Are you a 13-year-old eager to make some extra cash? Or perhaps a parent looking for safe, rewarding job ideas for your teen? Earning money at this age is not only exciting but also a fantastic way to build responsibility, confidence, and financial skills. While labor laws limit traditional employment for young teens, there are plenty of creative and practical opportunities to explore. In this guide, I’ll share 20 of the best jobs for 13-year-olds, packed with actionable tips, real-world insights, and ideas to spark your entrepreneurial spirit. Let’s dive into these opportunities that are safe, fun, and perfect for young teens in 2025!
Why Work at 13? The Benefits of Earning Early
Starting to earn money as a 13-year-old is about more than just pocket cash—it’s a chance to learn life skills. From managing time to handling money, these early jobs lay the foundation for future success. Personally, I started doing small gigs at this age, and the thrill of earning my own money was unmatched! It taught me how to budget, communicate, and take pride in my work. Plus, in 2025, with digital tools and local opportunities, teens have more ways than ever to shine.
Before we jump into the jobs, a quick note on safety and legality. In many countries, including the U.S., 13-year-olds face restrictions on formal employment. The U.S. Department of Labor outlines rules, such as limiting work to non-school hours (e.g., 3 hours on school days, 8 hours on weekends). Always check local laws, ensure parental supervision, and prioritize safety by working with trusted people in familiar environments.
Top 20 Jobs for 13-Year-Olds
Here’s a curated list of jobs that are accessible, rewarding, and tailored for 13-year-olds. Each job includes practical steps, earning potential, and tips to stand out.
1. Babysitting: Be the Neighborhood Hero
Babysitting is a classic job for responsible 13-year-olds. Parents love hiring trustworthy teens to watch their kids for a few hours, especially for date nights or errands.
- What You’ll Do: Supervise younger children, play games, help with snacks, and ensure safety.
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per hour, depending on location and number of kids.
- How to Start: Spread the word through family friends or community boards. Take a babysitting or CPR course (online or local) to boost credibility.
- Pro Tip: Create a flyer with your availability and skills (e.g., “Fun, Responsible Babysitter, Certified in First Aid!”). Always have a parent nearby for safety.
When I was 13, I babysat for a neighbor’s toddler and earned enough to buy my first phone. The pride of managing that responsibility still sticks with me!
2. Dog Walking: Paws and Profits
Love dogs? Dog walking is a fun way to earn money while staying active. Busy pet owners need help exercising their furry friends.
- What You’ll Do: Walk dogs around the neighborhood, typically for 20–30 minutes per session.
- Earning Potential: $5–$15 per walk, with potential to walk multiple dogs.
- How to Start: Ask neighbors or post on local social media groups. A parent can join for the first few walks to meet clients.
- Pro Tip: Offer extras like water bowl refills or a quick photo update for owners to build trust.
3. Lemonade Stand: A Sweet Business Venture
A lemonade stand is a timeless way to learn business basics. It’s low-cost, fun, and perfect for warm days.
- What You’ll Do: Make and sell lemonade, possibly with snacks like cookies or brownies.
- Earning Potential: $0.50–$2 per cup, with daily earnings of $20–$50 on busy days.
- How to Start: Set up in your front yard or a community event. Use colorful signs and a friendly smile to attract customers.
- Pro Tip: Experiment with flavors (e.g., strawberry lemonade) or bundle deals to boost sales.
4. Pet Sitting: Care for Furry Friends
Pet sitting involves caring for pets while owners are away, perfect for animal lovers who want a flexible gig.
- What You’ll Do: Feed pets, refill water, play, and clean litter boxes or cages.
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per visit or $20–$50 per day for overnight care (with parental supervision).
- How to Start: Offer services to neighbors or family friends. Avoid staying alone at clients’ homes—have a parent assist.
- Pro Tip: Keep a pet care log to show owners what you did each visit.
5. Car Washing: Shine and Earn
Car washing is a great way to make money with minimal supplies. People love a sparkling clean car without the hassle.
- What You’ll Do: Wash and dry cars using soap, sponges, and towels.
- Earning Potential: $5–$15 per car, depending on size and detail.
- How to Start: Offer services door-to-door or set up a car wash station. Team up with friends for bigger jobs.
