Embarking on your journey in the vast universe of Star Citizen can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to making money. The game offers a variety of ways for you to earn that extra aUEC (in-game currency).

In this article, we will guide you through some of the most lucrative methods that suit both beginners and experienced players, ensuring you prosper in the universe of Star Citizen.

You might find yourself spending hours exploring planets, engaging in thrilling space battles, or honing your trading skills. While the game offers a plethora of activities, finding the best methods to make money can be a tad overwhelming.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate through profitable methods that align with your interests and capabilities.

Whether you’re just starting out with a small ship or building a more advanced fleet, it’s essential to understand the game’s mechanics and economy.

Remember that the right combination of strategy and persistence will help you maximize your earnings and lead to a fulfilling experience in the world of Star Citizen.

Are you ready? Let’s dive in and explore the various ways to boost your in-game wealth!

Understanding Star Citizen’s Economy

In Star Citizen, the economy is a living, breathing entity that connects a vast space combat simulation with an intricate model of a star-spanning empire. It operates on the principles of supply and demand, making it essential for players like you to grasp its workings to make the most of your earning potential.

As you venture into the game, you’ll discover that goods can be sold for a high price in areas where they are scarce while being cheap in places where they are abundant. This dynamic economic environment creates a realistic experience for players like you, who can make a fortune by predicting and responding to market fluctuations.

The Star Citizen Economy – Roberts Space Industries provides more insight into the game’s economic model.

The star-spanning empire’s economy consists of three interconnected parts: demand, production, and transport. Millions of entities in the game, like various NPCs and players like you, interact with these different aspects to shape the economy’s overall structure.

The Star Citizen Wiki provides some in-depth information about the game’s economic layout.

Here are some key aspects of the Star Citizen economy:

• Dynamic supply and demand: As resources and goods fluctuate in availability across different regions, prices adjust accordingly, presenting lucrative opportunities to players like you who can make calculated investments and strategic decisions.
• Focus on trade and resources: The game emphasizes the exchange of goods and resources between different planets and destinations, as well as the transport of these goods throughout the vast expanse of space.
• Realistic trade routes and transport: Star Citizen’s economy simulates real-world transport routes, making it essential for you to choose the most efficient routes not only to save time but also to minimize potential hazards.

Getting Started with Earning

Welcome to the world of Star Citizen! As you begin your journey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the various ways to earn credits in-game. Here are a few tips to help get you started on the right track.

Firstly, try asking fellow players in the chat for help with shared missions. This approach can lead to exciting adventures and valuable experiences while also earning you some in-game currency. Be cautious, though, as it might be a trap.

You can find more information on how to ask for help on this beginner’s guide.

A key step to making money in Star Citizen is starting with a small ship. Many new players make the mistake of purchasing a large and expensive ship right off the bat, only to face higher operating costs and greater risks.

Smaller ships offer a more manageable and cost-effective way to start, as mentioned in this guide for beginners.

Exploring various money-making options is crucial to your success in the game. From trading goods to completing missions, Star Citizen offers a wide range of activities for you to earn aUEC (the in-game currency).

Take the time to research and try different methods in order to figure out which ones suit your playstyle best, as discussed in this Star Citizen tutorial.

Finally, don’t be afraid to switch servers after completing missions to find new opportunities. The Star Citizen Money Making Guide explains that profits will depend on available missions. Changing servers allows you to access different missions and keep your money-making ventures going.

Trading and Cargo Transport

In Star Citizen, trading and cargo transport are essential aspects of making money. This section will provide you with information on the best trade routes and choosing the right cargo ship for your needs.

Best Trade Routes

To maximize your profits in Star Citizen, it’s crucial to find the most profitable trade routes. Remember that the economy is dynamic, with prices changing depending on supply and demand.

