15 Practical Methods To Make Money From Blogging

Turning a blog into a business isn’t reserved for the top 1%. Bloggers across niches are using simple, strategic tools to generate income in ways that reward both time and passion. This list breaks down what’s working today, even for those just getting started.

Display Ads Through Ad Networks

One of the simplest ways to start making money through blogging is by using Google AdSense. Most bloggers earn through CPM or CPC, and niche sites can pull in over $10 per 1,000 views. Set the ads once and let them quietly work in the background.
More From The Penny Hoarder: The Dumbest Things We Keep Spending Too Much Money On

Affiliate Marketing Links

Affiliate marketing rewards you for driving sales—no need to sell, just recommend. Amazon Associates is an easy place to begin. High-commission niches like tech or finance can bring in $100 or more per purchase, making them ideal for targeted content.
Make money easier. Sign up for The Penny Hoarder’s newsletter today.

Sponsored Blog Posts

Once your blog hits around 10K monthly views, companies may pay you to feature their product or service. Sponsored posts can earn between $100 and $1,000 or more, and some brands also offer freebies alongside payment, especially in lifestyle or consumer niches.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 100+ Places That Will Give You Free Stuff on Your Birthday

Offering Speaking Engagements Or Guest Appearances

As your blog gains traction, opportunities to speak at events or on podcasts often follow. These gigs can pay hundreds—or even thousands—per session. Along the way, you connect with brands and turn your platform into something far bigger than just a blog.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Ditch Overpriced Car Insurance Now — Save $500 Today

Selling Digital Products

Digital products like guides, ebooks or templates are great for bloggers who want to sell without sharing profits. Once created, they cost little to maintain and can be distributed endlessly. They’re a perfect fit for all types of content, ranging from business to wellness.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Everything You Need To Know About Debt

Hosting A Niche Podcast Through Your Blog

You can turn your blog into a podcast platform to access monetization through ads or sponsors and loyal listeners may even become regular blog readers. Repurpose existing posts into episodes to expand your reach, and use platforms like Spotify to grow your audience.
More From The Penny Hoarder: What is Debt Consolidation — And Should I Consider It?

Offering Online Courses

Teaching through online courses lets bloggers turn knowledge into cash, and platforms like Teachable and Thinkific make it easy to host and sell lessons. Depending on your niche and depth, courses can sell for $50 to $500, offering long-term scalability and serious income potential.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Our Picks for The Best Budget Apps for Couples

Freelance Services Through Your Blog

Blogs aren’t just for content—they’re strong personal portfolios, too. Use yours to promote services like coaching, consulting, design or writing. With enough trust and visibility, your passion blog can evolve into a steady stream of freelance projects and client work.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 6 Free Budgeting Templates To Help You Save In 2025

Membership Or Subscription Content

Charging readers for exclusive access through subscriptions or memberships can create a reliable income. Tools like Patreon and MemberPress help you build gated content, and even a small but loyal base of fans can support your blog financially, month after month.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Our Picks for The Best Savings Accounts for This Month

Hosting Webinars And Live Workshops

Webinars are perfect for bloggers with a knack for teaching or coaching. You can charge for access or promote premium services during sessions. Live formats build community, offer real-time value and instantly boost your authority with personal interaction.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Our Picks for The Best High-Yield Savings Account for This Month

Creating A Paid Newsletter

With platforms like Substack, bloggers can get paid directly by readers for newsletter content. Premium versions with insider tips or deep dives attract loyal subscribers. These emails have high open rates and work especially well for niche or finance-driven topics.
More From The Penny Hoarder: The Best Rewards Credit Cards to Maximize Your Spending in 2025

Selling Physical Products Or Merch

Merch like mugs, planners or shirts lets your audience rep your brand offline. In fact, blogs focused on humor or lifestyle can earn passively with ease. With dropshipping tools like Printful, there’s no need for storage or shipping.
More From The Penny Hoarder: How to Choose a Credit Card That is Right For You

Offering Blog Coaching Or Mentorship

Bloggers with experience can offer coaching for $50 to $300+ per session, depending on skill level. Personalized help often feels more useful than a general course, which makes this a great way to build authority while earning and giving back.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Here’s How to Get Cheap Auto Insurance Without Cutting Coverage

Flipping Or Selling Established Blogs

If your blog earns consistently, it can sell for up to 36 times its monthly income. A blog pulling in $500 monthly might go for over $15,000. Platforms like Flippa or Empire Flippers help with the sale, so if you want to change careers at some point, this is a great exit strategy. 
More From The Penny Hoarder: How to Invest with AI: Tools and Tips for 2025

Building A Niche Job Board

If your blog targets a specific field like wellness or tech, you can create a job board and charge companies to post listings. Readers benefit from focused roles and tools like WP Job Manager make setup seamless. It strengthens your blog’s reputation as a go-to hub.

More From The Penny Hoarder: The Best Travel Credit Cards of 2025