The Best Gig Jobs for Rural Areas (Where Delivery Apps Don’t Exist)

Gig Economy Jobs

Living in a rural area can make finding flexible gig jobs a challenge, especially if popular delivery apps like DoorDash or Instacart arent available. But dont worry—there are still plenty of realistic ways to earn extra money from home or online, even if youre far from the city. Whether youre a student, stay-at-home parent, or just looking for a side hustle, this guide will walk you through the best gig jobs for rural areas, how to get started, and what you can expect.

Table of Contents

Online Surveys & Market Research

How It Works

Online surveys are one of the easiest ways to start earning money from anywhere with an internet connection. Companies pay for your opinions on products, ads, and services. You sign up for survey platforms, answer questions, and earn points or cash.

Earning Expectations

Most surveys pay between $0.50 and $3 each. Some longer or specialized surveys can pay more. Realistically, you can earn $10“$50 per month if youre consistent, but it wont replace a full-time job.

Time Commitment

Surveys usually take 5“20 minutes each. You can do them during breaks, while watching TV, or whenever you have spare time.

Requirements & Startup Costs

  • Internet connection and a device (computer, tablet, or smartphone)
  • Email address
  • No startup costs—never pay to join a survey site

Pros & Cons

  • Pros: No experience needed, flexible, works anywhere, no cost
  • Cons: Low pay, some sites have minimum payout thresholds, need to avoid scams

Beginner Tips

  • Sign up for multiple reputable sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and Pinecone Research to get more opportunities.
  • Watch out for scams—never pay to join or give sensitive info.
  • Set up a separate email for surveys to keep your inbox organized.

Real-World Example

Sarah, a stay-at-home mom in rural Kansas, spends 15 minutes a day on surveys while her kids nap. She cashes out $25“$30 a month in gift cards, which she uses for groceries and treats.

Freelance Microtasks

How It Works

Microtask platforms let you earn by completing small online jobs, like data entry, image tagging, or transcribing audio. Tasks are usually quick and require little to no experience.

Earning Expectations

Most microtasks pay $0.01 to $1 each. With practice and speed, you can earn $20“$100 a month or more, depending on the platform and your availability.

Time Commitment

You can work as much or as little as you want. Tasks often take just a few minutes each.

Requirements & Startup Costs

  • Reliable internet and a computer or smartphone
  • Some platforms may require a basic skills test
  • No fees to join reputable sites

Pros & Cons

  • Pros: Flexible, no experience needed, works anywhere
  • Cons: Low pay per task, some platforms have limited work

Beginner Tips

  • Try sites like Amazon Mechanical Turk, Clickworker, and Appen.
  • Start with simple tasks to build up your speed and reputation.
  • Cash out earnings regularly—some sites have minimums.

Real-World Example

Mike, a college student in a small Wyoming town, spends an hour a few evenings a week on Clickworker. He earns about $40 a month, which helps pay for textbooks.

Remote Customer Service & Virtual Assistance

How It Works

Many companies hire remote workers to handle customer service calls, emails, or chat support. Virtual assistants (VAs) help businesses with tasks like scheduling, email management, or social media.

Earning Expectations

Entry-level remote customer service jobs typically pay $10“$16 per hour. Virtual assistant rates start around $10“$20 per hour, depending on your skills.

Time Commitment

Most positions require set shifts, but some offer flexible hours. Expect to commit at least 10“20 hours per week for steady income.

Requirements & Startup Costs

  • Reliable internet and a quiet workspace
  • Good communication skills
  • Some companies require a headset or background check
  • No fees to apply for legitimate jobs

Pros & Cons

  • Pros: Higher earning potential, consistent work, can lead to long-term employment
  • Cons: May require set hours, need a quiet environment, can be competitive

Beginner Tips

  • Check sites like Remote.co, FlexJobs, and Upwork for listings.
  • Tailor your resume to highlight communication and organization skills.
  • Never pay for job listings—use reputable sources.

Real-World Example

Linda, living on a farm in Nebraska, works 15 hours a week as a remote customer support rep for an online retailer, earning $12/hour. She schedules her shifts around farm chores.

Selling Handmade or Secondhand Items Online

How It Works

If youre crafty or have unused items, you can sell them on platforms like Etsy, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Poshmark. This gig works well in rural areas because you can ship items from anywhere.

Earning Expectations

Earnings vary widely. Some sellers make $50“$200 a month as a side hustle, while others build it into a full business. It depends on what you sell and how much time you invest.

Time Commitment

Listing items takes 5“15 minutes each. Packing and shipping takes additional time when you make a sale.

Requirements & Startup Costs

  • Internet access and a smartphone or camera for photos
  • Shipping supplies (boxes, tape, labels)
  • Some platforms charge small listing or selling fees

Pros & Cons

  • Pros: Flexible, scalable, works from anywhere, potential for higher earnings
  • Cons: Requires effort to list and ship, sales can be inconsistent, small fees

Beginner Tips

  • Start with items you already own to minimize costs.
  • Take clear, well-lit photos and write honest descriptions.
  • Check shipping options—USPS offers free pickup in many rural areas.

Real-World Example

Jake, a retired teacher in rural Maine, sells vintage books and handmade birdhouses on eBay and Etsy. He earns $100“$200 monthly and enjoys connecting with buyers nationwide.

Local Gigs: Babysitting, Pet Sitting, and Odd Jobs

How It Works

Even in rural areas, neighbors need help with babysitting, pet care, yard work, or basic home repairs. You can find these gigs through word-of-mouth, local Facebook groups, or community boards.

Earning Expectations

Rates vary by location and task, but babysitting and pet sitting often pay $10“$20 per hour. Odd jobs can pay more for specialized skills.

Time Commitment

Flexible—take on jobs as your schedule allows. Some gigs are one-time, while others may be ongoing.

Requirements & Startup Costs

  • Reliable transportation (for traveling locally)
  • References or basic skills for certain tasks
  • Usually no startup costs

Pros & Cons

  • Pros: Flexible, builds community connections, can pay well
  • Cons: May require travel, work can be seasonal or inconsistent

Beginner Tips

  • Let friends and neighbors know youre available for work.
  • Join local Facebook groups or use flyers at community centers.
  • Be clear about your rates and availability.

Real-World Example

Emily, a high school student in a small Iowa town, babysits for local families and mows lawns in the summer. She earns enough to save for college and help with family expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are these gig jobs legitimate?
    Yes, the jobs listed here are legitimate, but always use reputable platforms and never pay upfront fees to join.
  • Can I do these gigs with slow internet?
    Many gigs, like surveys and microtasks, dont require fast internet. For customer service or virtual assistant work, a stable connection is important.
  • How do I avoid scams?
    Stick to well-known platforms, read reviews, and never share sensitive personal information or pay to apply for jobs.
  • How quickly can I start earning?
    You can start earning with surveys and microtasks the same day you sign up. Remote jobs and selling online may take longer to set up.
  • Whats the best gig job for beginners?
    Online surveys and microtasks are the easiest for complete beginners. As you gain experience, try remote customer service or selling online.

Summary & Next Steps

Even if you live in a rural area where delivery apps dont exist, there are still plenty of flexible gig jobs you can do from home or online. From surveys and microtasks to remote work and selling online, you can find something that fits your lifestyle and skills.

Ready to explore more ways to earn? Check out other guides and reviews on Survey Soda to find the perfect side hustle for your situation. Every small step can add up to big results over time—start today!