About This Side Hustle
WordPress powers over 40% of all websites on the internet, creating massive ongoing demand for developers who can build, customize, and maintain WordPress sites. From simple business websites to complex WooCommerce stores, the market for WordPress development is enormous. You can specialize in custom theme development, plugin creation, site migrations, or performance optimization.
Earning Potential
Simple WordPress sites sell for $500-2,000. Business websites with custom functionality sell for $2,000-5,000. WooCommerce stores range from $3,000-10,000. Monthly maintenance clients add $100-300 each in recurring revenue.
Pros
- Massive market demand
- Projects can be completed quickly
- Recurring maintenance revenue
- Low barrier to entry
- Huge plugin ecosystem
Cons
- Competitive pricing pressure
- Security maintenance required
- Client scope creep
- Technology sometimes considered outdated
30-Day Launch Plan
Build Your Skills
Set up your development environment and build portfolio sites
- Install LocalWP and build 2-3 demo websites
- Learn Elementor or Gutenberg block editor thoroughly
- Study WooCommerce setup for e-commerce projects
- Create a portfolio website showcasing your demo work
Set Your Pricing
Create service packages and pricing structure
- Define 3 service tiers (basic site, business site, e-commerce)
- Price packages starting at $500-1,500 for basic sites
- Create a client intake questionnaire and project brief template
- Set up a contract template covering scope and revisions
Find Clients
Market your WordPress development services
- Create an Upwork profile highlighting WordPress expertise
- Join local business networking groups and chambers of commerce
- Offer a free website audit to local businesses with outdated sites
- Post WordPress tips on LinkedIn to build credibility
Deliver & Retain
Complete projects and secure maintenance contracts
- Deliver your first client website ahead of schedule
- Offer monthly maintenance plans ($50-200/month)
- Set up a referral incentive program for past clients
- Build page templates you can reuse for faster project delivery
Tips for Success
- Specialize in a niche (restaurants, dentists, law firms) for faster project delivery
- Always include a monthly maintenance package in your proposals
- Use premium themes and plugins to speed up development
- Create reusable templates for common page types
- Learn basic SEO to offer it as a value-add service
Skills Required
Tools Needed
- Local development environment (LocalWP)
- Premium theme license (Astra, GeneratePress)
- Hosting account
- Page builder (Elementor or Beaver Builder)