The Best Work from Home Jobs That Pay Well in 2024 | Entrepreneur

In the past, working from home full-time was a rare opportunity, but the pandemic shifted the workforce landscape, creating a surge of full-time and part-time remote positions. Whether it’s working remotely for a company or starting your own business, these days there’s no shortage of work-from-home opportunities.

Working remotely has huge advantages for those who prefer a more flexible work environment. Pros of working from home can include:

• No time or cost spent on commuting.
• Less cost dedicated to professional attire.
• More options for home base location and travel opportunities.
• Schedules that allow people to work when they are most productive.
• Flexibility to run errands, make appointments or take care of dependents.

On the other hand, some remote workers have reported feelings of loneliness and isolation. If you are considering remote opportunities, make sure it is the right fit for your needs and personality.

Cons of working from home might include:

• Difficulty creating work-life balance.
• Less in-person contact with coworkers.
• Feelings of isolation due to lack of human connection.
• Negative bias from superiors who prefer in-person employees.
• Miscommunication due to lack of physical cues through technology.
• No opportunity for on-campus office perks like gyms or nutritious meals.

Related: 63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

If you decide working from home is right for you, look for stay-at-home jobs that fit your strengths. Here are more than 40 work-from-home opportunities, some of which require specialized training and many of which can be lucrative.

All average salaries sourced from Glassdoor or ZipRecruiter

1. Affiliate marketer

Affiliate marketing is a referral strategy in which you link to products and earn a commission on sales. Let’s say you have a website and link to a product on Amazon. When the visitor clicks the affiliate link and buys that product, Amazon will pay you a percentage of the sale as long as you’ve gone through the work to enroll in their affiliate program. You have to do work on the front end to make sure you’re enrolled with affiliate partners, but with relatively few startup costs, affiliate marketing can be a major source of passive income. Average salary: $82,000 annually

2. Animator

If you’re an artist capable of creating animation and visual effects for television, movies, video games and other types of media, you often can find remote work as a freelance animator or illustrator. Many marketing agencies and publishers are also looking to hire independent contractors, which can lead to consistent freelance work. Average salary: $73,000 annually

3. Baker, caterer or chef

If you already have a knack for baking, cooking and arranging meals, you could turn your passion into a side hustle. Maybe you start small by baking goods for friends, neighbors, online customers or at a local farmer’s market. You could also launch a catering business or become a personal chef, though those endeavors may require more on-site work. Before you start selling any food products, though, look into the cottage food and catering licensing requirements in your state. Salary and income varies

4. Writer and editor

Content writing and editing services are in high demand and can be an excellent way to make a living while working from home. You could run and monetize your own blog (see: affiliate marketing), offer copywriting and editing services to businesses or even write grants for nonprofits, universities, hospitals and other entities. Organizations large and small need freelancers to support their content initiatives, and sites like Fiverr and Upwork can be great places to find gigs — and for potential clients to find you. Salary and income varies

5. Bookkeeper or tax preparer

You don’t have to be a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to work as a bookkeeper, however you’ll likely want to take an online course or one at a local college if you don’t have previous experience. Once you’ve completed a course, you can work part time to help businesses keep their books. You can also help individuals prepare their taxes, but be sure to seek appropriate training and consider earning certifications that will keep you in compliance with Internal Revenue Service requirements. If you’re already a CPA, either of these jobs you can do at home with relatively little additional training. Average salary: $68,000 annually

6. Career and life coaching

Career and life coaching has taken off in recent years, as many people are trying to set and accomplish new goals or clear both personal and professional hurdles. While anyone can become a career or life coach (and not everyone should), there are courses you can take and certifications you can earn that will lend your business authenticity and better equip you to work one-on-one with clients. Before you take on clients, it’s important to think about your qualifications, area of expertise and determine what specific services you can provide. Salary and income varies

7. Child caregiver

As the price of daycare soared in recent years, families began looking for solutions — which in some cases led parents to launch their own child caregiving businesses. Whether it’s for a couple of hours or the entire day, running a childcare business from your home can be lucrative, though you’ll want to make sure that you obtain the correct licenses and permits. Salary and income varies

