15 Top Side Hustles for Firefighters (2026): Generate Over $1,000 Monthly

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      What are the top side hustles for firefighters?

      Given their distinctive schedules, almost every firefighter I know has had at least one side hustle!

      In this article, I will outline my preferred side hustles for firefighters based on:

      My 15+ years of side hustle experience

      Discussions with actual firefighters

      Flexibility in schedule and income potential

      According to Career Explorer, the average salary for firefighters is $78,000 annually, yet they often have ample downtime to engage in other income-generating activities. Here are my top recommendations.

      Ready? Let’s dive in!

      1. Hotshot Crew Firefighting

      Any firefighter will tell you that the quickest way to increase earnings is by taking on extra shifts. There's the highest demand during wildfire season.

      While this work is extremely hazardous, many firefighters find the compensation justifies the risk. Members of “hotshot” crews receive hazard pay and overtime in addition to their standard wages.

      However, securing time off from regular duties to join a hotshot crew can be challenging.

      2. Reselling Furniture Returns

      This unique and low-risk side hustle involves joining Sharetown as a local “reverse logistics” representative. Sharetown collaborates with direct-to-consumer mattress and furniture brands to manage their return requests.

      When customers choose not to keep an item, you'll be assigned to pick it up, then you’ll:

      clean it

      take photographs

      list it for resale on platforms like Facebook Marketplace

      The Sharetown representatives I've spoken with aim for $150-250 in profit per item—and notably, you don’t need to pay Sharetown for the inventory until it sells.

      Refer to my full Sharetown review for more details.

      3. Handyperson Service

      If you’re skilled at fixing things, consider launching a handyman business. While it may be a typical blue-collar business idea, if you already possess the necessary tools for home projects, your startup costs will be minimal.

      Utilizing odd job platforms like TaskRabbit, Thumbtack, and NextDoor can connect you with individuals who require your services.

      Apps such as TaskRabbit allow you to set your own rates and accept payments through the app, simplifying the payment process.

      4. Construction

      Working in construction during off-duty hours is another prevalent side hustle for firefighters. This work involves physical labor and may include:

      framing homes

      drywall installation

      carpentry

      fitting cabinets or appliances

      tile setting

      and more

      Hourly rates typically range from $20-40, depending on your location and skill level.

      5. Real Estate Investing

      Real estate investing has long been a popular side hustle, but purchasing properties can be expensive!

      Fortunately, new platforms like Arrived make it easy to invest in income-generating properties with as little as $100.

      They pool money to acquire rental properties, manage them, and distribute the monthly cash flow.

      Pros of Arrived:

      Earn quarterly dividends

      Completely hands-off

      Low minimum investment ($100)

      Cons:

      Limited liquidity

      Lack of diversification

      Listings may sell out quickly

      I also found Austin Miller’s innovative strategy of building a rental portfolio—comprising 17 properties worth $1.2 million—impressive. Remarkably, he acquired them “free” without using any of his own finances.

      6. Window Washing

      Window washing is another excellent low-cost side hustle.

      You can schedule window cleaning on your terms, covering both residential and commercial properties.

      You can charge in various ways: by pane, by the window, or by the hour. Johnny Robinson, co-founder of Orange Window Cleaning, mentioned flat-rate pricing of $15.75 per window.

      Most providers typically earn between $40-$75 per hour.

      7. Fitness Coaching

      As a firefighter, your physical fitness can literally make a difference between life and death. Given your knowledge of maintaining strength, others may pay you to train them.

      Side Hustle Nation has highlighted many entrepreneurs who have successfully built fitness side hustles online, such as:

      Carey Adam, who developed a running program for mothers

      April Whitney, who created an online strength-training program for petite women

      Melissa Witmer, who established a membership community for Ultimate Frisbee players

      Pat Flynn, who initiated a kettlebell-focused fitness blog

      8. Firefighter Career Coaching

      Could you utilize your expertise to assist others in starting or advancing their firefighting careers?

      For instance, Chief Dave Robertson initiated Fire Edge, an online career coaching service for current and aspiring firefighters. His rates begin at $100 per hour and include:

      Resume and cover letter evaluations

      Interview preparation and coaching

      Mock interviews

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