Ask HN: Those making $500/month on side projects in 2026 – Show and tell

2026-08-24 | original

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Why This Matters

This discussion highlights the ongoing viability of side projects as a source of income in the tech industry, emphasizing their potential for entrepreneurs and developers. It underscores the importance of community sharing and motivation for those pursuing side ventures amidst evolving market conditions.

Key Takeaways

Many developers aim to earn $500/month from side projects in 2026.
Community discussions on platforms like Hacker News provide insights and motivation.
The future of side projects remains a relevant topic for tech entrepreneurs and freelancers.

There was another one of these a couple of months ago and it did not get any traction. Lets hope this one does better. I myself am at $0/mo from my side projects and am really hoping side projects still have a future.

So, those of you making $500/month or more on side projects in 2026, what are you doing these days?

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=39110194 (2024)

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=34482433 (2023)

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=29995152 (2022)

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=29667095 (2021)

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=24947167 (2020)

Explore topics: side projects ycombinator 2026 side income