8. Clinical research coordinator

Clinical research coordinators help manage operations for clinical trials — which involves maintaining and organizing documentation, working closely with a team of medical professionals and ensuring all aspects of trials follow pre-established guidelines. While this type of gig typically requires post-secondary education, it can often be done from an at-home office. Average salary: $60,000 annually

9. Computer programmer

Computer programmers typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field or at minimum need to take a coding bootcamp. If you’ve done this and you’re fluent in programming languages like HTML, JavaScript, CSS, Ruby, Python or others, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to land a well-paying job that allows you to work from home. Average salary: $114,000 annually

10. Consultant

If you have experience and knowledge in a specific area, then consider sharing it with others through consulting. For example, if you’re an accountant or a lawyer, you can provide career advice to small businesses. If you have a background in software, you could help businesses make informed decisions about emerging technology. Before you start consulting, consider your skills and experience; the longer track record you have, the more likely people will consider you an authority in your field. Salary and income varies

11. Customer service representative

It’s relatively easy to get set up as a customer service representative. You need excellent communication skills, a landline and a computer from which you can access a company’s call-log system. Once you’re set up, you can often choose your own hours — customer service lines are frequently 24/7 — and determine a schedule that works best for you. In some cases, you may need a degree in a relevant field. Average salary: $48,000 annually

12. Data entry clerk

Inputting data is a job that doesn’t require much previous experience and many businesses are in need of data entry services. Typically, the role involves taking large data sets and typing them into spreadsheets or other online data storage systems. You’ll need quick, accurate typing skills and a computer with internet access. Average salary: $42,000 annually

13. Ecommerce store owner

The ecommerce industry has exploded in recent years with no signs of slowing down. Some ecommerce business models include dropshipping, wholesaling, manufacturing, white-labeling and subscriptions. If you’re already creating a product, you may be well-positioned to launch an online side hustle. However, even if you don’t have a product, you can rely on one of the aforementioned business models — and sites like Shopify, Magento and WooCommerce — to make money via ecommerce. Salary and income varies

14. Instructional video producer

When people run into problems — with their car, with an appliance or with most things in life — one of the first places they turn to is YouTube. If you have a particular skill or knack for problem solving, you can grow a major following on the platform by recording and posting instructional videos. They don’t have to be the highest quality, either. If you can help people fix an issue, you’ll rack up followers and soon start earning money via YouTube’s partner program. Salary and income varies

15. Graphic designer

If you’re a digital designer and a pro at using products like Adobe or Canva, many businesses or organizations may be in need of your services to design logos, websites or even ads. You can likely find a full-time job doing graphic design work that allows you to work from home, but as a graphic designer you can also make good money building a client list as a freelancer. Average salary: $65,000 annually

16. Handmade crafter

If making handmade products like jewelry or furniture is already a hobby of yours, you could make it a full-time endeavor from your home. You’ll need to launch an online shop — perhaps using Etsy or Shopify — and learn the basics of ecommerce. Consider promoting your shop on social media to build up a following, which could turn your talent for crafting into a lucrative business. Salary and income varies

17. Music instructor

If you’re a talented musician and a patient teacher, you could start offering music lessons in your living room. You could also consider teaching people virtually via video conference or recording lessons and uploading them to a YouTube channel, where others can learn from you. Average salary: $55,000 annually

18. Internet security specialist

Internet security specialists monitor networks for security threats and implement security standards. They can also install data protection systems. Given that online security is a major concern for many companies, this type of role is expected to grow steadily over the next several years. It does require specialized training in cybersecurity and advanced knowledge of computer software systems, and you’ll need access to a secure network to take on this type of work. Average salary: $119,000 annually

19. Mock online juror

When attorneys prepare their clients for a trial, they often seek feedback on their case and need people to stand in as mock jurors. While some of these opportunities are in person, many take place virtually as participants review transcripts, videos and photos, and then offer thoughts on the case. Here is a list of resources where you can find this kind of opportunity. Salary and income varies