- Pro Tip: Add waxing or interior vacuuming for an extra fee to increase earnings.
6. House Cleaning: Tidy Up for Cash
Cleaning homes is a practical job for 13-year-olds who are organized and detail-oriented.
- What You’ll Do: Dust, vacuum, mop, or organize spaces for neighbors or family.
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per hour or $20–$50 per job.
- How to Start: Start with small tasks for relatives, then expand to neighbors. Create a checklist to ensure thorough work.
- Pro Tip: Wear gloves and use eco-friendly cleaners to appeal to health-conscious clients.
7. Tutoring: Share Your Smarts
If you excel in subjects like math, reading, or science, tutoring younger kids is a rewarding option.
- What You’ll Do: Help with homework or teach basic skills in person or online.
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per hour, depending on the subject and demand.
- How to Start: Offer services to younger siblings’ friends or post on community boards. Some platforms allow teens to tutor online with parental consent.
- Pro Tip: Prepare fun, engaging lessons to keep kids interested.
8. Lawn Mowing: Green Lawns, Green Pockets
Lawn mowing is perfect for teens who enjoy outdoor work and have access to a mower.
- What You’ll Do: Mow lawns, trim edges, and clear clippings.
- Earning Potential: $15–$30 per lawn, based on size.
- How to Start: Ask neighbors or use a family mower. Always prioritize safety with closed-toe shoes and adult supervision.
- Pro Tip: Offer weekly or biweekly services for steady income during summer.
9. Snow Shoveling: Winter Cash Flow
In snowy regions, shoveling driveways and sidewalks is a high-demand winter job.
- What You’ll Do: Clear snow from paths and driveways using a shovel or snow blower (with training).
- Earning Potential: $10–$25 per job or $15–$30 per hour.
- How to Start: Knock on doors after a snowfall or advertise in advance. Work in pairs for safety.
- Pro Tip: Bundle services like salting walkways for extra pay.
10. Errand Running: Be the Go-To Helper
Running errands for busy neighbors or elderly residents is a simple way to earn money.
- What You’ll Do: Pick up groceries, return library books, or take out trash.
- Earning Potential: $5–$15 per errand, depending on complexity.
- How to Start: Offer help to family friends or post flyers in your community.
- Pro Tip: Keep a schedule to manage multiple clients efficiently.
11. Craft Selling: Turn Creativity into Cash
Creative teens can sell handmade items like jewelry, candles, or artwork.
- What You’ll Do: Make and sell crafts at local markets, school events, or online (with parental help).
- Earning Potential: $5–$50 per item, depending on materials and demand.
- How to Start: Use platforms like Etsy (with parental supervision) or set up a booth at fairs.
- Pro Tip: Take high-quality photos of your crafts to attract buyers.
12. Yard Work: Beautify Neighborhoods
Yard work like raking leaves or weeding is a great way to stay active and earn money.
- What You’ll Do: Rake, weed, or plant flowers for homeowners.
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per hour or $15–$40 per job.
- How to Start: Offer services to neighbors or advertise on community boards.
- Pro Tip: Bring your own tools to show professionalism.
13. Garage Sale Helper: Organize and Sell
Helping with garage sales is a fun, short-term gig for 13-year-olds.
- What You’ll Do: Sort items, set up tables, and assist customers during sales.
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per sale or $5–$10 per hour.
- How to Start: Ask neighbors planning sales or offer to co-host one.
- Pro Tip: Learn basic haggling skills to help close sales.
14. Junior Camp Counselor: Lead and Play
Junior camp counselors assist at summer or day camps, perfect for outgoing teens.
- What You’ll Do: Help with games, crafts, and supervision under adult counselors.
- Earning Potential: $50–$200 per week, often with free camp access.
- How to Start: Apply at local camps, especially if you’ve attended them before.
- Pro Tip: Highlight leadership or teamwork skills in your application.
15. YouTuber: Create and Connect
Starting a YouTube channel is a creative outlet for teens passionate about gaming, crafts, or vlogs.
- What You’ll Do: Record, edit, and upload videos on topics you love.
- Earning Potential: $0 initially, but $100–$1,000+ monthly with growth via ads or sponsorships.
