10 Investment Strategies To Earn $100K in Passive Income This Year (2024)

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

See Also

What Will My Lifestyle Look Like If I Retire at 65 With $1 Million?Investment Strategies for Making $100,000 Per Year in Passive IncomeAsk an Advisor: I Have $1 Million and Want 'It to Work For Me.' How Do I Maximize Passive Income and Minimize Taxes?Warren Buffett Is Expected To Rake In Over $6 Billion In Dividends In The Next Year - Here Are His 3 Biggest Income-Producing Stocks

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

See Also

Can You Retire on $1 Million?

Earning $100,000 a year in passive income is not just a dream — it’s a tangible goal that can be achieved with strategic planning and smart investments. Whether you’re looking to supplement your current income or build a foundation for financial independence, understanding and leveraging the right investment strategies can open the door to this significant milestone. Keep reading to learn how to make $100k a year in passive income.

What Is Passive Income?

Passive income is money earned from activities where a person isn’t actively involved all the time. Examples include money made from renting out property, profits from a business where the person isn’t hands-on and royalties from things like books or patents. The main thing about passive income is that it usually needs some initial investment or work, but after that, it keeps making money with little to no extra effort.

How To Make $100K a Year in Passive Income: 10 Ways

Learning how to make $100,000 a year in passive income is achievable through smart investment choices and a deep understanding of different income-generating options. This process involves identifying high-return opportunities, understanding the risks and diversifying your investment portfolio. Consistent effort, patience and ongoing learning are crucial in steadily building your passive income to this level. Here are some effective strategies for reaching that $100,000 annual passive income goal.

1. Real Estate Investments

Investing in real estate, whether through rental properties or real estate investment trusts, offers a reliable source of passive income. Rental properties can provide consistent monthly income, while REITs allow for investment in real estate without the need to manage properties directly.

2. Investing in Dividend Growth Stocks

Dividend growth stocks are one of the best passive income investments. These stocks belong to companies with a history of increasing their dividend payouts over time. The key is to invest in stable companies that show consistent performance and growth potential. This approach not only offers regular dividend income but also the potential for capital appreciation. It’s a compelling way to build wealth steadily, with the added advantage of compounding returns if dividends are reinvested.

3. Peer-to-Peer Lending

Platforms for peer-to-peer lending allow you to lend money to individuals or small businesses online, earning income through interest payments. It’s a way to diversify your investment portfolio beyond traditional stocks and bonds.

4. Create an Online Course or Book

If you have expertise in a particular area, creating an e-book or online course can be a lucrative passive income stream. Once the initial work is done, these digital products can continue to sell without much additional effort.

5. Automated Stock Trading

Automated stock trading using robo-advisors can provide passive income through carefully curated investment portfolios. These tools use algorithms to manage your investments based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

6. Rental Property in High-Demand Areas

Investing in rental properties in high-demand areas can lead to consistent, higher rental income. These locations often have a lower vacancy rate and the potential for property value appreciation, making them a smart choice for long-term investment. Proper management and maintenance can further enhance profitability.

7. High-Yield Bond Funds

High-yield bond funds, while riskier, can offer significant returns. They are ideal for investors looking to diversify their portfolio beyond stocks. It’s important to carefully assess the risk and choose funds managed by experienced professionals.

8. Develop a Mobile App

Creating a mobile app and monetizing it can be a lucrative venture. The key is to identify a market need and offer a unique solution. Successful apps can generate continuous revenue through various models, including advertisem*nts, in-app purchases or subscriptions.

9. License Your Photography or Artwork

Licensing your original photography or artwork can be a profitable way to earn passive income. By selling the rights to use your images or designs to individuals, businesses or stock photo websites, you can earn royalties without ongoing effort. This approach is especially beneficial if you have a portfolio of high-quality, unique images or artwork that appeals to a broad audience.

10. Automated E- Commerce Business

An automated e-commerce business, particularly through models like dropshipping, requires minimal day-to-day management once set up. By leveraging online platforms and automated fulfillment services, you can generate substantial income, though it’s important to stay updated with market trends and customer preferences.

Final Take

Learning how to make $100k a year in passive income is a journey that combines planning and strategic financial decisions. By exploring and utilizing the best passive income investments and strategies, you can progressively build your wealth and achieve financial freedom. Remember, the path to earning significant passive income is unique to each individual’s circ*mstances, risk tolerance and financial goals.

Jenny Rose Spaudo contributed to the reporting for this article.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.