A new survey conducted by Superprof, the world’s largest tutoring network, reveals a powerful shift in how Americans think about work: side gigs aren’t just a backup plan—they’re a meaningful way to earn extra income, learn new skills, and tap into creative potential.
Superprof’s recent survey of U.S. adults found that nearly half (48.76%) believe digital skills will be very important for making money online in 2025. From freelancing to online investing to building e-commerce shops, Americans are embracing flexible, online work as a smart way to get ahead—and stay ahead—in a fast-changing economy.
“This data shows how entrepreneurial people have become,” said Wilfried Granier, CEO at Superprof. “They’re not just adapting—they’re creating new income streams on their own terms.”
Key Findings from Superprof’s U.S. Survey:
- The future is freelance. When asked which online income opportunities have the most potential in 2025, respondents ranked online investing (39.8%), e-commerce (38.81%), and freelancing/consulting (36.32%) as the top three.
- People are ready to work. One in three survey respondents said they’re willing to dedicate 5–10 hours a week to online work. Another 17.41% said 10–20 hours. Even among full-time workers (56.22% of the sample), interest in online side gigs is strong.
- Confidence is growing. While just under a quarter (24.38%) said they feel “very confident” about making money online, more than a third (34.83%) are “somewhat confident,” and nearly 40% are “very interested” in learning new digital skills to boost their earning potential.
- AI is reshaping online work. A full 43.28% believe AI will significantly impact online income opportunities this year. Most respondents feel either positive (39.8%) or neutral (42.79%) about the use of AI tools to monetize content, but they’re divided over whether AI will be a net job creator or not.
The top five online money-making activities that respondents reported doing personally were:
- Taking online surveys (64.68%)
- Online investing (39.8%)
- Freelancing (23.88%)
- Selling on e-commerce platforms (20.90%)
- Testing websites and apps (15.92%)
The nationwide survey of 201 American adults was conducted by SurveyMonkey in March 2025. Superprof will continue tracking online earning trends and offering platforms where people can share their skills, grow their confidence, and expand what’s possible.
To find the perfect tutor or sign up to become one, visit Superprof.com.
Established in 2013, Superprof is the largest tutoring network on the planet, with more than 27 million private tutors across 50 countries covering over 2,000 topics. More than 24 million students have engaged a tutor through Superprof across 25 languages on subjects ranging from academics and test prep to arts, health, business, and personal development. Visit superprof.com to keep learning.