Rentah – How College Students Can Turn Skills Into Cash

September 15, 2025

The Side Hustle You Didn’t Know You Already Had

College is expensive. Tuition averaging $38,270 annually, climbing rent, and everyday expenses mean nearly 70% of recent graduates pick up side hustles just to make ends meet. Only 27% have a full-time job in their field, while 23% haven’t found any job at all. Is Rentah a good solution?

Consider options like driving for Uber or delivering food. But you could also monetize skills and items you already have through Rentah.

That camera from your photography class? Tutoring skills? Graphic design talent? These are income streams waiting to happen.

Why Rentah Is Perfect for College Students

43% of college students globally make 25-50% of their monthly income through side hustles. Popular avenues include freelance work (30%) and selling goods online (40%). But you don’t need to start a freelance business or Etsy shop; just list what you have and know on Rentah.

Here’s why it works:

  • Zero startup costs – No need to buy inventory.
  • Flexible scheduling – Work around classes.
  • Build your portfolio – Every gig is resume material.
  • Local connections – Networking is key.
  • Skills development – Get paid while learning.

85% of people with side hustles are happier with their jobs. When you earn money doing what you’re good at, it doesn’t feel like work.

What College Students Are Listing on Rentah

Here’s what your peers are making money from:

Your Talent (Not Just Your Stuff!)

Photography Services – Average pay: $20/hour

  • Headshots for LinkedIn: $50-100/session
  • Event photography: $100-200
  • Product photography: $75-150
  • Social media content creation: $40-80/hour

Tutoring – Average pay: $35-75/hour

  • Math and science tutoring
  • Language tutoring
  • Test prep
  • Video game coaching

Graphic Design & Creative Work – Average pay: $25-50/hour

  • Social media graphics
  • Event flyers
  • Logo design
  • Resume design

Music Lessons – Average pay: $40-60/hour

  • Lessons for instruments
  • Music theory tutoring
  • Recording services

Fitness & Wellness – Average pay: $30-70/hour

  • Personal training
  • Group classes
  • Wellness coaching

Your Stuff (Gathering Dust in Your Dorm)

Tech & Equipment

  • Camera gear: $50-150/weekend
  • Laptops/tablets: $30-60/day
  • Audio equipment: $25-40/day

Sports & Recreation

  • Bikes: $15-30/day
  • Camping gear: $50-100/weekend

Event Supplies

  • Folding tables/chairs: $5-10/item/event

Tools & Equipment

  • Power drills: $15-25/day

How to Actually Make Money (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Take Inventory (10 Minutes)

List:

  • Skills
  • Stuff you own
  • Services you could offer

Step 2: Research Going Rates (10 Minutes)

Quick Google search for average rates for your skills/items in your city.

Step 3: Create Killer Listings (30 Minutes)

For services:

  • Use clear titles
  • Include specific skills
  • State your availability

For items:

  • Quality photos
  • Honest item descriptions

Step 4: Set Your Rates Smart

Calculate a competitive price based on traditional costs.

Step 5: Build Your Rep

The first few transactions are crucial for establishing trust and gaining positive reviews.

Real College Students Making Real Money

Jake, Sophomore at NYU: “Listed my camera gear on weekends; made $400 last month.”
Maya, Junior at UT Austin: “Started at $40 for resume design, now booked at $75.”
Alex, Senior at University of Washington: “Listed stats tutoring at $50/hour; that’s $1,600/month.”

These aren't unicorns—just students leveraging their skills.

The Portfolio-Building Secret

Every Rentah gig is portfolio material relevant to real careers, teaching skills in pricing strategy, customer service, and marketing.

Common Student Concerns (Answered)

Don’t have time? You can earn money in just a few hours a week.
Not an expert? You just need to know more than the person paying you.
Worried about bookings? Adjust your rates or improve your listings.
Considering taxes? Track your earnings; file if you make over $600.

Your First Week Game Plan

Monday: Sign up for Rentah and create your profile. Tuesday-Wednesday: Share your profile and inform friends about your services. Thursday-Sunday: Respond to inquiries within 2 hours and complete your first transaction.
Week 2: Expand your listings and respond to reviews.

Bottom Line: Just Start

You’re already juggling a lot, but the average side hustler earns $891/month—half that is impactful for students. Start monetizing your skills today!

Your future self will thank you.