18 Best Mobile Apps To Make Money in 2025

In today’s world, making some extra cash from your phone is easier than ever. With so many mobile apps to earn money, you can find the perfect fit for your skills and interests.

Whether you’re into taking surveys, completing tasks, or even freelancing, there’s something for everyone.

This article covers 18 of the best money-making apps in 2025 that can help you boost your income right from your pocket.

Key Takeaways

• You can earn money by taking surveys and participating in market research.
• Cashback apps can help you save while you shop.
• Freelancing platforms allow you to offer your skills and services.
• Some apps pay you for completing simple tasks or gigs.
• Investing apps can help you grow your money over time.
• Selling photos or products online can generate extra income.
• Many apps offer rewards for regular usage and referrals.
• Always check the app’s reviews and payout options before starting.

Measure

Let’s kick things off with an app called Measure. I’ve been trying it out recently, and it’s actually pretty interesting. Basically, you get paid to share data about your phone usage.

It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s a pretty passive way to earn a little extra cash. I’ve found it pretty straightforward to use, and the privacy aspects seem solid, which is always a plus.

Here’s the deal:

• You download the app.
• You let it run in the background.
• You get paid for the data it collects.

Honestly, I was a bit skeptical at first, but after doing some digging, it seems legit. They anonymize the data, so it’s not like they’re selling your personal info directly.

Still, it’s worth reading the fine print to make sure you’re comfortable with what they’re collecting.

I think the biggest thing to keep in mind is that the payout isn’t huge. We’re talking about a few bucks a month, maybe enough for a coffee or two.

But if you’re already spending a ton of time on your phone, you might as well get something back for it. Plus, it’s kind of cool to see how you actually use your phone.

If you want to improve your mobile app success, you need to understand how people use their phones.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Swagbucks

Swagbucks has been around for a while, and honestly, it’s still a solid choice if you’re looking to make a little extra cash.

Basically, you earn points (they call them SB) for doing all sorts of stuff online.

I’m talking surveys, watching videos, playing games, even just surfing the web. It’s not gonna make you rich, but it’s easy money, you know?

I like that there are so many different ways to earn. If I’m bored waiting for the bus, I can knock out a quick survey. Or if I’m just vegging out on the couch, I can put on some videos and passively earn SB.

It adds up over time. Plus, they often have these little bonus things, like daily goals or special offers, that give you a little extra boost.

I’ve been using Swagbucks off and on for years, and while the payouts aren’t huge, it’s consistent. I usually cash out for Amazon gift cards, which is perfect for buying stuff I was gonna buy anyway.

It’s like getting a discount on everything!

Here’s a quick rundown of how it works:

• Sign up for a free account (takes like a minute).
• Start earning SB by completing tasks.
• Redeem your SB for gift cards or PayPal cash.
• Keep an eye out for bonus offers to maximize your earnings.

I think Swagbucks is a great option if you’re just looking for a simple, no-brainer way to make a bit of extra money in your spare time. Just don’t expect to quit your day job!

Ibotta

Ibotta is pretty cool if you’re into getting cash back on stuff you buy in stores. I think it’s one of the better apps for that.

It’s partnered with a ton of brands, like over 1,500 of them, so you can save money at lots of different places. I like that there are a few ways to get your cash back.

You can link your store loyalty account, scan your receipts, or even buy gift cards through the app. Usually, the cash back shows up in your account pretty quickly, like within a day.

It’s a straightforward way to save a bit of money on things I’m already buying.

One thing to keep in mind is that you need at least $20 in your account before you can cash out. Some other apps let you withdraw smaller amounts, like $5.

I’ve found that using Ibotta regularly can add up to some decent savings over time. It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s a nice little bonus for everyday shopping.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Lots of partner brands
• Multiple ways to earn cash back
• Cash back usually appears within 24 hours

I think Ibotta is a solid choice if you’re looking for a mobile video editor to save some money on your groceries and other shopping trips.

Rakuten

Rakuten is a super easy way to earn cash back just by shopping through their app or website. I’ve used it for a while, and it’s a great way to save money on everyday purchases without any extra effort. 

I mean, who doesn’t love getting paid to shop, right?