20. Online teacher or tutor

As with many professions, education has evolved over the past several years and in many cases can now be done from a home office. So, if you’re a teacher or a subject matter expert looking for a more flexible schedule, consider teaching online courses or offering tutoring services through an online education company. Organizations like K12 and Connections Academy are good places to start, but it’s also worth inquiring with local school districts and community colleges. You will likely need prerequisite educational and work experience, and in some cases, you’ll need a teaching license. Salary and income varies

21. Patent or intellectual property attorney

While some lawyers must spend their days in office or in court, there are work-from-home opportunities across the profession, particularly in areas of the law like patents and intellectual property, where the administrative work can be done from a computer. If this type of law is already your area of expertise, you could generate income without having to leave your home. Average salary: $156,000 annually

22. Peer-to-peer lender

Thanks to sites like Lending Club and Prosper you can lend money to a business or individual, and as an investor, make money on the paid interest of the loan. Regulations vary by state, so you’ll want to ensure you’re following the rules. Moreover, there are often minimum income requirements to become a lender, so you’ll need to prove your financial viability before you can count on peer-to-peer lending as a major source of passive income. Salary and income varies

23. Photo or video editor

If you’re handy with a camera, you can work as a photographer or videographer. While some of the work may require attending events, editing headshots or wedding videos can typically be done from home, as long as you have access to a computer and the right software. You can even sell your own images or videos on sites like Foap, allowing you to operate your business from home. Average salary: $65,000 annually

24. Podcaster

Audio storytelling is still in demand, and if you already have an audience — or the tools to build one — you might consider launching a podcast from your home. This will require investing in microphones and editing software at the very least – and if you bring in a large volume of listeners, you can sell ads and generate a profit. Salary and income varies

25. Product reviewer

If you have a knack for user design, you could earn a meaningful supplemental income as a product tester or reviewer. Many companies want to get feedback on their products (think: cosmetic products, tools, electronics, etc.) before they go to market. Typically, a company will pay you directly with money or with gift cards; you can also register to be a product reviewer on sites like UserTesting. Salary and income varies

26. Repair and maintenance provider

Are you handy and known for fixing things — like bicycles, cars, computers or small engines? Consider launching your own repair business. If you have garage space, tools and the know-how, you can start a business where people bring damaged goods directly to your house. If you already have the resources to get going, the startup costs won’t be more than the initial marketing effort to generate awareness around your business. Average salary: $65,000 annually

27. Refurbisher of used goods

There is a never-ending supply of cheap and free goods available on sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, not to mention what you might find at yard sales or second-hand stores. If you purchase furniture, electronics, outdoor gear and other goods at a bargain price, you can put in some effort and sell those items at a high margin. Salary and income varies

28. Seamstress or tailor

Many individuals need their clothing altered, and if you’re good with a needle and thread there are a variety of ways to put your sewing skills to work. You could consider specializing in wedding dresses, suits or even costume design. If you spend a little money on marketing, you could become the go-to alteration expert in your community. Average salary: $48,000 annually

29. SEO expert

Search engine optimization (SEO) is an important tactic to growing a business’ online presence. If you have experience growing digital traffic, particularly through SEO best practices, there are many remote job roles — full-time or part-time — where you can use your knowledge to help clients enhance their web presence and make money online. Average salary: $65,000 annually

30. Social media manager

Many businesses, organizations and individuals need someone to manage their social media accounts. In some cases, clients may even need you to develop an entire strategy for them. If you already spend a lot of time on social media and you have past experience managing brand profiles, creating ad campaigns and responding to comments and direct messages, you could start building a client list and work from anywhere you choose. Average salary: $65,000 annually

31. Stylist

If you have an eye for new fashion trends, you can make a living as a stylist from home. Thanks to virtual meetings and online ordering systems, you can help people assemble their wardrobe for work, special events or just daily living. Using sites like Nuuly and Rent the Runway you can order many outfits, send them to a client and advise them on the ones that most fit their needs and personal style. Average salary : $40,000 annually

32. Survey taker

As with testing products, you can earn money by participating in opinion polls, answering questions about your shopping habits or giving feedback on a business operation. Typically, you’ll be paid by gift card or another incentive other than cash, but it can still turn into a lucrative side hustle. Salary and income varies

Related: Can you Really Get Paid Completing Surveys?

