Milwaukee is a city with a deep-rooted automotive culture, making it an ideal place for car enthusiasts looking to turn their passion into a profitable side hustle. From car shows at the Wisconsin State Fair Park to local racing events at the Milwaukee Mile, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get involved in the car scene. Whether you love classic cars, performance vehicles, or simply enjoy being behind the wheel, Milwaukee offers a variety of flexible ways to earn extra income while indulging in your automotive interests.
If you’re looking for a way to make money with cars in Milwaukee, here are some of the best side hustles that cater to different skill levels and interests.
1. Rent Out Your Car on Turo
If you have a reliable car, you can rent it out on platforms like Turo to make passive income. Manual transmission vehicles, classic cars, and performance models tend to attract higher rental rates. Milwaukee’s steady stream of visitors and business travelers creates a strong demand for rental cars, making this a great opportunity to earn extra cash.
2. Teach Manual Driving at Manual Driving Academy
If you own a stick-shift vehicle and enjoy teaching, becoming an instructor at Manual Driving Academy is a flexible and rewarding way to earn money. Instructors set their own schedules and help students learn a valuable skill, making this an excellent side gig for anyone who enjoys driving and mentoring others. You can apply to become an instructor here: Manual Driving Academy.
3. Work at Local Car Shows and Auto Events
Milwaukee hosts numerous car shows and events throughout the year, such as the Greater Milwaukee Auto Show and weekly car meets. Event organizers often need extra hands for setup, ticket sales, and logistics. Websites like Eventbrite and local Facebook groups frequently list job opportunities for auto enthusiasts looking to earn extra income at these events.

4. Buy and Sell Car Parts
Flipping car parts can be a lucrative business, especially if you have knowledge of in-demand components like performance upgrades, wheels, or rare vintage parts. Many Milwaukee residents restore classic cars, creating a local market for quality used parts. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist are great places to sell automotive parts.
5. Offer Rideshare or Delivery Services
If you enjoy driving, consider working for ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft, or delivering food and packages with DoorDash or Amazon Flex. Milwaukee’s busy nightlife, college campuses, and airport travelers create plenty of demand for rideshare drivers. Plus, you can work on your own schedule, making it a great flexible side hustle.
6. Start an Automotive YouTube Channel or Blog
If you have expertise in car repairs, reviews, or detailing, consider starting a YouTube channel or blog to share your knowledge. Monetizing through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing can turn your passion into passive income. Milwaukee’s diverse automotive scene offers plenty of content opportunities, from showcasing local car meets to reviewing Midwest-friendly car mods.
Conclusion
Milwaukee offers plenty of opportunities for car enthusiasts to turn their passion into extra income. Whether you prefer hands-on gigs like working at car shows, passive income streams like renting out your vehicle, or teaching a valuable skill through Manual Driving Academy, there’s a side hustle for everyone.
If you’re interested in a flexible, rewarding side gig, consider applying to become an instructor at Manual Driving Academy: Apply Here.