12 Easy Ways To Make Extra Money In Brighton
Brighton’s one of those places that feels like it's buzzing all the time. Sunshine, creativity, festivals, dog-friendly cafés, and a steady flow of visitors.
But let’s be real: while life in Brighton is rich in vibes, it’s not exactly light on the wallet. The average cost of living here is 35% higher than the UK average, with rent alone taking a huge chunk of most paychecks.
Whether you're a student in the middle of term, a freelancer juggling gigs, or just someone looking to top up your income, there are loads of smart, flexible ways to make extra cash in Brighton.
We've rounded up 12 money-making ideas that fit Brighton’s unique personality - from festival work to side hustles you can do from your sofa.
And yes, you can even make money playing games. If you're ready to start earning, check out Prograd, we've got loads of hand-picked, legit ways to make money online and locally.
Need some more ideas? Let's get into it...
Play Online Games for Cash
Brighton’s chilled energy is perfect for low-effort side gigs, and playing games for cash is exactly that. Platforms featured on Prograd’s gaming section let you earn by completing simple in-game tasks - things like reaching a level or finishing a challenge.
It’s not a gimmick; some players earn up to £180 per game depending on the platform. You can do it on the bus, between lectures, or on your lunch break.
Earning potential: Up to £180 per game
Work at Festivals and Events
Brighton’s events scene is next-level. Think Brighton Pride, The Great Escape, Brighton Fringe, you name it. These massive festivals bring in thousands of people and always need extra hands.
Roles can include bar work, ticket scanning, security, or helping set up stages. Bonus: you often get free access to events you’re working at.
Earning potential: £10–£15/hour, plus tips and perks
Sell Handmade Art or Crafts
With Brighton’s reputation for indie style and creativity, handmade goods do really well here. From Sunday markets to pop-up craft fairs in The Lanes, people love unique, personal pieces. If you're crafty - think candles, jewellery, illustrations - there’s a ready audience.
List your products online and hit local events too.
Earning potential: £50–£300+ per event or market day
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Brighton is obsessed with dogs. Whether it’s pugs in coffee shops or spaniels on the beach, the demand for pet care is strong.
Sign up on Prograd’s recommended pet sitting apps, or go old school and offer services around your neighbourhood.
Earning potential: £10–£15/hour or £25+ overnight
Do Online Surveys and Micro Tasks
For those quiet evenings when you’ve got 20 minutes to spare, paid online surveys are an easy win.
Sites like Swagbucks and Branded Surveys (both on Prograd) let you earn for answering questions, testing products, or watching ads.
Earning potential: £50–£100/month depending on time invested
Clean Homes or Airbnb Rentals
With Brighton’s huge number of Airbnb properties and weekend visitors, hosts are always looking for reliable cleaners.
You can pick up regular jobs or just be available for one-off turnovers between guests. Perfect if you like working solo and want a physical, no-desk job.
Earning potential: £12–£18/hour
Work in Hospitality (Seasonal or Ongoing)
From beach bars to vegan cafés in Kemptown, Brighton’s hospitality sector always needs part-time help.
It’s especially busy during summer, weekends, and during festivals. The social atmosphere makes it one of the more enjoyable jobs if you thrive around people.
Earning potential: £10–£13/hour + tips
Become a Tour Guide (Yes, Really)
If you know your way around Brighton and have a bit of confidence, you can actually make money leading walking tours.
Whether it’s street art, LGBTQ+ history, or haunted pubs, there’s a niche for it. Use platforms like Airbnb Experiences or local Facebook groups to advertise.
Earning potential: £20–£100 per tour (group-based)
Babysit or Nanny
Brighton’s full of young families, especially in areas like Hove and Fiveways. Parents are often looking for part-time nannies or evening babysitters.
If you’re reliable and have some experience with kids, it’s a flexible and well-paying side hustle.
Earning potential: £10–£14/hour or more for regular nanny roles
Offer Garden Help or Window Cleaning
The city’s terraces and seaside homes need TLC, and many homeowners are happy to pay someone to mow the lawn, tidy the yard, or clean windows. It’s ideal for spring/summer and requires little equipment to start.
Earning potential: £15–£25/hour
Start Freelancing (Writing, Design, Admin)
If you’ve got a skill - writing, admin, social media, editing - start freelancing on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
Brighton’s digital-first energy means a lot of local businesses also outsource tasks. Find gigs online or pitch local clients directly.
Earning potential: £10–£40/hour depending on skill
Rent Out Your Parking Space
Parking in Brighton is a nightmare. If you live centrally and have a drive or allocated space, rent it out to commuters or tourists.
Apps like JustPark make it easy to manage.
Earning potential: £5–£20/day
Do Short-Term Delivery Driving
Apps like Deliveroo and Uber Eats are active all over Brighton. If you’ve got a bike or scooter, you can start delivering food around the city on your own schedule.
It’s physical, but good money, especially with tips.
Earning potential: £10–£18/hour
Earning Money in Brighton
Brighton’s the kind of place where you can turn almost any talent or free hour into extra income.
Whether you're out in the city working at events or earning from your sofa through gaming and surveys, there’s genuinely something for everyone. The key is to make it work around your lifestyle, and with resources like Prograd, getting started is easier than ever.
Looking to try more than one of these? Check out Prograd’s full guide to making money online and find the side hustle that suits you best.
