How Kids Earned Money in the ’50s — Paper Routes Were Just the Start

Let me tell you something about earning money as a kid in the 1950s – we weren’t afraid of hard work! While today’s youngsters might think of allowances or birthday money, we had a different mindset altogether. With most items costing just nickels and dimes, even a small amount of earned money could make you feel rich. From dawn till dusk, we were always on the lookout for ways to earn our own spending money, and believe me, we got creative about it!

1. The Classic Paper Route

The quintessential first job for many boys (and some pioneering girls) in the ’50s was the paper route. Starting as early as age 12, we’d wake up before dawn to fold and deliver newspapers by bicycle. The real challenge came at the end of the week when we had to collect payment from customers. It taught us responsibility, customer service, and money management – skills that would last a lifetime.

2. Mowing Lawns

Armed with push mowers (no power mowers for us kids!), we’d go door-to-door offering to cut lawns for 50 cents to a dollar. The work was hard, especially in the summer heat, but the satisfaction of a well-manicured lawn and cash in hand made it worthwhile. Many of us had regular customers who’d expect us every Saturday morning.

3. Bottle Return Brigade

With a deposit of 2-3 cents per bottle, collecting and returning glass soda bottles was like finding money on the ground. We’d scour neighborhoods, ditches, and parks with our wagons, sometimes making up to a dollar on a good day. Some enterprising kids even worked out deals with local restaurants to collect their empties.

4. Babysitting Bonanza

For teenage girls especially, babysitting was a steady source of income. The going rate was about 50 cents an hour, and responsible sitters were always in demand. Parents felt safe leaving their children with neighborhood teens, and many of us became regular sitters for multiple families. It was considered more than just watching kids – we were temporary members of the family.

5. Shoveling Snow

Winter storms meant money in our pockets. Armed with wood-handled shovels, we’d be out at first light clearing driveways and sidewalks. The standard rate was about 25-50 cents per driveway, and on a good snow day, you could make several dollars. Many of us had regular customers who’d expect us after every snowfall.

6. Grocery Store Bag Boy

For teens aged 16 and up, working as a bag boy at the local grocery store was a coveted position. Not only did it provide steady income, but there were often tips from customers whose groceries we’d carry to their cars. The job taught us customer service skills and how to handle money responsibly.

7. Car Washing Enterprise

With the rise of car culture in the ’50s, washing cars became a profitable venture. Armed with buckets, sponges, and enthusiasm, we’d charge 75 cents to $1 for a complete wash. Those chrome-laden beauties took time to clean properly, but owners were happy to pay for careful attention to their prized possessions.

8. Garden Weeding Service

Many homeowners maintained victory gardens well into the ’50s, and weeding was a constant need. We’d offer our services for 25-50 cents per hour, often working in teams. It was hot, dirty work, but steady employment throughout the growing season, and sometimes we’d get fresh vegetables as a bonus.

9. Coat Check at Local Events

At local dances and social events, teenagers could earn money working the coat check. This was considered a prestigious job, as it required responsibility and good organizational skills. Tips were common, and it was a chance to be part of the local social scene while earning money.

10. Bowling Alley Pin Setter

Before automatic pin setters became common, many bowling alleys employed teenagers to set pins manually. It was fast-paced work that required quick reflexes and attention to detail. The pay was usually a few cents per frame, but on busy nights, you could make good money.

11. Soda Fountain Server

The local drugstore soda fountain was a prime job for teenagers, especially girls. Making ice cream sundaes, mixing sodas, and serving malts wasn’t just work – it was a social hub. Tips were good, especially during after-school rush hours, and you got to master the art of the perfect banana split. Plus, the occasional free ice cream didn’t hurt!

12. Movie Theater Usher

Working as an usher at the local movie theater was considered one of the most prestigious teen jobs. Wearing a smart uniform with a flashlight in hand, we’d guide patrons to their seats and maintain order during shows. The best part? Free movies! We’d know every line of dialogue from the popular films after hearing them multiple times.

13. Farm Hand Helper

In rural and suburban areas, local farms provided steady summer work for teenagers. From helping with hay baling to picking fruits and vegetables, the work was hard but paid relatively well. Many farmers preferred hiring local kids who knew the value of hard work. We’d come home exhausted but proud of our earnings and stronger for the experience.

14. Bicycle Repair Service

With bicycles being the main mode of transportation for kids, those who were mechanically inclined could earn good money fixing bikes. Armed with basic tools and know-how, we’d repair flat tires, adjust chains, and fix brakes for other kids in the neighborhood. Charging 25-50 cents for basic repairs, a skilled young mechanic could make several dollars on a busy weekend.

15. Golf Caddy

At local country clubs and public golf courses, being a caddy was a coveted position for teenage boys. Not only did it pay well through wages and tips, but it also offered networking opportunities with successful adults. We’d learn the game, proper etiquette, and often receive valuable life advice from the golfers we served. Many a future business career started on those fairways.