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Side hustles for retirees: Earn extra income while staying active

From online gigs to local services, retirees have more opportunities than ever

Updated:

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By:
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Mark Huffman
Reporter

Mark Huffman has covered consumer issues since 2004, with a special focus on protecting and empowering older adults. A former news correspondent for the Associated Press Radio Network, Westwood One, and ConsumerAffairs, Mark brings decades of journalistic experience to RetirementLiving.com. He is passionate about giving consumers a voice and helping them make informed decisions. Mark has also created educational content, including Senior Scam Alert, a video resource designed to help seniors recognize and avoid fraud. He holds a B.A. from the University of Kentucky and lives with his family in Richmond, Virginia.
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Key Insights

  • Explore online options like freelancing, tutoring, or becoming a virtual assistant.
  • Turn hobbies into income with crafts, photography, or gardening.
  • Stay flexible with local services, ridesharing, or renting out spare space.

Maybe you’re six months into retirement and wake up one morning to discover you’re bored. Or maybe five years into retirement, you discover you need a way to supplement your retirement income. Or maybe, it’s a little of both.

Fortunately, there are plenty of side-hustles for seniors, some requiring a little specialized skill or knowledge and some that don’t. The first step may be to contact your former employer. If they were sorry to see you go, they might like having your back as a part-timer or freelancer.

Here are five other options to put some extra cash in your pocket:

1. Flexible online work

  • Freelancing: Writing, editing, bookkeeping, graphic design, or consulting via platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
  • Online tutoring/teaching: Helping students with school subjects, languages, or test prep. Websites like VIPKid, Wyzant, or Tutor.com are great places to start.
  • Virtual assistant: Handling emails, scheduling, or social media for small businesses or entrepreneurs.

Job search platforms such as Indeed or Zip Recruiter may be helpful in finding opportunities.

2. Local service-based options

  • Pet sitting or dog walking: Easy to fit into your lifestyle and a great way to stay active.
  • Handyman work or odd jobs: Perfect for retirees with handy skills, Apps like TaskRabbit connect you with people who need help.
  • Babysitting or elder companion care: Many families seek trustworthy, reliable caregivers.

3. Hobby-inspired gigs

  • Crafts & handmade goods: Selling on Etsy, local markets, or Facebook Marketplace.
  • Photography: Specializing in family portraits, pets, or stock photos.
  • Gardening or landscaping: Offering small-scale yard work or plant care for neighbors.

4. Driving & Delivery

  • Ridesharing: Driving for Uber or Lyft if you enjoy being on the road.
  • Food & package delivery: Apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Amazon Flex let you choose your hours.

5. Passive & Semi-Passive Options

  • Renting out space: Spare bedrooms (Airbnb) or even storage space (Neighbor.com).
  • Investing in dividend stocks or real estate: For those with some capital who want extra income with less daily work.
  • Online surveys & research panels: Not huge money, but easy pocket change.

The best side hustle balances enjoyment, flexibility, and low stress, since retirement should still feel like freedom.