Side Hustles Surge as Inflation Pressures U.S. Workers

Americans Patch Together Multiple Jobs to Stay Afloat

With wages stagnating, inflation lingering, and layoffs looming over multiple industries, more Americans are piecing together income from two, three, or even four jobs — a growing trend dubbed “polyworking.” The Associated Press reports that workers across the country are diversifying their income streams to create financial cushions, pursue passions, and reduce reliance on any single employer.

For 29-year-old Katelyn Cusick, polyworking has become a way of life. She works full-time as a visual merchandiser for Patagonia, manages social media influencers for a German shoe brand, runs an Etsy shop selling her paintings, and ushers at concerts to see live shows for free. The extra income helps offset high living costs and years of flat wages. Just as importantly, she says, the variety keeps her energized: “Every day feels like a new day.”

A Search for Stability in an Uncertain Economy

Sociologists point to broader economic stressors behind the surge in side gigs. “We have seen stagnant salaries, inflation, and a rising cost of living,” said Alexandrea Ravenelle of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. “People are building themselves a safety net.”

Some workers are carving out “portfolio careers,” assembling multiple roles that build distinct skills. Others turn to app-based gig work through Uber, Grubhub, Instacart, and Spark for immediate pay — though experts warn that relying too heavily on gig platforms carries risks.

Side Jobs Offer Both Opportunity and Tradeoffs

The AP highlights workers who pursue passion-driven side businesses, like Josie White of Utah, who balances her full-time nonprofit job with public-speaking engagements about mental health. Others, like Tom Ritter of Syracuse, use delivery work to bridge gaps after job loss.

But polyworking can also strain work-life balance and expose people to scams. As Ravenelle notes, “The house always wins when it comes to gig platforms.” Still, for many Americans, stacking jobs has become an essential strategy in an uncertain economy.