Best Money Making Apps in the USA 2025: Top Picks for Extra Income

Best Money Making Apps in USA 2025: Top 10 Apps to Earn Extra Income 

In today’s digital world, smartphones are more than just communication devices — they’re also powerful tools for making money. With the rapid growth of the gig economy, fintech, and side hustle culture, money-making apps have become one of the easiest ways to earn extra income from the comfort of your home (or even on the go).

 

As we step into 2025, these apps have only gotten smarter, safer, and more rewarding. Whether you’re looking for a full-time side hustle, passive income, or just a way to earn a little extra cash, there’s an app for you. Below, we’ll explore the “best money-making apps in the USA for 2025”, how they work, and why they stand out. 

1. Swagbucks Best for: Surveys, cashback, and quick tasks 

Swagbucks has been a household name in the online earning space for years. In 2025, it remains one of the most trusted platforms for making extra money through surveys, online shopping, watching videos, and even playing games. 

How you earn: Complete surveys, shop through their partner stores, scan receipts, or complete small tasks. 

Payout options: PayPal cash, Amazon gift cards, and dozens of other retailers. 

Why it’s great: Easy to use, consistent, and flexible. Perfect for people who want to make money during downtime. 

2. Upwork 

Best for: Freelancers and professionals 

If you’ve got a skill — whether it’s writing, graphic design, programming, or even virtual assistance — Upwork is one of the best places to monetize it. The platform has expanded in 2025 to include even more categories, making it easier for professionals of all levels to find gigs. 

How you earn: Create a profile, pitch to clients, and complete freelance projects. 

Payout options: Direct deposit, PayPal, and wire transfer. 

Why it’s great: Endless opportunities and the chance to build long-term client relationships. 

3. Uber & Lyft 

Best for: Drivers looking for flexible income 

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft continue to dominate the gig economy in the U.S. In 2025, these apps offer more than just ride-hailing. Both have expanded into delivery services, offering additional income streams for drivers. 

How you earn: Driving passengers, delivering food, or even grocery orders. 

Payout options: Instant pay or weekly direct deposit. 

Why it’s great: Set your own schedule and work as much or as little as you like. 

4. DoorDash 

Best for: Food delivery workers 

With the explosion of food delivery demand, DoorDash has become one of the most profitable apps for drivers in 2025. Many people now use DoorDash alongside Uber Eats and Grubhub to maximize earnings. 

How you earn: Deliver food from local restaurants to customers. 

Payout options: Weekly deposits or instant cash out. 

Why it’s great: High demand, especially in busy cities. 

5. Robinhood 

Best for: Beginner investors 

Want to make money by investing? Robinhood has simplified stock trading for millions of Americans. In 2025, it also offers crypto trading, retirement accounts, and educational tools for beginners. 

How you earn: Invest in stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies. 

Payout options: Withdraw your profits directly to your bank. Why it’s great: Commission-free trades and user-friendly design. 

6. Rakuten 

Best for: Cashback while shopping 

Rakuten (formerly Ebates) is a cashback app that pays you real money for purchases you were going to make anyway. With hundreds of partner stores like Walmart, Macy’s, and Best Buy, it’s a favorite among savvy shoppers. 

How you earn: Shop through the Rakuten app or website and earn cashback. 

Payout options: PayPal or “Big Fat Check.” 

Why it’s great: Effortless way to save money and earn at the same time. 

7. TaskRabbit Best for: Local gigs and services 

If you’re good with your hands, TaskRabbit is one of the best apps for making money in 2025. From assembling furniture to running errands, people hire Taskers for all kinds of jobs. 

How you earn: Offer services like cleaning, moving, handyman work, or errands. 

Payout options: Direct deposit. 

Why it’s great: Set your own rates and work locally. 

8. Acorns Best for: Passive investing 

Acorns makes investing effortless by rounding up your everyday purchases and investing the spare change. It’s an ideal app for beginners who want to build wealth without actively managing their portfolio. 

How you earn: Your money grows over time in diversified portfolios. 

Payout options: Bank withdrawals. 

Why it’s great: Passive income with little effort required. 

9. Airbnb 

Best for: Homeowners or renters with extra space 

If you have an extra room, apartment, or even a vacation home, Airbnb remains one of the most profitable money-making apps in 2025. Travelers are always looking for affordable stays, and Airbnb makes hosting easy. 

How you earn: List your property, host guests, and get paid per booking. 

Payout options: Direct deposit, PayPal, or international payment options. 

Why it’s great: Can generate significant income, especially in tourist-heavy areas. 

10. Fiverr 

Best for: Side hustlers with creative skills 

Similar to Upwork, Fiverr connects freelancers with clients, but it specializes in smaller, more affordable gigs starting at $5. In 2025, it has grown into a full-fledged freelancing marketplace where professionals earn thousands of dollars. 

How you earn: Offer services like logo design, content writing, voiceovers, or video editing. 

Payout options: PayPal or direct deposit. 

Why it’s great: Easy to start, and you control your pricing and packages. 

Tips for Maximizing Earnings with Money-Making Apps Making money with apps isn’t just about signing up — it’s about being strategic. Here are some quick tips to maximize your income: 

1. Diversify your apps – Don’t rely on just one. Combine survey apps, freelancing platforms, and delivery apps for better results. 

2. Track your time vs. earnings – Some apps pay more efficiently than others. Focus on the ones that give you the best hourly rate. 

3. Stay consistent – The more active you are, the more opportunities you’ll get. 

4. Use referral bonuses – Many apps offer cash for inviting friends. This can be an easy way to boost income. 

5. Stay safe – Stick to well-reviewed apps and never share sensitive information unless necessary. 

Final Thoughts 

The world of money-making apps in the USA has come a long way, and in 2025, it’s easier than ever to earn extra cash with just your smartphone. Whether you prefer gig work like driving and delivering, passive income through investing, or freelancing in your spare time, there’s an app that fits your lifestyle. 

The best part? You don’t have to choose just one. By combining multiple apps, you can create a reliable stream of side income that supports your financial goals. So, why wait? Download a few of these apps today and start making money in 2025!