Two in five teens earn from hobbies

39% of 16 to 17-year-olds have made money from a hobby or skill in the last two years, averaging £389. Nearly 90% aspire to earn from something they enjoy.

“39% of the 1000 16 to 17-year-olds they surveyed have made money from a hobby or skill in the last two years”

Reselling and babysitting lead the way

56% of teens sell unwanted belongings. Other popular methods include babysitting, charging for skills, helping family businesses, and reselling items for profit.

Traditional jobs are fading fast

Only 15% of teens have done newspaper rounds or weekend jobs, compared with 35% of adults at the same age. The shift reflects changing attitudes toward work.

Social media and gaming top wish lists

Creating social media content ranks first among entrepreneurial ideas teens want to pursue, followed by starting a business, pet care, gaming and streaming, and cooking.

Multiple income streams are the goal

80% of teens want at least two income sources, and 34% would choose entrepreneurship over a secure, well-paid job. Control over their future is the top motivation at 42%.

“80% said they would ideally like to have at least two different sources of income”

AI is already part of the hustle

35% of teenagers use AI to brainstorm business ideas, design logos, create content, and manage money. It's becoming a standard tool for young entrepreneurs.

Tax and costs create real struggles

33% of teens feel least confident about paying tax. Unexpected costs worry 30%, and 23% don't know how to fund or borrow money for a business.

“Paying tax was the area teenagers felt least confident about when it comes to running a business”

Parents can teach real money lessons

Parents should ask questions about business ideas and help teens track earnings, understand costs, and learn the difference between revenue and profit. Starting small keeps things manageable.