Side Hustle ROI Calculator
Calculate profit after expenses, taxes, and hours invested
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Quick Scenarios
Effective Hourly Rate
$20
500 hours/year
Annual Net Profit
$10.0k
55.8% profit margin
ROI
1334%
0.8 months to break even
vs. Your Primary Job
$-9.92/hr
⚠️ Your main job pays better per hour
Your Side Hustle Details
Financial Breakdown
ROI Analysis
Total Investment
$700
Startup + Equipment
Return on Investment
1334%
First year ROI
Break-Even Point
0.8
Months to profitability
Is It Worth Your Time?
Primary Job
$30.00/hr
Your main job hourly rate
Opportunity cost: $15,000/year if you worked main job hours instead
Side Hustle
$20.08/hr
Your effective side hustle rate
⚠️ Side hustle earns $9.92/hr LESS
💡 Note: Even though the hourly rate is lower, your side hustle may still be valuable for: building skills, portfolio, future income potential, or doing what you love. Not everything is about the hourly rate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Side Hustle ROI Calculator
📚 Tax Rate Sources
Ordinary income is taxed at graduated rates from 10% to 37% based on filing status and income level.
→ Source: IRS - Federal Income Tax Rates and Brackets
• Short-term capital gains (assets held ≤1 year): Taxed at ordinary income rates (10-37%)
• Long-term capital gains (assets held >1 year): 0%, 15%, or 20% based on income
→ Source: IRS Topic 409 - Capital Gains and Losses
State income tax rates vary from 0% (no state income tax) to 13.3% (California top rate).
→ Source: Tax Foundation - State Income Tax Rates
Qualified dividends are taxed at the same preferential rates as long-term capital gains (0%, 15%, or 20%).
→ Source: IRS Topic 404 - Dividends
Note: Tax laws change frequently. These rates are current as of 2025. Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This Side Hustle ROI Calculator provides estimates for educational and informational purposes only. Actual results may vary significantly based on individual circumstances, market conditions, regulatory changes, and other factors beyond the scope of this calculator.
The calculations and projections provided are based on assumptions and historical data that may not reflect future performance.Past performance does not guarantee future results.
This tool is not financial advice, tax advice, legal advice, or investment advice. For personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult with qualified professionals including:
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for tax matters
- Licensed attorney for legal matters
- Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) for investment decisions
Data Accuracy: All data sources, statistics, and rates were verified as accurate as of October 2025. Tax rates, market conditions, and other financial data change over time. Always verify current rates and consult official sources.
No Warranties: While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Use this tool at your own risk.