- How to Start: Use a smartphone and free editing apps. Get parental help to set up a channel.
- Pro Tip: Focus on consistent, unique content to grow your audience.
16. Video Game Streaming: Game and Earn
Streaming gameplay on Twitch or YouTube is a fun way to share your skills.
- What You’ll Do: Play games live, interact with viewers, and build a community.
- Earning Potential: $0–$100+ monthly via donations or subscriptions with growth.
- How to Start: Create an account with parental supervision and use basic streaming software.
- Pro Tip: Engage with viewers through chat to build loyalty.
17. Voice-Over Artist: Lend Your Voice
Voice acting is a creative job for teens with clear voices and good reading skills.
- What You’ll Do: Record voice-overs for student films, audiobooks, or small projects.
- Earning Potential: $10–$50 per project, with higher pay for bigger gigs.
- How to Start: Look for online casting calls or local theater opportunities.
- Pro Tip: Practice with a cheap microphone to improve clarity.
18. Tech Helper: Solve Digital Dilemmas
Tech-savvy teens can help older adults or neighbors with phones, computers, or social media.
- What You’ll Do: Teach basic tech skills, set up devices, or troubleshoot issues.
- Earning Potential: $10–$20 per hour or $5–$15 per task.
- How to Start: Offer help to family or post flyers in senior centers.
- Pro Tip: Be patient and explain tech in simple terms.
19. Recycling Collector: Eco-Friendly Earnings
Collecting recyclables like cans or bottles is a green way to make money.
- What You’ll Do: Gather recyclables from neighbors or local events and redeem them at recycling centers.
- Earning Potential: $0.05–$0.10 per item, potentially $10–$50 per collection.
- How to Start: Check local recycling rates and ask neighbors to save items.
- Pro Tip: Wear gloves and organize items to maximize efficiency.
20. Plant Care: Green Thumb Gigs
Caring for plants while owners are away is a low-stress job for nature lovers.
- What You’ll Do: Water plants, prune, or repot as needed.
- Earning Potential: $5–$15 per visit or $20–$50 per week.
- How to Start: Offer services to neighbors or vacationing families.
- Pro Tip: Learn basic plant care tips to avoid overwatering.
Tips for Success: How to Thrive as a Teen Worker
To make the most of these opportunities, here are some practical tips:
- Get Parental Support: Always involve parents or guardians for safety and guidance. They can help with contracts, transportation, or online setups.
- Market Yourself: Create simple flyers, post on community boards, or use social media (with parental oversight) to advertise your services.
- Set Fair Prices: Research local rates to stay competitive but fair. Don’t undervalue your work!
- Stay Safe: Work in familiar areas, avoid sharing personal info, and have a trusted adult nearby.
- Track Earnings: Use a notebook or app to log income and expenses. Consider opening a savings account with a parent to save for goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 13-Year-Old Legally Work?
Yes, but with restrictions. Jobs like babysitting, pet care, or yard work are allowed, but formal employment (e.g., retail) often requires a minimum age of 14 or 15. Check local labor laws for specifics.
What’s the Best Job for a 13-Year-Old?
It depends on interests! Babysitting and dog walking are popular for their flexibility and pay. Creative teens might prefer crafting or YouTubing, while active teens could enjoy lawn mowing or snow shoveling.
How Can a 13-Year-Old Manage Their Earnings?
Open a savings account with a parent to deposit earnings. Track income and spending in a notebook or app, and set goals like saving for a gadget or future expenses.
How Do 13-Year-Olds Find Clients?
Start with family, friends, or neighbors. Post flyers in safe community spaces, join local online groups (with parental help), or ask for referrals from satisfied clients.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Journey Today!
Earning money as a 13-year-old is an exciting step toward independence. Whether you’re babysitting, streaming games, or selling crafts, these jobs offer more than cash—they build skills, confidence, and a strong work ethic. I remember the thrill of my first gig, and it sparked a lifelong love for entrepreneurship. In 2025, with endless opportunities at your fingertips, there’s no better time to start!
Pick a job that matches your passions, involve your parents for safety, and take pride in your work. Which job are you most excited to try? Share your thoughts in the forum, and let’s inspire each other to hustle smart and dream big!