Rakuten is a solid choice if you’re already doing a lot of online shopping.

Here’s how it usually goes for me:

• I open the app before I shop online.
• I find the store I want to buy from in the app.
• I click through to the store from Rakuten, and shop as usual.
• The cash back gets automatically added to my Rakuten account.

They pay out every three months via check or PayPal. The latest version of the Rakuten app is pretty easy to use, and I haven’t had any issues with it so far.

One thing to keep in mind is that you need a minimum of $5 to cash out. Also, for in-store purchases, you have to link a credit card to your account and use that card to pay.

It’s not a huge deal, but it’s something to be aware of.

Survey Junkie

Survey Junkie is one of the more well-known paid survey apps, and it’s been around for a while. It’s super straightforward—you sign up, take surveys, and earn points you can cash out for real money!

I signed up a few months back, and it’s been a decent way to make a few extra bucks while I’m watching TV or waiting for the bus. It’s not going to make you rich, but hey, every little bit helps, right?

Survey Junkie is a platform where you get paid for sharing your opinion. Basically, companies need market research, and they pay Survey Junkie to get it.

Then, Survey Junkie pays me (and you, if you sign up) to take the surveys. It’s a pretty simple system. They’ve been around since 2013, so they’re not some fly-by-night operation.

You can learn more on their website.

Here’s what I’ve found:

• Lots of Surveys: There always seems to be surveys available, which is a big plus. Some sites have you waiting around forever for something to pop up.
• Easy to Cash Out: You only need 500 points (which is $5) to cash out, and you can do it through PayPal or gift cards. I usually go for the PayPal option.
• SJ Opinion and SJ Pulse: When you sign up, you can choose to participate in SJ Opinion (the regular surveys) or SJ Pulse, which tracks your browsing behavior. I just stick with the surveys myself.

One thing to keep in mind is that you won’t qualify for every survey. Sometimes they’re looking for a specific demographic, and you just don’t fit. It can be a little frustrating, but it’s part of the deal.

Also, don’t expect to make a ton of money. It’s more like beer money than rent money. I saw somewhere that people make around $3 an hour doing surveys on there.

Honestly, that sounds about right. Some surveys disqualify you, which wastes time. Focus groups might pay more, but those are harder to come by.

InboxDollars

Okay, so InboxDollars is another one of those apps where you can get paid to do a bunch of different things. I’ve been messing around with it for a bit, and it’s pretty straightforward.

You can earn money by taking surveys, watching videos, reading emails, and even playing games. It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s a decent way to make a little extra cash in your spare time.

One thing I noticed is that the payouts can vary quite a bit. Some surveys pay pennies, while others might give you a few dollars. It really depends on the length and topic of the survey.

The videos are usually short, but the payout is also pretty small. Still, if you’re just looking for something to do while you’re waiting in line or watching TV, it’s not a bad option.

Just don’t expect to quit your day job anytime soon. Customer reviews indicate that earning real money through free games is challenging.

Here’s a quick rundown of what I’ve found:

• Surveys: Decent way to earn, but can be time-consuming.
• Videos: Easy, but low payout.
• Emails: Super easy, just click to confirm you read them.
• Games: Fun, but don’t expect to win big.

I think InboxDollars is best for people who are just looking for a simple way to make a little extra money without a lot of effort.

It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but it’s a legitimate way to earn some cash for doing things you might already be doing online.

TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is a popular gig app that pays you to do all kinds of local tasks. It’s basically a digital bulletin board where people post odd jobs, and you get paid to help out.

People post tasks they need help with, and you, the Tasker, can bid on them. I’ve been checking it out, and it seems pretty straightforward. You sign up, create a profile, and list your skills.

Then, you can browse available tasks in your area and make offers. It could be anything from assembling furniture to running errands or even helping someone move.

From what I’ve gathered, here’s the gist:

• Flexibility: You set your own hours and choose the tasks you want to do.
• Variety: There’s a wide range of tasks available, so you can find something that matches your skills and interests.
• Income Potential: How much you make depends on the tasks you take and how much you charge. Some people make a decent side income, while others do it full-time.

It’s worth noting that to become a Tasker, you’ll need to download their app, create an account, and verify your identity. This usually involves providing an ID and a photo.

