emotional well-being. You’ll be helping overwhelmed parents navigate their daily struggles and improve family dynamics.

The demand for parenting support is high, making this a viable business opportunity. You don’t need to be an expert on day one; you can collaborate with child psychologists, pediatricians, and experienced educators to develop your curriculum.

The work involves designing courses, marketing them to your target audience, and continuously gathering feedback to refine your programs. It’s a fulfilling venture where you get to impart life-changing skills to families. If you have a passion for supporting and educating parents, this could be the right path for you.

How much you can make: $200 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

16. Start a mom blog ($5.33K/month)

Parenting may be an overwhelming journey. Mothers result to the internet to read stories from other moms.

Reading mom’s blogs makes parenting feel less alone a long way. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or passionate about parenting, you can consider starting a mommy blog.

You can make money through affiliate links or by selling your merchandise on the blog. To increase traffic to your blog, include resourceful and encouraging content.

How much you can make: $3,000 — $10,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)

17. Write a golf tips e-book

eBooks sell in millions annually, and their segment is projected to reach over 13 Billion.

The good news with the eBook business is there is room for anyone. If you love golf, you can start publishing golf eBooks that teach beginners how to perfect their golfing skills. Alternatively, you can write stories about golfing or general analyses of the golfing industry.

18. Start a lifestyle youtube channel ($110K/month)

Want to turn your daily routines into compelling content? Consider starting a lifestyle YouTube channel. This business idea involves creating videos that showcase various aspects of your life, from home organization hacks to fitness routines and travel adventures.

With a smartphone and basic editing software, you can start producing engaging videos that draw in viewers. Building a successful channel will require consistency, creativity, and commitment to producing high-quality content.

The potential for revenue comes from multiple streams: ad revenue, sponsored content, and selling your own products or services. As you grow your subscriber base, so does your earning potential.

Think of it as a digital diary that not only shares your life but also inspires others while generating income. If you're passionate about sharing your life experiences and connecting with a vast audience, a lifestyle YouTube channel could be an ideal venture.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $320,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

More business ideas

  • 19. Start an amazon handmade business

20. Start a printable sales business

Printable sales businesses involve creating and selling printable items such as stationary, invitations, wall art, and other decorative items that the customer can print at home or through a professional printing service. This type of business is famous for its low startup costs and flexibility, as it can be run from a home office or online store.

To run a successful printable sales business, it is important to have strong design skills and a unique aesthetic to stand out in a crowded market. It is also essential to have a clear brand identity and a well-designed website to showcase your products and make it easy for customers to purchase.

One key tip for running a successful printable sales business is to offer a range of products to appeal to a broader audience. This can include different styles and themes to suit different occasions and offer customization options for customers who want something more personalized.

Another important aspect of running a successful printable sales business is staying up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in the industry. This can involve taking online courses or attending workshops to learn new design software and techniques, as well as keeping an eye on popular design trends and adapting your products accordingly.

Finally, it is essential to have excellent customer service and communication skills in a printable sales business. This includes responding promptly to customer inquiries, offering support and assistance with printing issues, and being open to feedback and suggestions to improve your products and services.

How much you can make: $1,000/month

How long does it take to build: 2000 days (?)

More business ideas

  • 21. Start a photo mugs and plates business

22. Start a travel youtube channel

A travel YouTube channel shares videos of anything from you or your family traveling to places you have been to or even things you have seen. There are several goals for starting a travel YouTube channel. For example, You can make money from it or use the channel to promote your travel agency.

However, you should do some research before starting your channel to know what kind of content you want to create and what type of equipment you need.

More business ideas

  • 23. Start a dividend investing business

24. Start a moms training on self defense business

Keeping moms and families safe can become a sustainable and impactful business.

The idea is to offer self-defense training specifically designed for mothers, focusing on practical and accessible techniques that can be used in real-world situations. The business involves organizing workshops, online courses, and personalized training sessions targeting the unique challenges that moms may face.

Not only will you provide valuable skills that increase safety, but you will also foster a community of empowered women ready to protect themselves and their families. With more awareness about personal safety today, a dedicated self-defense business for moms has the potential to attract significant interest.

Starting this business requires a strong foundation in martial arts or self-defense training, a reliable team of certified instructors, and an environment conducive to learning and practicing these skills. Marketing and outreach efforts should focus on local communities and social media to build trust and a sense of belonging among participants.

How much you can make: $6,000/month

More business ideas

  • 25. Start a children's personal safety courses business
  • 26. Start a personalized story time books business
  • 27. Start a freelance cafe baking business
  • 28. Start a vehicle wrap business

29. Start a product design business ($100K/month)

Got a flair for creativity and a knack for solving problems? Starting a product design business could be your ideal venture. In simple terms, product design involves creating and refining products to meet both user needs and market demands.

Starting out, you'll need to engage with clients to understand their vision, sketch designs, create prototypes, and collaborate with manufacturers. The real work here is in the details—every line and material choice contributes to the finished product.

This business is perfect for those who thrive on innovation and enjoy seeing their ideas come to life. It’s all about blending functionality with aesthetics, making things that are not only beautiful but also useful. Having a portfolio of well-designed products can set you apart in a competitive market.

If you're passionate about creating tangible objects from abstract ideas, this business will give you the satisfaction of making an impact on everyday lives.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $300,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 225 days (?)

More business ideas

  • 30. Start a maternity blog
  • 31. Start a rent out extra space
  • 32. Start a pinterest templates, graphics and art selling business
  • 33. Start a supermarket checkout app business

Frequently asked questions

Can you build passive income as a mom?

Yes, you can build passive income. As a mom, you can use your spare time to do a particular task, gig, or extra work. Due to the increase in expenses, inflation, and other things, building a passive income is becoming more of a necessity.

Of course, a passive income isn't meant to consume all of your time. After all, your primary concern is to finish your tasks as a mom.

A passive income not only helps build financial stability. Moreover, it helps you create a better future while you continue doing your tasks as a mom.

Now, a passive income doesn't necessarily mean one thing. In general, you can build a passive income by doing something you enjoy as a mom. As such, we have several ideas for you to know. These ideas can help you identify which one you like, so you enjoy your spare time and earn simultaneously.

Building passive income as a mom is possible since you get more flexible online work opportunities. So it's possible to do so, especially when you have some time to spare.

How can you build passive income as a mom?

Once you have established that you want to build passive income, the next thing to ask is how you would do so without compromising your mom duties.

In general, you'll find plenty of opportunities to build passive income as a mom. The key here is to evaluate what you want, how much you want to earn extra, and what passive income opportunity suits you as a mom.

With the ideas we share, you can build a passive income and work your way through financial stability while still keeping up with your duties as a mom.

Is passive income for moms truly passive?

Most passive income sources for moms are truly passive, meaning you don't have to work. However, such sources need some foundation to start.

In general, you won't necessarily have a passive income source without doing anything apart from being a mom. But, in most cases, you must work and spare some time and effort to start. Afterward, passive income starts, and you enjoy the benefits of your work.

Having a passive income isn't as easy as wanting it. As a mom, you should note that any income requires work. The only difference is that most passive income sources only require initial work.

On the other hand, some passive income sources would need you to spare some time, effort, and even some resources to continue. Such a thing is completely normal, and as a mom, you know you're doing it right when it's not so easy.

Conclusion

Online passive income is an excellent option if you are a mom looking for ways to make some extra money. Several options are available, and many of them can be started with little to no investment.

Do your research, find something that interests you, and get started! You may be surprised at how quickly those extra dollars start adding up. What have you got to lose?

meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.