Keep an eye on market fluctuations to identify new trading opportunities and be prepared to adapt your route accordingly. Here are a few tips for finding the best trade routes:

• Research: Start by investigating popular trade hubs and their surrounding systems. Look for commodities with high demand and limited supply.
• Diversify: Don’t rely on a single route or commodity. Diversifying your portfolio helps mitigate risks and opens up new opportunities.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest news and community discussions to discover new lucrative trade routes or market changes.

Choosing the Right Cargo Ship

Picking the right cargo ship can greatly impact your trading success. Here are a few factors to consider when selecting the best ship for your needs:

• Cargo capacity: A high cargo capacity allows you to transport larger quantities of goods, increasing your potential profits. The Caterpillar, for example, is a popular choice for traders due to its large cargo capacity.
• Speed and agility: Fast and maneuverable ships can cut down travel time between trade hubs and help you avoid potential threats from pirates or hostile players.
• Defensive capabilities: Trading ships with strong shields, armor, and weapons can defend against attacks and deter potential threats.
• Cost: Consider the initial purchase price and operating costs of the ship. Keep in mind that bigger ships generally have higher running costs, which could reduce your profit margins.

Mining for Profits

In Star Citizen, mining is a lucrative way to earn in-game currency. This section will provide an overview of mining with a focus on hand mining and ship mining, as well as the best mining locations.

Hand Mining

Hand mining is an affordable and profitable method for new players to start making money in Star Citizen. To begin hand mining, you’ll need a Personal Mining Tool (PMT) and a Pembroke Suit available at most major trading hubs.

Once you have both, land on a moon or planet and search for valuable minerals like Hadanite. One successful mining session can yield around 200k in approximately 2 hours using a ROC mining vehicle.

Just be careful when overloading your ROC to make longer trips for more aUEC, as it may result in decreased mining efficiency.

Ship Mining

Ship mining is the primary means of obtaining resources in Star Citizen. Mining ships, such as the Prospector, can access larger asteroid belts and surface deposits, increasing your profit potential.

Some players report making 30k in a single mining trip to locations like Yela (more on that later).

If you don’t own a mining ship, you can rent a Prospector, although this may require more time to make a profit.

Keep in mind that mining gadgets on a rented Prospector can boost the ship’s performance, making it a worthwhile consideration for new players.

Mining Locations

Star Citizen offers various destinations for mining, ensuring that the experience doesn’t get monotonous. Here are some popular locations:

• Yela: This moon of Crusader is a favorite among miners and offers a good combination of resources, making it an ideal place to make a profit.
• Aberdeen: Located in the Hurston system, Aberdeen is rich in Hadanite, a valuable mineral that can yield substantial returns. Try mining there using a ROC and a Pembroke Suit for maximum aUEC earnings.
• Asteroid belts: You can also venture out into the asteroid belts roaming through various star systems. These locations offer different resources compared to planets and moons, making them ideal for those with mining ships like the Prospector.

Bounty Hunting and Mercenary Work

Star Citizen offers a variety of ways to make money, and among them, bounty hunting and mercenary work stand out as exciting, combat-oriented options.

Finding Contracts

To find contracts, you’ll want to visit the contract manager in your mobiGlas. Here, you can browse and accept various missions, including bounty hunting and mercenary contracts.

Keep in mind that as you progress and maintain a good reputation, you’ll have access to higher-paying contracts.

It’s essential to choose contracts that match your skill level and equipment.

Equipping for Combat

Getting ready for combat means you need to invest in decent weapons and armor. Here are some pointers for equipping yourself for bounty hunting and mercenary work:

Armor: Your armor should provide excellent protection without sacrificing mobility. Take your time to research and purchase an armor set that fits your combat style and preferences.

Weapons: Prioritize weapons that are effective for your chosen type of combat.

Consider investing in a mix of ballistic and energy weapons to tackle different enemies and situations effectively.

Ship: Your ship plays a huge role in your success as a bounty hunter or mercenary.

Select a ship with the necessary firepower, speed, and maneuverability for engaging in combat. Remember to keep your ship equipped with the latest weapons and components to stay competitive in the battlefield.

