They are not the same thing.
Passive income is making money in your sleep – from a Web site, property, shares, your business, whatever. It might take marketing effort – especially initially – but most of it is “set and forget”.
Recurring income is doing what you love and getting paid for it automatically (by subscription, retainer and the like). It’s doing what you would do even if you weren’t being paid for it. It’s the stuff you do where only four hours a week feels like work (thanks, Tim Ferriss).
I get passive income from real estate investments. I don’t have anything against my property tenants, but I don’t enjoy spending time with them. In fact, I employ property managers, tradespeople and an accountant to stay at arm’s length from these investments.
On the other hand, I get recurring income from my membership site, and love hanging out with these members.
Most people think they want more passive income, but would be happier and more fulfilled with more recurring income.
