Data entry work is a flexible way to earn money by inputting, organizing, or managing data without stepping outside your home. It’s a booming opportunity in today’s gig economy, driven by businesses needing help with administrative tasks and data management.
Since business companies increasingly seek flexible, remote solutions for data entry or similar tasks, the demand for skilled data entry professionals has grown significantly.
For anyone with a computer, internet connection, and keen attention to detail, this hustle provides a low-barrier entry point into the world of freelance data entry jobs.
In this guide, we will explore the types of data entry jobs available, potential earnings, the best platforms to find work, and actionable steps to help you get started in data entry services.
Types of Data Entry Jobs for Side Hustlers
Basic Data Input Jobs
Entering data into spreadsheets, databases, or software systems is an ideal task for beginners with minimal experience or software knowledge in the data entry field.
You will need to be attentive since your data entry tasks will include inputting names, addresses, sales figures, updating contact lists, or digitizing handwritten notes. That is one of the most basic data entry jobs that could catapult you into a stable career as a data entry specialist.
Transcription Data Entry
Transcription is one of those data entry jobs that require good listening and understanding rather than pure typing skills. You would have to listen to audio or video recordings and convert the exact words that you hear into written text. This type of data entry will include transcribing meeting notes, interviews, or captions for videos.
Accuracy and typing speed are essential for success in this data entry niche. Such data entry work is often indispensable for businesses, podcasts, or academic institutions.
Medical and Legal Data Entry
Specialized fields like healthcare and law require data entry specialists to manage sensitive information such as patient records or legal documents. These data entry jobs can’t be done without the knowledge of a specific terminology but will result in higher pay.
Even if you don’t have a relevant background, getting some pieces of training can grant you a chance to land a data entry clerk position in this field.
Survey Form Filling
Companies and researchers often need help from data entry professionals to transfer survey responses into digital formats. This data entry work typically involves repetitive tasks, and companies tend to outsource such data entry assignments.
These data entry tasks can be completed in short sessions, making it ideal for remote work and a steady source of income for a data entry enthusiast.
Online Data Research
In this data entry role, you will gather specific information from online resources and organize it into usable formats, such as spreadsheets or reports.
You will have to gather product details for e-commerce websites or compile market research reports. Strong data entry and research skills are an asset in this area of data entry work. It’s a perfect match for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy research.
How Much Can You Earn?
Income Ranges by Job Type
Earnings can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the data entry task. Here’s an estimate of average hourly pay for data entry jobs:
- Basic Data Input Jobs: $8–$15/hour
- Transcription Work: $10–$25/hour
- Medical and Legal Data Entry: $15–$30/hour
- Survey Form Filling: $5–$10/hour
- Online Data Research: $10–$20/hour
Factors That Influence Pay
Earnings for data entry specialists will always depend on typing skills, experience, and the level of expertise in particular data entry services or tools that you use along the way.
Another factor is the complexity of the data entry work that you are applying for. Specialized data entry jobs typically pay more, while entry-level roles offer less rewarding data entry jobs but are easier to secure for less experienced data entry side hustlers.
Comparison: Full-Time vs. Side Hustle Earnings
Full-time data entry work typically provides a stable income with benefits ranging from $30,000 to $45,000 annually.
On the other hand, those who engage in data entry as a side hustle can enjoy the flexibility of setting their hours and scaling up their data entry workload based on availability. A part-time commitment to data entry work can still yield $200-$800 per month.
Best Platforms for Data Entry Side Hustle Jobs
1. Fiverr
Known for its gig-based model, Fiverr lets freelancers looking for data entry jobs showcase their data entry skills and set custom rates. It’s a beginner-friendly platform that offers flexibility for someone new to data entry services who wants to establish themselves as a data entry specialist.
2. Upwork
This platform connects freelancers with clients worldwide. It’s competitive but great for building long-term client relationships for data entry specialists. Upwork offers robust tools to manage projects and payments, thus allowing one to focus on data entry work.
3. Freelancer
Freelancer operates similarly to Upwork, offering a range of data entry jobs for those who want to work as a data entry clerk. This platform features both fixed-price and hourly projects available for remote work in the data entry field.
4. Clickworker
As a platform for microtasks like data entry, surveys, and online research, Clickworker pays per task. It’s a perfect choice for someone wanting to take their first steps in developing their data entry skills and getting more challenging data entry jobs.
5. Amazon Mechanical Turk
Often referred to as MTurk, this platform provides small, repetitive data entry tasks like categorization and transcription. The pay is low, but the data entry tasks are simple, so it’s a good starting point before getting to more serious data entry jobs.
6. FlexJobs
Known for its high-quality job postings, FlexJobs features data entry jobs from reputable companies that are often remote-friendly and legitimate for those who want a stable data entry career.
How to Start a Data Entry Side Hustle
Step 1: Assess Your Skills and Job Type
Evaluate your typing speed, ability to work with tools like Excel, and whether you’re suited for data entry beginner roles or more specialized data entry jobs.
Getting involved in a data entry project where you will not manage to hold your end can be detrimental to your motivation and reputation, which can stop you from becoming marketable for data entry jobs.
Step 2: Set Up Your Workspace
A quiet space with a reliable computer and a stable internet connection will help minimize distractions and boost productivity to conduct data entry. In fast-paced data entry work, you will not keep up with your data entry projects if you do not have comfortable working conditions.
Step 3: Create Accounts on Job Platforms
Sign up on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Clickworker. Without your presence on such platforms, you will not get any opportunities for data entry jobs.
Build a strong profile that would display your data entry skills and experience to attract potential clients, especially those who can offer longer-lasting data entry work.
Step 4: Apply for Entry-Level Jobs
Start with beginner-friendly data entry tasks to build experience and receive positive reviews for your data entry work. Once a reputable profile is established, you will have an opportunity to snatch a more promising role as a data entry clerk.
Step 5: Avoid Scams
Beware of data entry work offers requiring upfront payments or personal financial information. Stick to trusted websites with data entry jobs displayed, don’t forget to research employers before providing data entry services for them, and use secure payment methods.
Step 6: Optimize Your Schedule and Task Management
Use productivity tools like Trello or Asana to stay organized, track deadlines, and manage multiple data entry projects efficiently without feeling overwhelmed in your data entry work.
Having all data entry tasks sorted out and prioritized will make you an efficient data entry specialist desired by multiple clients.
Tips for Maximizing Earnings in Data Entry
Choosing Higher-Paying Jobs
Specialized data entry roles like medical data entry or transcription typically pay more. Consider upskilling to access these data entry opportunities.
Upskilling with Basic Software Knowledge
Learning tools like Excel, Google Sheets, or transcription software can make you a more competitive data entry professional who can offer a wider variety of data entry services.
Managing Multiple Clients and Staying Organized
Maintain clear communication with clients and use project management tools or spreadsheets to juggle multiple data entry assignments and ensure timely delivery to get more data entry jobs and be excellent at doing them.
