Hey OSRS players! Are you just starting out in Old School RuneScape and finding yourself a little short on cash? Don't worry, we've all been there! Making money in OSRS can seem daunting at first, but there are plenty of low-level money-making methods available that can help you get your bankroll started. This guide is specifically tailored for those early-game players who are looking for ways to earn some gold without needing high-level skills or expensive gear. We'll be diving into several methods, giving you the lowdown on what they involve, how much you can expect to earn, and any important tips to maximize your profits. Whether you're aiming to buy your first bond, upgrade your equipment, or just have some spending money, these methods are a great way to kickstart your OSRS journey. So, let's get started and turn those low-level struggles into high-level successes! This guide will also touch on how Reddit and other online communities can offer invaluable advice and strategies for aspiring moneymakers in OSRS. Plus, it's not all about the GP per hour; we'll also talk about the skills you'll develop along the way, which will eventually open doors to even more profitable ventures. The great thing about OSRS is that there's always something to learn, and every little bit helps when you're starting out. So buckle up, grab your pickaxe (or fishing rod!), and get ready to learn how to make some easy gold!

Early Game Money Making: The Essentials

Before we jump into specific methods, let's talk about some basic principles that apply to making money in OSRS, no matter your level. First and foremost, efficiency is key. Time is money, so finding ways to optimize your actions will always pay off. This could mean using efficient routes, setting up your bank properly, or mastering the techniques involved in your chosen method. Next up, it's really important to know your market. Prices fluctuate in OSRS, and what's profitable today might not be tomorrow. Keep an eye on the Grand Exchange (GE) prices for the items you're working with, so you know how much to buy and sell for to make sure you're actually earning profits. Also, remember that patience is a virtue. Some methods have a slow start, but the rewards can be worth it. Finally, and this is super crucial, always stay safe. Avoid dangerous areas and be aware of potential threats like PKers (Player Killers), especially if you're carrying valuable items. Now, let’s talk about some of the early game methods that have helped countless players to start their adventures.

The Importance of Starting Small

When you're a fresh account, the goal isn't to get rich overnight. It's about establishing a consistent income source and building your skills. Trying to go for the big money right away can be disheartening and time-consuming. Instead, focus on methods that require minimal investment and offer steady, albeit small, profits. These early methods will let you experience the game and develop the skills that will be useful later on. This also allows you to learn how the game's economy works. Understanding the dynamics of buying, selling, and trading is vital to making informed decisions when you start dealing with more valuable items and larger sums of money. Starting small helps you learn these principles without the stress of losing a lot of gold. Plus, the money you earn can be reinvested into better gear, which will increase the efficiency of your money-making methods and open up new opportunities. The key is to start, learn, adapt, and grow. Every step you take, no matter how small, contributes to your progression and overall success in OSRS.

Low-Level Money-Making Methods

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks and explore some of the best low-level money-making methods for OSRS. These methods are perfect for players who are just starting out, require minimal skill levels, and can provide a steady source of income. Remember, the earnings may not be massive, but they're a great way to learn the game, improve your skills, and earn some starting cash. Let's dive in!

1. Mining Iron Ore

Mining iron ore is a classic and reliable early-game money-making method. It requires a relatively low mining level (level 1), and you can find iron rocks at various locations like the mining guild or the varrock east mine. The beauty of this method is its simplicity. All you need is a pickaxe. If you have the quest 'Dorics Quest' completed, you can use the pickaxe from Doric for free. Otherwise, buy a bronze pickaxe from the Grand Exchange, or if you want to skip the GE, head to a mining shop in Varrock. Simply mine the iron ore, bank it, and sell it on the Grand Exchange. The profit margins are modest, but it provides a steady income, and it is a good way to get familiar with the game. As your mining level grows, you can move on to other ores that offer higher profits. This method also gives you a feel for how to interact with the Grand Exchange, which is crucial for making money in OSRS. So, grab your pickaxe, head to the nearest iron rocks, and start mining. The main reason this is recommended is it takes no time to set up and start making money in OSRS.

2. Fishing and Cooking Shrimp/Sardines

Another very accessible method is fishing and cooking shrimp or sardines. To get started, you'll need a small fishing net (available from various shops). Fish for shrimp at locations near the coast, such as Lumbridge or Draynor Village. Once you have a stack of shrimp, cook them on a fire to prevent them from burning. Cooking gives you Cooking XP and helps you make a profit. Sardines are a bit more profitable and easier to cook, as they have a higher base burn rate and are readily available from fishing spots like the one near Karamja. You'll need to reach level 25 Cooking for the best results to not burn the fish. You can then sell the cooked fish on the Grand Exchange. This method is great because it requires low levels in Fishing and Cooking, is relatively safe, and teaches you the basics of using multiple skills to make money. It's also a great way to relax and take a break from more intense activities. This simple method not only gives you a basic understanding of OSRS's economic and skill system but also provides a means of generating early income, making it ideal for new players.

3. Collecting and Selling Herbs

This method is a bit more involved, but it can be quite profitable. Start by collecting herbs like Guam, Marrentill, and Tarromin from various locations. The best locations are where you can find multiple herbs within a short time frame, as well as being close to a bank. Run around and collect herbs, and then sell them. To boost your income, you could also make unfinished potions. This allows you to earn more money, but requires a higher Herblore level. Even if you start just collecting and selling the herbs, you will start earning money. This is a bit more active, as you will need to constantly run around the map. However, you will learn the map and improve your skills. Plus, you will develop the Herblore skill, which is essential to making potions, which are required for later-game content.