Salvaging

In Star Citizen, salvaging is an excellent way to make money. As a salvager, you can reclaim valuable materials from wrecked ships, space debris, and other sources.

It’s an engaging and rewarding profession that allows you to explore the depths of space in search of treasure.

When starting your salvaging journey, you’ll want to choose the right ship and equipment.

Two in-game ships are suitable for salvaging operations: the Drake Vulture for solo or small crew operations and the Aegis Reclaimer for large-scale reclamation projects with multiple crewmembers.

With the proper equipment, you can utilize your ship’s scanner to detect valuable salvage.

Look for mass density readings that are multiples of 2000 like 2000, 4000, 6000, etc., as these signify salvage-worthy materials.

Remember to skip rocks with readings like 1700, 3400, and 5100, as they won’t yield valuable loot.

One of the most profitable ways to make money from salvaging is by collecting and selling intact ship components.

Focusing on these valuable pieces allows you to maximize your profits and minimize your time spent in hazardous or dangerous areas.

A friendly piece of advice: keep an eye out for 3.19 salvage contracts to help you locate hidden gems in the verse.

Mission Running

Star Citizen offers a wide array of mission types to help you earn in-game currency.

In this section, we’ll discuss the different types of missions and how you can maximize your rewards as a budding space explorer.

Types of Missions

Star Citizen’s universe is filled with various missions that cater to different playstyles. Here are some popular mission types you might encounter:

• Bounty Hunting: Hunt down wanted criminals or rogue players for lucrative rewards.
• Delivery: Transport cargo or packages from one location to another, often while evading pirates or battling the elements of space.
• Hand Mining: Venture to remote locations and mine valuable resources using handheld tools.
• Escort: Provide security for valuable assets or important non-player characters (NPCs) as they travel through dangerous locations.

Remember, teaming up with other players or asking for help in the chat can improve your chances of success as a new player.

Maximizing Rewards

To make the most of your mission-running efforts, consider these tips:

• Establish a Reputation: Building a strong reputation with in-game factions yields better and higher-paying mission offers. Focus on completing missions for a single group to boost your standing.
• Choose your Missions Wisely: Some missions will naturally pay out more than others. For example, bounty hunting missions can be particularly lucrative once you’ve earned HRT and VHRT certificates.
• Equip the Right Ship: Different missions may require specific ships or equipment. Make sure you have the appropriate tools for each task you undertake.
• Learn from Others: Watch experienced players’ guides on YouTube or ask for advice in-game chat to hone your strategies and learn the most efficient methods for making money in Star Citizen.

Investing in Profitable Ships

In the world of Star Citizen, making money is essential for a smooth gaming experience. One key aspect for generating income is investing in the right ships. In this section, we’ll discuss how to evaluate ships for ROI (Return on Investment) and the pros and cons of renting versus buying.

Evaluating Ships for ROI

When investing in a ship for profit, you want to consider its capabilities and the potential return it can generate. To help with your assessment:

1. Focus on ship type: Different ships excel in various fields, such as mining, trading, or bounty hunting. Be sure to consider the type of activities you would like to engage in before investing in a ship.
2. Review ship specifications: Carefully analyze a ship’s cargo capacity, defense systems, and other features to ensure it aligns with your objectives.
3. Invest in versatile ships: Some ships, like the Prospector, are compatible with different tasks like mining and trading, which can maximize profit potential.

Renting vs. Buying

Before investing in a particular ship, evaluate whether renting or buying makes more sense for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Benefits of Renting

• Lower upfront cost: Renting allows you to test out different ships with minimal initial investment.
• No maintenance or repair costs: You won’t be responsible for maintaining or repairing rented ships.
• Flexibility: Renting enables you to easily swap between different ships depending on your needs and changing in-game conditions.

