How To Make Money In GTA 5 Story Mode?

Figuring out how to make money in GTA 5 story mode isn’t just about doing missions. It’s about maximizing opportunities. If you play smart, you can walk away with hundreds of millions. 

This blog breaks down the most efficient money-making strategies across all three protagonists, Franklin, Michael, and Trevor.

#1 Assassination Missions (Stock Market Goldmine)

Lester’s assassination missions are the single most powerful way to stack cash. You unlock them with Franklin, but before doing anything, finish the final heist first. That way, you’ll have maximum cash on all characters.

Here’s how it works. Lester gives you a target tied to a corporation. Before taking the hit, invest in the rival company’s stock. For example, in the "Hotel Assassination," buy Betta Pharmaceuticals, then finish the job. Watch the stock spike, sell high, and repeat this for each hit.

Complete all five missions: Hotel, Multi-Target, Vice, Bus, and Construction. Do your research and invest using all three characters. Wait for the stocks to peak. That’s your goldmine and it’s one of the fastest ways to make money in GTA 5. And, it takes little to no effort overall.

#2 Major Heists

Heists in GTA 5 story mode are no joke. They take planning, crew selection, and preparation. But they pay off. "The Big Score" alone can net each character $41 million if done right.

Always pick skilled crew members. Cheap labor leads to costly mistakes. Try to pick the Obvious approach for the final job. It has a higher payout potential.

Replay heists if needed. You can test different crews and strategies to find the highest return. Just don’t rush them. Each one builds your bankroll significantly.

Here are some key heists and average payouts:

• Jewel Store Job: $1.2M (Michael)
• Paleto Score: $464K (split)
• Bureau Raid: $240K (Franklin)
• The Big Score: $41M each (if optimized)

#3 Random Encounters For Extra Cash

As you roam Los Santos, blue dots will pop up on the map. These are random encounters. Many offer small story beats and fast money.

Some of the best cash-earning encounters include:

• Countryside Robbery
• Deal Gone Wrong
• Drug Shootout

They require minimal effort and reward you with stacks of cash. Always check your minimap when driving around.

#4 Rob Stores and Trucks

Robbing stores can give you quick cash. Walk in, pull a gun, grab the money, and run. Each one adds a few thousand to your wallet.

Want bigger hits? Rob armored trucks. They're riskier but pay better. Use explosives or heavy weapons to crack them open. Always have a getaway plan. Cops will respond fast.

#5 Hidden Treasures

There are 15 hidden packages scattered across the map. These can contain anywhere from $7,000 to $25,000. They’re underwater, on islands, or tucked into corners of the map.

Use a submarine or scuba gear to reach some of the harder spots. It's slow money but adds up fast if you're thorough.

#6 Real Estate Investment

GTA 5 lets you buy properties that generate passive income. The more you spend, the more you earn each week. Some properties earn up to $264,000 weekly.

Look out for:

• McKenzie Field Hangar (Trevor)
• Tequi-la-la (Michael)
• Downtown Cab Co (Franklin)

They also unlock side missions that pay well. Just check your emails and phones regularly.

#7 Win Street Races

Franklin is your best bet for races. His special ability gives you control in tight corners. Win races to stack up cash fast.

You can find races around the map. As you progress, harder ones unlock with higher rewards. Practice driving and you’ll win consistently.

#8 Stop Buying Cars, Steal Them Instead

Buying cars drains cash fast. Why pay when you can steal? Another answer to how to make money in GTA 5 story mode.

Hit the golf club, Vinewood, or any race event. You’ll find sports cars parked and ready. Take them to your garage or sell them at Los Santos Customs.

Avoid spending early game cash on luxuries. Focus on flipping money first.

#9 Complete Main Missions

Story missions reward you with solid money and unlock other income opportunities. Each mission adds to your bank while progressing the storyline.

Also, some missions unlock assassination jobs or side missions. Play through at least the first heist early to unlock better-paying tasks.

#10 Collect Nuclear Waste & Bail Bonds

Trevor gets access to the Sonar Collection Dock. You can find nuclear waste barrels underwater. Each one gives a set cash reward.

Also, work with Maude on bounty missions. Bring targets in alive for bonus pay. These missions mix combat and tracking, adding both action and income.

#11 Bonus - Buy GTA 5 Modded Accounts for PlayStation & Xbox

Want a shortcut to riches? Buy GTA 5 modded accounts for PlayStation & Xbox from DamnModz. These accounts come loaded with cash, ranks, and gear so you can skip grinding.

Here’s what you get:

• Rank 30 with 100M cash: $45
• Rank 120 with 200M cash + Deluxos + outfits: $95
• Fast Run, modded cars, custom gear: $150
• Rank 200 with 7.8 billion cash: $400

These accounts are safe, built using private tools, and come with a lifetime warranty. No bans, no resets.

It’s way better value than buying Shark Cards. For the same price, you get 25x more money, gear, and rare cosmetics. Perfect for players who want everything unlocked from the start.

Before You Start Grinding

To maximize profits, always save Lester’s missions for after the final heist. This gives you more money to invest.

Avoid wasting cash early. Steal vehicles, complete missions, and reinvest every dollar.

Use all three characters. Switch between them to find hidden events, random missions, and side tasks.

Don’t rush the story. Play smart. Let the money snowball.

Conclusion

Now you know how to make money in GTA 5 story mode. From assassinations and heists to random events and investments, every choice you make can lead to a fortune. Play smart, invest wisely, and don’t forget to have fun while stacking millions. Consider DamnModz if you want to buy modded accounts, GTA money, and RP as quickly as possible. All that too at unbeatable prices.