Also, keep in mind that TaskRabbit takes a cut of your earnings, so factor that into your pricing. I’m thinking of giving it a shot myself.

I’m pretty good at assembling IKEA furniture, so maybe I can make a few extra bucks doing that. Plus, it’s a good way to stay active and meet new people. Who knows, maybe I’ll become a TaskRabbit superstar!

Fiverr

Fiverr is a digital marketplace, and I think it’s pretty cool. It’s where freelancers connect with people who need stuff done, like graphic design or writing.

It’s all about affordable and efficient solutions, which is great for businesses and individuals. To get started, you make a seller profile and create what they call a “Gig.”

This is your chance to show off your skills and tell potential buyers everything they need to know. Think of it as your personal ad for your talents.

Now, let’s talk money. The average Fiverr user makes around $103 a month, but the median income is closer to $60. It’s not a fortune, but it can be a nice side hustle.

I’ve heard stories of people making way more than that, though. It really depends on what you offer and how good you are at marketing yourself.

If you’re willing to put in the work, Fiverr could be a decent source of income!

Upwork

Upwork is a massive freelance job platform where businesses hire people for everything from writing and design to coding and marketing. I’ve used it on and off, and it’s a solid way to find remote gigs!

Think writing, web design, virtual assistant stuff – you name it, someone’s probably offering it on Upwork. It’s a pretty solid platform if you know how to use it right.

First off, setting up your profile is key. You really need to showcase your skills and experience. Don’t just throw something together; put some effort into it. Think of it as your online resume.

Also, be prepared to bid on a lot of projects before you land one. It can be competitive, especially when you’re starting out. One thing I’ve learned is that communication is super important.

Respond quickly to messages, be clear about your rates and deadlines, and always be professional. It makes a huge difference in getting repeat business and good reviews.

And speaking of reviews, those are gold. The better your reviews, the more likely you are to get hired. Upwork does take a cut of your earnings, which can be a bummer.

But honestly, it’s worth it for the access to clients and the security of the platform. They handle payments and disputes, which is a huge plus.

Plus, there are many ways to withdraw USD outside the US, like Wise, PayPal, Payoneer, and M-Pesa.

Overall, I’d say Upwork is a decent option if you’re looking to make money freelancing. It takes some effort to get started, but once you build up a good reputation, it can be a pretty reliable source of income.

Just remember to be patient, professional, and persistent, and you should be able to find some success on the platform.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Pros: Huge client base, secure payments, wide range of job opportunities.
• Cons: Can be competitive, Upwork takes a percentage of your earnings, initial profile setup can be time-consuming.
• Tips: Create a killer profile, bid strategically, communicate effectively, and build up your reviews.

JustAnswer

Okay, so JustAnswer is a bit different. It’s not about taking surveys or watching ads. It’s for people who actually have some kind of expertise – like doctors, lawyers, mechanics, or tech experts.

Basically, if you know a lot about something, you can get paid to answer people’s questions. I think the cool thing about JustAnswer is that it lets you use your brain to make money.

People post questions, and if you’re qualified, you can answer them. The pay varies, but I’ve heard some experts can make a decent amount each month.

It really depends on how much time you put in and what kind of expertise you have. It’s available in many countries, so it’s worth checking out if you’re looking to find mobile apps that match your skills.

It’s a good way to make some extra cash if you have specialized knowledge. Just be prepared to prove your credentials and provide accurate, helpful answers. The better you are, the more you can potentially earn.

Acorns

Acorns is a smart micro-investing app that helps you grow your money by automatically investing your spare change.

I’ve been meaning to dive into it for a while—it’s perfect if you want to start investing without needing a big budget. Basically, it rounds up your purchases and invests the spare change.

It’s like saving without even thinking about it, which is pretty cool. I like the idea of setting it and forgetting it. It’s not going to make me rich overnight, but it’s a start, right?

Here’s what I’ve gathered about it:

• Round-Ups: This is the core feature. Every time you buy something, Acorns rounds up to the nearest dollar and invests the difference.
• Recurring Investments: You can also set up regular, small investments. Even $5 a week can add up over time.