Reddit and Community Resources

OSRS is a game with a massive and active community. Reddit is an excellent place to get information and find out about the best methods for making money. Subreddits like r/OSRS and r/2007scape are treasure troves of information. You can often find detailed guides, discussions, and real-time updates on profitable methods. One of the best things about Reddit is that it gives you current information, so you know exactly what to do. Reddit is an important aspect of OSRS, and gives you up-to-date information, news, and advice. You can also ask questions. The community is generally very helpful, and there are many experienced players willing to offer advice. This can be invaluable if you're unsure about a particular method or need help understanding game mechanics. Make sure to do some research, ask questions, and be respectful of other players, and you'll find the OSRS community a great resource for improving your money-making skills.

Finding Updated Information

The most important use of Reddit for money making is getting the latest updates. The economy in OSRS is dynamic, and methods that work one day might not the next. Because Reddit gives information from various players, you can get current information about the most profitable methods. People often share their experiences, and you'll get insights into what's currently working and what's not. Look for threads discussing recent updates, price changes, and new strategies. Also, keep an eye on community-made guides and spreadsheets that often provide detailed breakdowns of various methods, including profit margins, required skills, and optimal routes. Some subreddits have dedicated threads for money-making discussions, allowing you to ask questions and get real-time advice from experienced players. Utilizing these resources effectively will help you stay informed and make the most of your money-making efforts.

Utilizing the Community for Strategies

Besides getting up-to-date information, Reddit and the wider OSRS community can offer some strategies that can enhance your money-making skills. Players often share tips and tricks that help you make more money. You'll find a wealth of information on efficient strategies, such as optimal routes for gathering resources, the best times to buy and sell items on the Grand Exchange, and even advanced techniques for maximizing profits. Many OSRS players share their own experiences and the methods they use, so you can learn from their successes and mistakes. Another benefit of the community is that there are many different viewpoints. Everyone has different experiences, and you can learn how different types of players approach the game. This will give you a better understanding of how the game's economy works and enable you to fine-tune your money-making strategies to match your play style. Furthermore, the community is great for discovering hidden gems and unique methods that you might not find through other means. Players often experiment with unconventional strategies, and the community is quick to share and discuss these techniques. Whether you are looking for new information, tips and tricks, or want to interact with the OSRS community, Reddit and other sources are a great tool for making money in OSRS.

Advanced Tips and Techniques

Alright, let’s take things up a notch and explore some more advanced tips that will help you maximize your earnings in OSRS. While the methods discussed earlier are perfect for beginners, these advanced techniques will give you a leg up, ensuring that you're making the most of your time and effort. Here are some of the most advanced tips and techniques.

Optimize Bank and Inventory Management

One of the most crucial elements of making more money is to improve your efficiency, and part of this is improving your bank and inventory management skills. Efficiency is key to success in OSRS. Think about your routes and how often you need to bank, and try to find the fastest path between your resource gathering location and the bank. Additionally, you should be making sure you're carrying the right items and gear. This includes the best pickaxe for mining, or the best fishing rod. Also, using a bank is the most efficient way to store your items, especially if you have a lot of items. It allows you to maximize your inventory space and ensures you don't lose any valuable resources. Proper management minimizes the time spent banking, allowing you to spend more time gathering resources, which in turn leads to more profit. By mastering these skills, you'll be well on your way to becoming a money-making master in OSRS.

Understanding Grand Exchange Dynamics

The Grand Exchange (GE) is your best friend when it comes to making money, and understanding how it works is key to making money in OSRS. The GE is where players can buy and sell items, and the key to being successful is understanding how it works. You should also understand how the market fluctuates, as this information allows you to buy low and sell high. One of the best skills to learn is to understand the basic trends in the market. This includes understanding how prices change over time, and knowing when to buy and sell. Use the GE to your advantage by setting up buy and sell limits to ensure you never have to be at the computer when you are making money. When you spend time learning about the GE, you'll greatly improve your profit margins and become a more effective money-maker.

Consider Questing for Early Money Making

One of the best money-making methods that is often overlooked is completing quests. Many quests give you a good amount of money, and you can also learn new skills. Quests not only offer immediate rewards but also unlock access to better money-making opportunities down the line. For example, completing the 'Waterfall Quest' will not only provide valuable experience but also unlock access to a new area that is great for training combat and generating income. Some quests provide access to areas with more resources or allow you to use methods with less competition. This is useful for many reasons, including getting past the early-game grind. Completing quests also gives you the chance to experiment with other areas of the game, like skilling, combat, and more. When you complete quests, you not only make money, but also become more well-rounded players. Therefore, completing quests can open up many more money-making methods, as well as helping you gain levels in various skills.

Conclusion

Making money in OSRS can seem a bit difficult when you start, but with a bit of dedication and the right methods, you'll be on your way to earning gold in no time. Low-level money-making is a great way to start out in the game, learn the ropes, and build your bankroll. Remember to be patient, stay safe, and always look for ways to improve your efficiency. As you gain more experience, you can explore more advanced methods and unlock even greater profit potential. Use the Reddit community and other resources to stay informed, and always be on the lookout for new strategies and opportunities. With a bit of hard work and the right approach, you'll be able to build a thriving bank account and enjoy all that OSRS has to offer. So go out there, start earning, and have fun! Happy grinding, and may your adventures be filled with riches and success!