33. Telephone triage nurse

If you’re a registered nurse you could work for health insurers or health management companies like Humana, Aetna and UnitedHealthcare. Even CVS Health offers customer support jobs, hiring nurses to remotely handle case management, treatment authorization and patient education. Average salary: $88,000 annually

34. Transcriptionist

Transcribing is a relatively simple endeavor, which involves listening to audio files like lectures, medical dictations or legal recordings and typing verbatim what you hear. It often only requires entry-level experience, but you must be a quick typist and produce error-free work. While some companies have turned to artificial intelligence for transcription services, many industries are still looking for human transcriptionists to ensure accuracy. Average salary: $55,000 annually

35. Translator or interpreter

If you are fluent in multiple languages, you can start earning a living by translating documents or becoming an interpreter. While earning an American Translators Association certification is not a requirement of every job, it will lend your business credibility and help you attract clients in a variety of areas including business and government, as well as individuals who need help navigating language barriers. Average salary: $57,000 annually

36. Travel agent or advisor

Although consumers have access to numerous travel sites that make planning a trip a breeze, the process can still be time-consuming. That’s why there are still job opportunities for travel agents to scour the web for the best deals, share advice or plan itineraries. Moreover, many people have turned to social media to share their travel hacks and earn supplemental income along the way. Average salary: $90,000 annually

37. Vehicle renter

Due to high fees, many people look to avoid rental car services when they visit a new place, and some people choose not to own a car altogether. That’s part of the reason peer-to-peer rental car sites have become so popular. If you have a vehicle that you don’t need all the time, you can rent it to individuals and make money while you’re at home and don’t need your car. Sites like Turo have built-in third-party liability, so you won’t have to worry about uninsured drivers behind the wheel. Salary and income varies

38. Virtual assistant

If you’re organized and can handle duties like replying to emails, calendar management, entering data and assisting with social media, then this type of job may be a great fit. Because many offices have shifted to fully remote work options, virtual assistants don’t have to sit behind a desk all day. Average salary: $55,000 annually

39. Virtual public relations representative

Many businesses don’t have the budget for a dedicated chief marketing officer, a vice president of marketing or even a public relations firm. But they may have the funds to hire a virtual public relations representative to take care of duties like promoting a business, writing press releases, interacting with the media or managing a crisis. Average salary: $53,000 annually

40. Virtual recruiter

Businesses large and small often need help building a workforce, but they may not need someone on staff full-time. If you have recruiting and networking experience, you could help businesses scour the web for great job candidates, screen applicants and become an integral part of the hiring process. Average salary: $65,000 annually

41. Virtual therapist

Are you already a licensed professional counselor (LPC)? If so, online therapy has taken off in the past few years, meaning you can offer services to clients in an exclusively virtual format if you choose. The opportunities to practice therapy online vary depending on your employer and clients’ healthcare, but it’s becoming more and more accessible. However, if you’re going to have out-of-state clients, be sure to secure appropriate licenses. Average salary: $65,000 annually

42. Voice actor

If you have a golden voice or acting experience, you could make a living by recording scripts for commercials, promotional videos and other audio files. If you’re just starting out, you might consider vocal training workshops, which will help you hone your craft and get leads on jobs. If you want to do this from home, though, you’ll need to invest in an at-home studio space — including high-quality microphones and sound-proofing equipment. Average salary: $90,000 annually

43. Website tester

Businesses want to make sure their websites are intuitive and easy to navigate. As such, they’ll assign instructions for people to follow to test the user experience. You can work with websites like Test.io and become a freelance tester for a variety of digital products including new websites as well as smartphone apps. To qualify, most companies will expect you to have computer skills specific to their industry or track record of using similar products. Average salary: $65,000 annually

Need some guidance with the job search? Check out Entrepreneur’s articles for everything you need about resumes, cover letters and how to nail an interview.