Introduction
Online teaching is one of the fastest, most flexible ways to earn money from home — but most teachers don’t realize just how many income streams are available. If you’ve only ever taught for a company, you’re likely missing out on additional ways to earn more without working more hours.
This post breaks down exactly how online teachers make money, with real-world examples and income streams you can start today.
1. Teaching for Companies (The “Starting Point”)
Many teachers begin by teaching through companies like VIPKid, Preply, Cambly, or other marketplace-style platforms. These opportunities provide:
- A fast way to start teaching
- Built-in students
- No marketing required
These platforms are especially helpful for new teachers who want to build confidence, gain experience, and understand how online teaching works. Pay typically ranges from $8–$22 per hour depending on the company, making them a solid entry point but not a long-term strategy.
Limitations:
- Lower pay ranges
- Limited control over schedule and curriculum
- Hard to scale past a certain income ceiling
Most teachers eventually outgrow company work because the income ceiling becomes frustrating. That’s why for so many educators, company work becomes the launchpad, not the destination.
Read more: How to Transition from Teaching Platforms to Your Own Company
Here are some companies you can work for:
Or check out this playlist
2. Private 1:1 Students (The Fastest Path to Higher Income)
This is where nearly every high-earning online teacher eventually lands.
Why it works:
- Higher rates ($25–$90/hr depending on niche)
- Stable income
- Long-term students
- Complete control over curriculum, pacing, and scheduling
Parents prefer private teachers because they get personalized lessons, consistent communication, and better progress for their child. Teachers also build stronger relationships, which leads to long-term bookings and referrals.
Examples:
- Teachers offering English speaking lessons
- Creative writing teachers
- Reading intervention teachers
- Conversation practice for adults
A typical timeline for securing your first private student is anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Many teachers start with one student, then gain two or three more through referrals. This is the #1 way teachers double or triple their income.
Read more: How to Step Away from Teaching Companies
3. Small Group Classes (Maximum Earnings per Hour)
Once your schedule starts filling up, group classes allow you to earn significantly more in the same amount of time.
For example:
- 3 students × $20 = $60 per class
- 5 students × $15 = $75 per class
Parents love group classes because they are affordable, social, and build confidence. For teachers, they are one of the easiest ways to scale without doubling your workload.
Group classes work especially well when students are similar in age or level. Most teachers start with one-on-one lessons and then create a group class for students who have similar needs.
Group classes are especially popular for:
- Reading clubs
- Writing workshops
- Seasonal camps
- Conversation groups
4. Short Courses & Workshops
Short-term classes are fantastic for:
- Bringing new students into your environment
- Offering a low-commitment way for families to try your teaching style
- Increasing income without adding weekly commitments
Examples:
- 4-week writing bootcamp
- “Speak with Confidence” mini course
- Homework help intensive
These create predictable bursts of income.
5. Digital Products for Students or Teachers
This is where teachers can start building passive income.
Examples include:
- Printable worksheets
- Writing prompts
- Phonics packs
- Lesson plans
- Student workbooks
- Curriculum bundles
You can sell these on:
- Your website
- Etsy
- Teachers Pay Teachers
Digital products pair perfectly with an existing teaching audience.
6. YouTube, Blogging, and Content Creation
Many online teachers expand into content creation, which can turn into real income through:
- Ad revenue
- Affiliate marketing
- Sponsorships
- Digital product sales
- Memberships
Content brings in students, builds authority, and creates additional income streams.
7. Memberships & Learning Communities
Some teachers eventually offer:
- Ongoing tutoring memberships
- Monthly skill-building clubs
- Parent resource memberships
Memberships create recurring income that grows over time.
A great way to earn money through communities or memberships is through Skool. I recently started moving my memberships to Skool, and it has gone really well!
8. Seasonal & Specialty Offers
Teachers can capitalize on special seasons where parents actively look for support:
- Back-to-school tutoring
- Exam prep intensives
- Holiday camps
- Summer programs
Seasonal offers can bring in large bursts of income.
Conclusion
Online teachers have more income opportunities than ever before. Whether you’re teaching for companies, going independent, or building additional income streams on the side, there has never been a better time to run your own teaching business.
And if you want the roadmap to making this easier…
If you’re an online teacher and want to enroll more independent students outside of a company, make sure you join Teacher Boss Society.
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