• Diversified Portfolio: Acorns invests your money in a mix of stocks and bonds, based on your risk tolerance. They make it easy to get started with Acorns Invest, even if you don’t know much about investing.

I’m thinking of giving it a shot. It seems like a low-effort way to start building up some savings for the future. Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of turning spare change into something more?

Honeygain

Honeygain is a unique passive income app that pays you for sharing your internet connection. It might sound a little odd at first, but it’s a legit way to earn money without doing much of anything.

I’ve been using it for a bit, and it’s pretty much passive income. You install the app, let it run in the background, and it uses a portion of your bandwidth. The more you share, the more you earn.

It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s a nice little boost to your monthly income. Plus, it’s a great way to earn some passive income without doing much at all.

Here’s the deal:

• How it works: You share your unused internet bandwidth.
• Earning potential: Varies based on location and network speed.
• Payment method: PayPal or crypto.

I was a bit skeptical at first, but honestly, it’s been pretty smooth. I haven’t noticed any significant slowdown in my internet speed, and the earnings, while small, are consistent.

It’s like getting paid for something I wasn’t even using anyway. Just remember to check their terms and conditions to make sure you’re comfortable with everything.

Foap

Foap is a great photo-selling app that lets you earn money by uploading pictures straight from your phone. I’ve used it a bit, and it’s super simple—just upload your shots and get paid when someone buys them.

It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but it’s a cool way to make some extra money from your photography hobby.

The key is to upload high-quality, unique photos that stand out. Think about what brands might be looking for – authentic, real-life images often do well.

Here’s what I’ve found works best:

• High-Quality Images: Make sure your photos are sharp, well-lit, and visually appealing.
• Unique Content: Try to capture moments or subjects that aren’t already saturated on stock photo sites.
• Tagging: Use relevant tags to help buyers find your photos easily.

I’ve seen some people make a decent amount, while others barely make anything. It really depends on the quality of your photos and how well they meet the needs of potential buyers.

Plus, it’s a numbers game – the more photos you upload, the better your chances of selling. You can also participate in missions, which are basically contests where brands are looking for specific types of images.

If you win, you get a cash prize. It’s worth checking out if you’re into photography and want to sell user-generated content.

UserTesting

UserTesting is a legit way to make money by testing websites and apps and sharing your feedback. I’ve tried it a few times. They pay you for your honest opinions while you explore different platforms.

Sounds easy, right? Well, it can be, but there are definitely some things to keep in mind.

First off, you’ve gotta be quick to snag a test. They pop up, and if you hesitate for even a second, someone else will grab it. I’ve missed out on tons of opportunities just because I wasn’t fast enough.

Also, you need to be articulate. They want detailed feedback, not just “Yeah, it looks good.” Think out loud, explain what you’re doing, and be honest about any issues you run into.

One thing that can be a bit frustrating is the screening process. You have to answer a few questions to see if you’re a good fit for the test, and sometimes you get disqualified even after spending a few minutes on it.

It’s a bit of a bummer, but it’s part of the game. I’ve found that being as specific as possible in my answers helps increase my chances of getting selected.

Honestly, the pay isn’t amazing, but it’s a decent way to make a little extra cash in your spare time. Plus, it’s kind of interesting to see new products and websites before they’re released to the public.

Now, I’ve read some UserTesting reviews that mention issues with test quality. Apparently, some testers rush through, which can skew the results.

I can see how that would be a problem, so I always try to give thoughtful and thorough feedback. It’s not just about the money; it’s about helping companies create better products.

Here are some tips I’ve found helpful:

• Be detailed in your responses. Don’t just say something is good or bad; explain why.
• Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. This makes it easier for the people reviewing your test to understand you.
• Be honest. If you’re confused by something, say so. Your honest feedback is what they’re paying for.

I think UserTesting is a solid option if you’re looking for a flexible way to earn a bit of extra money. Just don’t expect to get rich doing it!

Field Agent

Field Agent is a fun way to earn money by completing small tasks or acting as a secret shopper. I’ve used it on and off, and it’s really easy to pick up jobs nearby and get paid quickly.

Basically, businesses need people to check on things – like product placement, pricing, or even just the cleanliness of a store.

