Owning rental properties is one of the most well-known traditional passive income sources. Investors purchase properties (residential, commercial, or vacation rentals) and earn rental income over time. Property values also tend to appreciate, providing additional long-term profit. However, real estate requires a high upfront investment, ongoing property management, and maintenance costs.

 Investing in stocks, particularly dividend-paying stocks, is another common passive income route. Investors buy shares in companies that pay regular dividends, allowing them to earn a share of company profits. Bonds are debt instruments that pay periodic interest to investors. Both require initial capital, market knowledge, and a tolerance for risk, as returns are influenced by market fluctuations.

.Owning or investing in a business that runs with minimal oversight can also provide passive income. Franchise ownership, for example, allows individuals to earn from an established business model without day-to-day involvement. However, business ownership usually requires significant investment, and profitability can depend on location, competition, and market trends.