Hustlable

Comparison

Freelance Writing vs Consulting

Compare freelance writing and consulting as side hustles. See which pays more and which is easier to start.

✍️

Freelance Writing

Freelancing

💼

Consulting

Freelancing

Income Comparison

$200-$800
Beginner / mo
$500-$2k
$1k-$3k
Intermediate / mo
$2k-$8k
$4k-$10k
Advanced / mo
$8k-$30k
$80-$200/hr
Hourly (adv.)
$200-$500/hr

Ratings Comparison

Difficulty

Freelance Writing2/5
2/5
Consulting4/5
4/5

Flexibility

Freelance Writing5/5
5/5
Consulting4/5
4/5

Scalability

Freelance Writing3/5
3/5
Consulting3/5
3/5

Income Stability

Freelance Writing3/5
3/5
Consulting3/5
3/5

Passive Income

Freelance Writing1/5
1/5
Consulting1/5
1/5

Quick Facts

1–2 weeks
Time to first $
2–6 weeks
5-30
Hours / week
5-25
Free
Min. startup cost
Free

Skills Needed

Freelance Writing

writingresearchcommunication

Consulting

expertisecommunicationproblem solvingleadership

Compare any two hustles interactively

Use our free comparison tool to pick any combination and see a full side-by-side breakdown.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which makes more money, freelance writing or consulting?

At the advanced level, consulting has higher earning potential at up to $30k/month compared to $10k/month for freelance writing. However, beginners may earn more quickly with freelance writing.

Is freelance writing or consulting easier to start?

Freelance Writing has a difficulty of 2/5 while Consulting is 4/5. Freelance Writing is generally easier to start. Time to first dollar: Freelance Writing (1–2 weeks) vs Consulting (2–6 weeks).

Which has better passive income potential?

Freelance Writing scores 1/5 for passive income while Consulting scores 1/5. Both offer similar passive income potential. Scalability: Freelance Writing (3/5) vs Consulting (3/5).

Can I do both freelance writing and consulting at the same time?

Yes, many people combine multiple side hustles. Freelance Writing requires 5-30 hours/week and Consulting requires 5-25 hours/week. Consider starting with one and adding the other once you're comfortable.