Getting started in GTA Online can be overwhelming, especially if you’re aiming to make money legitimately. Forget the exploits and cheats; this guide focuses on practical strategies to build your wealth in Los Santos without resorting to shady tactics. We’ll cover essential tips, smart investments, and must-have vehicles to boost your earnings.
Early Game Strategies: Building a Foundation
Starting with little to nothing? These tips will help you gain a foothold in the GTA economy:
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Stock Up on Snacks: Don’t underestimate the power of snacks! They provide crucial health regeneration during firefights. Purchase them from any convenience store and utilize them strategically behind cover to skip the eating animation.
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Weapon Access Early On: Bypass level restrictions on weapons by visiting other players’ properties like yachts, facilities, bunkers, or nightclub basements. You might find powerful weapons you wouldn’t normally have access to at your current level.
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The Free Elegy RH8: Link your Rockstar Social Club account to GTA Online and receive a free Elegy RH8 sports car. Alternatively, steal a car and customize it at Los Santos Customs to make it your own.
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Acquire a Boat: Early access to a boat can significantly aid in completing certain missions and escaping tricky situations.
alt text: A speedboat on the water in GTA Online
Smart Investments: Spending Wisely
Knowing where to invest your hard-earned cash is crucial for long-term success:
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Avoid Unnecessary Warstock Purchases: Resist the temptation to buy expensive vehicles from Warstock Cache & Carry early on. Focus on building your income first, then invest in vehicles that will further enhance your money-making potential.
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Don’t Be a Griefer: Attacking other players and destroying their cargo offers minimal rewards and invites retaliation. Focus on cooperative gameplay and building a positive reputation.
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Warehouse Strategy: Owning two large warehouses is sufficient for efficient sourcing and selling. More than two provides diminishing returns due to cooldown timers.
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Skip the Hangar and Nightclub Initially: The hangar requires a team for efficient supply missions, and the nightclub needs five active businesses to be profitable. Prioritize other businesses first.
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Avoid Upgrading the Paleto Bay Bunker: This starter pack bunker is poorly located for selling and upgrades are lost if you switch bunkers later.
Level Up Your Grind: Essential Vehicles and Gear
While not mandatory, these items can significantly expedite your money-making journey:
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Helpful Gear: Invest in a scuba suit for faster swimming, night vision goggles for improved visibility, and thermal goggles for spotting enemies.
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Vehicle Investments: The Armored Kuruma, Cargobob, Buzzard Attack Chopper, MOC Cab, Insurgent Pick-Up Custom, and Oppressor Mk II offer significant advantages for various missions and businesses. The Terrorbyte allows you to launch business missions remotely and provides access to lucrative client jobs.
alt text: The Cargobob carrying a car in GTA Online
Making Friends and Finding a Crew
GTA Online is more fun and profitable with friends. Team up to complete heists, run businesses, and protect each other from griefers. Joining a crew can connect you with like-minded players. 
alt text: A group of GTA Online players standing together
By following these tips and strategies, you can build a legitimate fortune in GTA Online. Remember to prioritize smart investments, avoid unnecessary expenses, and utilize helpful tools and vehicles to maximize your earning potential.