That’s where we come in. I download the app, browse available “jobs” in my area, and if something looks interesting, I accept it.

These jobs usually involve going to a specific store, answering some questions, taking a few photos, and submitting everything through the app.

The pay varies depending on the complexity of the task, but it’s usually a few bucks per job.

It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s a decent way to earn some extra cash while you’re already out  and about. Plus, it can be kind of fun to see what different stores are up to.

I’ve definitely discovered some new products and places I wouldn’t have otherwise. One thing I’ve noticed is that the jobs can disappear quickly!

You have to be ready to jump on them when you see something you like. Also, make sure you read the instructions carefully, because they can be pretty specific about what they want.

I’ve found that the key to success with Field Agent is to be quick, thorough, and pay attention to detail. If you can do that, it’s a pretty easy way to make a little extra money.

However, some users express frustration with the Field Agent app, noting that it often indicates jobs are already taken, limiting their ability to participate.

Gigwalk

Gigwalk lets you earn money by completing quick tasks called “Gigs” in your local area. It’s kind of like secret shopping!

I’ve seen gigs like checking if a product is displayed correctly in a store, taking photos of a menu, or verifying promotional material.

It’s pretty straightforward, and honestly, kind of fun if you’re bored and want to make a few extra bucks. The best part is that the tasks are usually quick and easy.

Here’s the deal:

• You download the app and create an account.
• You browse the map for available gigs near you.
• You apply for the gigs that interest you.
• If you’re selected, you complete the task and submit your work through the app.
• You get paid! (Usually via PayPal).

I’ve found that the pay varies quite a bit depending on the gig. Some might only be a few dollars, while others can be $20 or more.

It really depends on the complexity and time commitment involved. The key is to check the details carefully before you apply, so you know what you’re getting into.

Sweatcoin

Sweatcoin is a bit different from other money-making apps it rewards you with digital coins just for walking. It’s not exactly cash, but you can trade your steps for discounts, products, or even gift cards!

Basically, you get paid to walk. The app tracks your steps, and then it converts those steps into Sweatcoins. So it’s a fun way to get rewarded for staying active.

I’ve been using it for a few months, and it’s kind of cool to see how much I’m “earning” just by doing my normal routine.

What can you do with Sweatcoins? Well, you can redeem them for stuff in their marketplace. I’ve seen everything from discounts on fitness gear to subscriptions to wellness apps.

I even saw someone redeem theirs for a fancy new pair of headphones once. It’s not going to make you rich, but it’s a fun way to get a little something extra for staying active.

I think of it as a little nudge to get me moving. It’s not a huge incentive, but it’s enough to make me think twice about taking the elevator instead of the stairs.

Plus, it’s kind of fun to see how many Sweatcoins I can rack up in a week.

Cash App

Cash App isn’t a money-making app in the traditional sense, so isn’t exactly a way to make money in the same way as some of these other apps, but hear me out.

It’s more of a tool that can seriously streamline how I manage my money, and that indirectly helps me keep more of it. I use it all the time to split bills with friends, sell stuff locally, or even just send quick payments.

The convenience is a huge time-saver, and time is money, right?

Plus, they sometimes have these “boosts” that give you discounts at certain stores, which is basically free money if you were planning on shopping there anyway.

I’ve found that using Cash App for all my small transactions helps me keep a better eye on where my money is going.

It’s way easier than trying to track everything in a spreadsheet, and those little savings here and there really add up over time.

Here’s a quick rundown of why I find it so useful:

• Easy peer-to-peer payments
• Optional debit card with boosts
• Direct deposit for paychecks
• Investing in stocks and Bitcoin (though I’m always careful with this!)

Basically, Cash App is my go-to for anything money-related that isn’t a major bill. It’s not going to make me rich, but it definitely makes my financial life a little bit easier, and that’s worth something.

Wrapping It Up

So there you have it, a rundown of the top mobile apps to help you make some extra cash in 2025!

While none of these apps are going to make you rich overnight, they can definitely help you earn a little something on the side.

Just remember to keep your expectations in check and pick the ones that fit your lifestyle and interests. With the right approach, you can turn your spare time into some extra income.

Now, go ahead and explore these options and see which ones work best for you!