30 Ways Yoga Teachers Can Make More Money

The idea of earning a living through teaching yoga can feel like a dream come true. But the reality is many yoga instructors face burnout and financial stress when relying solely on studio classes. The good news? There are dozens of ways to diversify your income, deepen your impact, and create a sustainable business model that aligns with your values and lifestyle.

Whether you’re fresh out of teacher training or a seasoned yogi, here are 30 smart ways yoga teachers can make more money to increase your income as a yoga teacher—with insights and ideas to help you move forward.

1. Teach at Studios and Gyms

Most teachers start here. You might earn $25–$50 per class, and teaching at multiple studios can build your name and client base. But over time, this model can be physically exhausting and financially limiting.

2. Offer Private Sessions

Private clients typically pay 3–5x more per hour than group classes. Market yourself as a specialist—whether in restorative yoga, strength-based flows, or therapeutic movement—and you’ll attract clients looking for tailored support.

3. Create Corporate Wellness Packages

Many companies offer yoga classes as part of wellness initiatives. You can charge per session or on a retainer basis, and often, this market pays more reliably than studios.

4. Teach at Hotels or Resorts

Especially in tourist areas, boutique hotels and resorts look for in-house yoga teachers. This can be part-time, or you can propose a wellness weekend.

5. Kids, Teens, and Family Yoga

Teaching younger age groups may require additional certifications but is in growing demand. Schools, libraries, and private families are always looking for engaging and mindful after-school activities.

6. Host Pop-Up Events

Park yoga, rooftop flows, or community center events offer a fun way to reach new students and keep 100% of the profit. Add music, juice bars, or collaborations with local businesses for added appeal.

7. Staff a Yoga Retreat

Retreat companies are often looking for instructors to teach abroad in exchange for room, board, and a stipend. These can build your credibility and network.

8. Launch Your Own Retreats

This is where yoga teachers can make significant income. Focus on a destination or theme (e.g., surf and yoga, digital detox, Ayurveda) and outsource logistics if needed. The key: create an experience worth talking about.

9. Lead Themed Workshops

Workshops offer deeper dives into niche areas like handstands, trauma-informed yoga, sound healing, or prenatal yoga. You can charge more and provide a more intimate experience.

10. Write Articles or eBooks

There’s always demand for great content in the yoga space. Start your own blog or pitch to publications like Yoga Journal, MindBodyGreen, or Elephant Journal.

11. Sell Your Own Book or eBook

Self-publishing is easier than ever. Turn your knowledge into a guidebook, workbook, or a memoir of your journey. Amazon, Gumroad, and Payhip are excellent platforms to sell.

12. Launch a Podcast

Use it to share stories, interview other yogis, or give mini dharma talks. Monetize through sponsorships, donations, or funneling listeners into your programs.

13. Develop a Signature Yoga Program

Do you have a unique sequence or philosophy? Build a program around it and sell it as a course, guide, or series. Branding your methodology can open doors to global recognition.

14. Become a Studio Manager or Owner

Take on leadership at a studio or co-create one with like-minded teachers. You’ll influence the schedule, student experience, and bottom line.

15. Run Teacher Trainings or Continuing Ed

Once you’ve gained enough experience (and ideally become a 500-hour certified instructor), you can start leading trainings. This is one of the highest-earning yoga services.

Going Digital – Scale with Less Burnout!

16. Build a YouTube Channel

Offer high-quality free content, grow your subscriber base, and monetize via ads and sponsorships. It takes time to grow, but it’s a powerful long-term strategy.

17. Partner with Online Platforms

Submit your classes to apps like Glo, Insight Timer, or Alo Moves. They often pay per view or provide instructor stipends.

18. Offer Classes via Zoom or Vimeo

You don’t need fancy equipment to start teaching virtually. A ring light, mic, and basic editing skills can take you far. Charge for drop-ins or create a membership.

19. Create a Subscription on Patreon or Substack

Give your most loyal followers behind-the-scenes access, exclusive classes, or private mentorship. Monthly recurring income can provide stability.

20. Design a Signature Online Course

Teach others what you know—this could be yoga philosophy, business building, social media for yogis, or a guided chakra series. Use Thinkific, Teachable, or Kajabi.

Bonus Ideas That Leverage Your Expertise

21. Teach CEU Workshops to Other Teachers

Offer yoga teachers continuing education units (CEUs) through Yoga Alliance. These specialized trainings can help fellow instructors sharpen their craft—and you get paid well for your expertise.

22. Sell Digital Downloads

PDF sequences, guided meditations, playlists, journaling prompts—all can be sold on your website or Etsy. Small products, big potential.

23. Affiliate Marketing

Earn commissions when students purchase gear you recommend (mats, leggings, props). Partner with brands or use affiliate networks like ShareASale.

24. Launch a Yoga App

A bigger lift, but it can pay off. Offer daily videos, challenges, community forums, and downloadable content. Apps like Sutra and Union make it easier.

25. Offer Yoga Therapy

With the right certification, yoga therapy allows you to work with people one-on-one who have injuries, trauma, or chronic conditions. It’s meaningful and often well-compensated.

Make It Sustainable

26. Create a Personal Brand

Your students aren’t just coming for yoga—they’re coming for you. Show your story, your voice, and your values through your website, Instagram, and email newsletter.

27. Build an Email List

Unlike social media, you own your list. Send weekly insights, promos, or resources. It’s one of the best tools for growing your offerings.

28. Sell Branded Products or Merch

Print-on-demand platforms like Printful let you create custom leggings, journals, tote bags, or candles. Combine your yoga aesthetic with items your audience will love.

29. Host Virtual Summits

Gather other wellness leaders and offer a themed multi-day event online. Charge for access or upsell a VIP replay package.

30. Be a Traveling Teacher

Work trade with hotels, teach at yoga festivals, or sublet spaces in new cities. Build your presence internationally and live the yogi lifestyle on the road.

You don’t need to do all 30 of these. In fact, trying to do too much will burn you out. Instead, choose 3–5 streams that align with your unique strengths, lifestyle, and goals.

The yoga world is shifting—from traditional studio models to more empowered, independent, and digital-first careers. The teachers who embrace change, learn basic business skills, and invest in their personal brand are the ones who thrive.

Above all, remember: you can make money and stay aligned with your values. Teaching yoga and building a business aren’t mutually exclusive—they’re deeply complementary paths when done with intention.

Namaste and go get that abundance!