From 9–5 to side hustles: Why many Kenyans have second income
By Valerian Khakayi, April 19, 2026Across Kenya, the idea of relying on a single salary is quietly fading. What was once considered stable, a 9 am to 5 pm job, is now, for many, just one part of a bigger financial plan.
As the cost of living continues to rise, more Kenyans are finding themselves needing extra income to keep up with everyday expenses. Basic needs such as rent, food, transport, and utilities have steadily become more expensive, stretching monthly budgets thinner than before.
In many households, the primary income covers essential bills but leaves little room for savings, emergencies, or personal comfort. As a result, side hustles are no longer just optional; they have become necessary.
Types of side hustles
This shift has led to a rise in small businesses and informal income streams.
Many people are turning to online selling, especially clothes, shoes, and beauty products, using platforms like Instagram and WhatsApp to reach customers. Others are venturing into food-related businesses, from selling home-cooked meals to baking and snack delivery.
These ventures often start small but provide consistent support to supplement salaries.
Service-based hustles have also grown significantly. Photography, graphic design, video editing, and social media management are now common ways to earn extra income, especially among young people with digital skills.
At the same time, ride-hailing, delivery services, and freelance gigs offer flexible options for those looking to maximise their time outside regular working hours.
Away from urban centres, side hustles often take a different form. Farming, poultry keeping, and small-scale agribusiness have become reliable alternatives, with many people investing in projects upcountry while working in towns.
These ventures provide both food security and an additional source of income.
Technology has played a major role in this transformation. With access to smartphones and mobile money services, starting and running a side hustle has become more accessible. Marketing, payments, and customer communication can all be managed digitally, allowing even small ventures to operate efficiently.
Financial pressure
Beyond financial pressure, there is also a growing mindset shift. Many Kenyans are increasingly focused on financial independence and long-term stability.
Side hustles are seen not just as a way to survive but as a path to building something sustainable, with some eventually growing into full-time businesses.
However, this lifestyle comes with its challenges. Balancing a full-time job and a side hustle can be demanding, often leaving little time for rest. Yet despite the fatigue, the drive to earn more and stay financially secure continues to push many forward.
In today’s Kenya, the 9 am to 5 pm job is no longer the full picture. It is simply the foundation, with side hustles filling the gaps in an economy where adaptability has become essential.