Walking around a new city is a fantastic way to explore, and believe it or not, you can make money at the same time. There are apps out there that pay you for your steps or little tasks you do while wandering.
These apps track your movement and offer payouts based on how much you walk, run, or even cycle in the area. Sometimes it’s cash, sometimes gift cards, or maybe just rewards—still, it adds up.
Besides apps, you could offer services like guided tours or dog walking. If you mix earning with enjoying the sights, suddenly you’ve got a side hustle that doesn’t really feel like work.
This way, getting paid just becomes part of the adventure. It’s not really extra effort—it’s just a smarter way to wander.
With the right tools, turning your walks into income isn’t as hard as it sounds. You just need a starting point and a sense of what fits your style.
The Best Ways to Make Money by Walking Around a New City
There are a handful of practical ways to earn while you walk. Apps that pay for your steps, fitness challenges, walking jobs, and turning your movement into discounts or donations are all on the table.
Top Money-Making Walking Apps
Apps like Sweatcoin, WinWalk, and Runtopia track your steps and pay out in points or a kind of digital currency. You can swap these points for PayPal cash, gift cards, or discounts, which is pretty cool if you’re already out and about.
Sweatcoin, for example, turns your steps into digital coins you can spend in their marketplace. Other apps like CashWalk and Fit for Bucks do something similar, and they often sync up with devices like Fitbit or MapMyFitness for accuracy.
Using a couple of these apps at once can bump up your earnings. Just double-check how they pay out and what the minimums are—some are better than others for different routines.
Earning Through Fitness Challenges and Step Goals
Apps like StepBet and HealthyWage let you join cash challenges where you bet on yourself to hit certain step goals. Meet your target, and you win money; miss it, and, well, you lose your bet.
These challenges can really push you to walk more, especially with friends or even strangers cheering (or competing) with you. It’s a clever way to stay motivated and maybe pocket some extra cash.
Set goals that actually make sense for your routine, and you’ll find it’s not much extra effort. If you’re a little competitive, this is a fun way to track your progress and get paid for it.
Get Paid to Walk Dogs or Make Deliveries
Dog walking is a surprisingly solid way to earn money while checking out new neighborhoods. Apps and local services can connect you with owners who need reliable walkers, and the hours are usually flexible.
Delivery gigs—think food, groceries, or small packages—often involve walking short distances in busy areas. The pay is by delivery, so good planning and a little hustle can make it worthwhile.
Both options feel more like jobs than exercise, but they’re still a great way to meet people and get to know the city. Plus, you’re not stuck indoors.
Turn Your Steps into Rewards or Charity Donations
Some apps, like Charity Miles, let you turn your steps into donations for causes you care about. You walk, and sponsors donate—no money out of your own pocket.
Others, like Walgreens Balance Rewards or MyWalgreens, give you points for walking that can be used for discounts on stuff you’d probably buy anyway. It’s not cash, but hey, saving money counts too.
Using these apps means your walking does some good, either for your wallet or for someone else. It’s a nice bonus for something you’d be doing regardless.
Creative and Unconventional Ways to Earn While Exploring
If you’re up for thinking a bit outside the box, exploring a city can be a money-maker in more creative ways. Whether it’s sharing your favorite spots, running errands, or carrying ads, there’s something for just about any personality.
Offer Local Tours as a Guide
Got a knack for storytelling or know some hidden gems? Consider becoming a tour guide. People are happy to pay for a fun, easy way to learn about a city’s food, history, or landmarks.
You don’t always need a license—just good knowledge and some people skills. Try starting with walking tours in popular neighborhoods or quirky corners, and use social media or sites like Airbnb Experiences to find your first clients.
Rates can range from $15 to $25 per hour, depending on your expertise and demand. Plus, you get to meet new people and make your own schedule.
Join the Gig Economy: Delivery and Quick Tasks
Apps like Postmates, DoorDash, Instacart, or Gigwalk let you earn while walking or biking all over the city. You might deliver food, groceries, or tackle quick tasks that someone needs done in a hurry.
Most of these gigs don’t require long hours, and you can usually pick shifts that work for you. Pay varies, but with tips, you might see $12 to $20 an hour.
Don’t forget about dog walking with apps like Rover—it’s a classic for a reason. These kinds of gigs are perfect if you want to earn on your terms, without being chained to a desk.
So, can you really make money just by walking around a new city? Absolutely—but it takes a bit of creativity, the right apps, and a willingness to try new things. Whether you’re using your steps for rewards, hustling as a guide, or taking on gig jobs, there’s a way to turn your wanderings into something profitable. Give it a shot next time you travel—you might be surprised at what you can earn just by putting one foot in front of the other.
Become a Human Billboard for Brands
Ever thought about earning money just by walking around in branded gear? Companies will actually pay you to wear their logos or carry signs in crowded places, hoping to catch the eyes of passersby.
This kind of gig pops up most often in busy downtown areas or spots packed with tourists. Makes sense, right? The more people see you, the better for the brand.
If you’re interested, you can check with local marketing agencies or hunt around on online platforms for opportunities. Pay varies, but it’s usually somewhere between $10 and $30 an hour.
There’s not much to it—just walk a route or maybe stand in a particular spot, depending on the job. It’s a pretty low-effort way to turn your regular strolls into a little extra spending money.
Honestly, if you’re already out and about, why not make your time count? It’s not glamorous, but it sure beats scrolling your phone for free.
In the end, being a human billboard isn’t for everyone, but it’s a simple side hustle if you don’t mind a little attention and want to cash in on your daily walks.