Benefits of Buying

• Long-term investment: Buying a ship provides a sense of ownership and the potential for greater ROI in the long run.
• Customization: Owning a ship allows you to customize and upgrade it to suit your preferences and playstyle.
• Potential for in-game income: You can earn in-game currency by offering services to other players or participating in specific activities with your purchased ship.

Exploring for Income

Discovery-based Profits

In Star Citizen, exploring can be both an adventurous and lucrative way to make money. As you traverse the universe, you’ll come across various opportunities for earning income through exploration.

One of the key aspects of exploration in Star Citizen is discovering valuable resources such as shipwrecks, jump points, and mineral deposits.

These discoveries can be sold to guilds or you can choose to harvest the found assets yourself (source).

Your ability to spot and capitalize on these opportunities will directly contribute to your growing wealth in the game.

Here are a few tips to help you make the most out of your exploration efforts:

• Stay alert and keep your eyes open for potential discoveries in the unknown regions of space.
• Be prepared for the unexpected! Equip your ship with the right tools and upgrades to maximize your chances of finding valuable resources.
• Familiarize yourself with the in-game market and look for potentially profitable opportunities, such as underexplored areas or systems undergoing active development.

Capitalizing on In-Game Events

In Star Citizen, making money becomes easier when you know how to take advantage of in-game events. These events can provide lucrative opportunities, and participating in them can boost your in-game earning potential.

One such in-game event to look out for is the Ninetails lockdown.

During this event, traders can enjoy colossal bonuses, earning extra 1k per SCU sold. This bonus can help you make up to 900k per trip in a C2.

Not only do the traders benefit, but pirates can also earn big as they are awarded 50k per kill in the area. So, depending on whether you prefer trading or engaging in combat, these events can be a goldmine.

Another approach to capitalize on in-game events is paying attention to mission availability.

Some missions can pay around 6k each, and by doing 6-10 of them per hour, you can earn between 36-60k credits.

Ensure you have a good starter ship and be open to trying out various missions to maximize your earnings.

Lastly, don’t forget to stay updated with the Star Citizen community.

Players often share valuable insights and information about ongoing or upcoming events. Keeping yourself informed will help you stay ahead and seize lucrative opportunities as they arise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the fastest way to make money in Star Citizen?

The fastest way to make money in Star Citizen depends on your playing style and available ships.

However, for many players, bounty hunting is an efficient method, as it can provide around ~60k per hour.

Just remember that success may vary depending on your experience and skill level.

How can beginners earn money in Star Citizen?

If you’re new to Star Citizen, don’t worry. You can still make money in the game.

One simple way to earn money is by doing starter missions, which can pay around 6k each.

You may be able to complete around 6-10 missions per hour, earning you 36-60k credits per hour.

What are the top money-making strategies in Star Citizen?

There are multiple ways to make money in Star Citizen, depending on your ship, experience, and preferences.

Some popular strategies include bounty hunting, mining, trade, and participating in group activities.

For instance, you could join someone else’s ship as a gunner or pilot to earn money.

How do you make money hauling cargo in Star Citizen?

To make money hauling cargo, first, find a trade route and determine the best goods to transport.

Buy low, sell high, and keep in mind the distance and risks involved.

Carefully managing your cargo space and ensuring your ship is well-equipped for protection against pirates or other hazards will help optimize your profits.

Which ship is the best for earning money in Star Citizen?

The best ship for earning money depends on your preferred in-game activities.

For mining, the Prospector is a popular choice due to its affordability and performance.

For combat-oriented players, ships like the Aegis Hammerhead or Anvil Arrow might be better options.

In general, try to choose a ship that suits your playing style and offers a good mix of features and affordability.

Does ROC mining generate good income in Star Citizen?

Yes, ROC mining can be a profitable activity in Star Citizen.

Many players enjoy using the Greycat ROC for mining as it is compact, easy to use, and generates a good income when mining valuable materials like Hadanite.

Remember, though, that the income you receive from ROC mining can vary depending on the resources you find and market conditions.