I haven't been long in the writing game - two years hobbying is nothing compared to the full timers - what I have learned is that writing does not offer a stable source of income - oftentimes the return on investment (time, effort etc) is disappointing

but yes, for those not living in high cost areas, it can be beneficial - however, have you considered the tax implications? That is something not often talked about because I have heard that the taxes can be atrocious