In 2025, Hobbyists have emerged as a vibrant cultural segment: individuals who dedicate time, money, and passion to non-professional pursuits—whether crafting, gardening, gaming, or artisanal creativity. Once routine, hobbies now drive personal identity, social bonds, and even economic activity.

Five Key Trends Defining Hobbyists in 2025

1. Having Hobbies is Good for your Mental Health

A study published in 2023 by Nature Medicine suggests that having a hobby is good for your health, mood, and more. Researchers combed through five large studies involving more than 93,000 people across 16 countries (including the United States, Japan, and a dozen European countries). The study found that people who have hobbies reported better health, fewer symptoms of depression, and higher life satisfaction than those that don’t. (Harvard Health Publishing)

2. Side Hustles Fuel Hobbyist Momentum

Many hobbyists are turning hobby into income. In the U.S., over 36% of adults hold a side hustle—be it crafting, tutoring, or freelance services. The global side-hustle economy was valued at USD 556.7 billion in 2024, with a strong CAGR of 16.18%, and is projected to reach over USD 2.15 trillion by 2033. (Hostinger)

In the UK specifically, 39% of working adults have a side hustle, earning on average £914 per month, with creative services like crafting particularly popular. (finder.com)

Hobbies are increasingly becoming micro-businesses—fusing passion with profit, and reshaping how people approach fulfilment and income.

3. Resilient Pursuits in the Face of Financial Pressure

Despite economic strain, hobbies endured. Research from Mintel shows that although participation in leisure hobby activities dipped due to rising living costs, core traditional hobbies—like reading, baking, and gardening—remained stable. For many, hobbies provide solace and structure amid uncertainty. (mintel) Hobbies continue to fulfil emotional and psychological needs, even as budgets tighten—underscoring the resilience of this cultural force.

4. Hobby Industries Thriving Through Experience and Community

Retailers are pivoting toward experiential and sustainable offerings. For example, Bunnings Warehouse has become known for its its weekend sausage sizzles and DIY workshops that not only attract customers but also foster a sense of community. These events create a welcoming environment where customers can learn, socialise, and connect with the brand on a deeper level. Hobbyists are not only consumers—they’re active participants in craft, craftivism, and community building.

5. Emerging Tech-Enhanced Hobby Culture

Home-based hobbies are gaining economic significance. Digitisation allows hobbyists to share, learn, and monetise their pursuits, powering new digital marketplaces and micro-entrepreneurship. Technology is expanding the reach and impact of hobbies—transforming them from solitary pastime into digitally connected, shared cultural expressions. (Independent)

Key Takeaways for 2025

• Hobbyists report having better mental health and higher life satisfaction than people who don’t have hobbies.

• Side hustles and creative monetisation have elevated hobbyist activity into income-generating ventures.

• Hobbies have proven emotional anchors during periods of economic constraint.

• Retail adaptations show demand for experience, sustainability, and community, reinforcing hobbyists as engaged participants.

• Digital platforms are amplifying hobbyist identities, blending passion and entrepreneurship.

Looking Ahead

Hobbyists remind us that creativity—and connection—can thrive anywhere from kitchens to online studios. Join us next week as we explore “I is for Investors,” spotlighting the rise of everyday investors, crypto enthusiasts, and values-driven capitalists reshaping finance and funding from the ground up.

Sources & Further Reading

• Having a hobby tied to happiness and well-being (Harvard Health Publishing)

• Side hustle prevalence & growth (Hostinger) (finder.com)

• UK hobby participation (mintel.com)

• The Convergence of Hobbies, Recreation, and Cryptocurrency: A Modern Perspective (Independent)

Article by ChatGPT | Fact-Checked by ChatGPT

Further checks by Mahalia Tanner.