Have you recently retired? If so, it’s likely that you’re starting to get a bit concerned about your finances, because traditionally, retirement involves parting ways with your salary.
Here are some jobs that you can start today to help you earn more cash throughout your retirement.
Freelance Writing
If you enjoy writing, freelance gigs are an excellent way to earn some extra money while working from home and keeping your brain active. Businesses, blogs, and just about any brand are always looking for writers to create content, edit articles, or proofread documents.
The hours are flexible, and you can take on as much or as little work as you want–what’s not to like about that?
Tutoring
There are few more fulfilling jobs for retirees than tutoring, as it involves helping students with their studies, which is both rewarding and lucrative. You can tutor in person or online, depending on what’s more convenient for you. General subjects like math, science, and reading are always going to be in demand, but feel free to focus on specialized areas, too.
Virtual Assistant
Any retiree who is organized and tech-savvy should consider picking up some work as a virtual assistant. What does that mean? Well, virtual assistants are much like the personal assistants of the past, except their work is completely conducted online.
You’ll help businesses and entrepreneurs with tasks like email management, scheduling, and customer service, enabling you to work from anywhere and, more often than not, on flexible hours. Give it a go, and we’re sure you’ll love it.
Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Famously, animal lovers can make money doing what they enjoy most–pet sitting and walking dogs. Apps like Rover or local word-of-mouth can connect you with local clients in need of reliable care for their pets. Best of all, you can choose how many clients to take on, making it a flexible option.
Rideshare Driving
Another job you can start now if you’re retired and need extra cash in the bank is driving for rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. As with most jobs on this list, it’s a flexible hustle that lets you set your own schedule. Sure, you’ll need a reliable vehicle and a good driving record, but beyond that, getting started is relatively simple.
Selling Handmade Goods
Whether it’s knitting, ceramics, jewelry, or any other arty craft, if you have a knack for creativity, selling handmade goods online or at local markets can turn your hobby into a business. These days, platforms like Etsy make it easier than ever to set up a shop and reach customers!
Consulting
As a senior, your years of professional experience are likely going to be highly valuable to businesses or individuals in need of guidance, so consider starting a consulting firm. It will allow you to share your expertise on your life’s work, whether that concerns marketing, finance, business, or anything else.
You’ll be shocked at how lucrative it can be, and this type of work is often project-based, giving you the flexibility to take on jobs when it suits you. Overall, it’s a great way to stay connected to your field while earning a substantial income.
Babysitting
Contrary to popular belief, babysitting isn’t just for teenagers. In fact, many families prefer having a reliable, experienced adult to watch their kids. Depending on what you’re looking for, this job could range from an occasional date-night sitting to regular after-school care. Either way, it’s a flexible way to earn money while spending time with children, and you can usually find opportunities through local networks, so it’s worth keeping in mind.
Retail Work
Nowadays, part-time retail jobs are a popular choice for retirees looking for extra income, with younger workforces moving over to more technical roles. You could work in a bookstore, a clothing shop, or your local grocery store–choose somewhere where you genuinely enjoy being, and it could make for a really nice retirement job.
House Sitting
Even more relaxed than babysitting is babysitting, a low-stress job that’s perfect for retirees. All you’ll have to do is keep someone’s home safe and perhaps handle some small tasks from time to time, such as watering plants or collecting mail. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters can help you find opportunities, and you can choose jobs that fit your schedule, which is ideal for retirement.
Gardening Services
If you enjoy working outdoors, offering gardening services can be a seriously rewarding way to earn extra income. Tasks like weeding, planting, or mowing lawns are always in demand, especially from those who need extra help. You can advertise locally or through community groups, and the work can be tailored to your physical capabilities and schedule.
Selling on eBay or Facebook Marketplace
Any retiree who has unused items around the house and needs a declutter should consider selling such items online to bring in some quick cash. In particular, platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace are great for reaching buyers. This could consist of furniture, collectibles, clothes, or any other useful item, and once you get the hang of it, you might even start flipping items for extra income!
Event Staff
Working as a member of staff for events can be an exciting way to make money. Roles like being a ticket taker, usher, or concession worker are often needed at concerts, sports games, and festivals, and older employees are often favored for their work ethics!
Airbnb Hosting
If you have extra space in your home, there aren’t many side hustles that are more lucrative than Airbnb hosting. As you can probably imagine, renting out your spare room can generate a steady and lucrative income.
Don’t panic, because you’ll have full control over setting your availability, pricing, and house rules. Trust us–it doesn’t have to require much time or effort, either, especially if you enjoy meeting new people and sharing your space.
Fitness Instructor
Just because you’re getting old doesn’t mean that you’re no longer useful when it comes to the world of fitness. If you’re active and enjoy helping others, or even if you simply have a lot of knowledge when it comes to fitness, becoming a part-time fitness instructor could be very rewarding for you. Many gyms and community centers offer certification programs for activities like yoga, pilates, or senior fitness classes, and the hourly pay can be pretty hefty.
Local Tour Guide
Many retirees love sharing their knowledge about their hometowns or favorite places, as it’s a fun way to make money. At the end of the day, tourists love local insights, and you can create walking tours or themed experiences that showcase your expertise. You don’t necessarily have to be a history buff–food, art, music, or other topics could make your tour themes stand out!
Substitute Teaching
If private tuition isn’t your cup of tea but you have teaching experience or enjoy working with kids, consider substitute teaching instead, a more flexible option. Schools often need reliable substitutes, and the hours can fit into your schedule, so give them a call and put yourself out there.
Customer Service Representative
Some retirees like the idea of working in retail part-time, but don’t want the hassle of having an in-person job. Thankfully, many companies hire remote customer service reps to handle inquiries and support. These kinds of jobs typically require basic computer skills and good communication, making them accessible for retirees. Best of all, working from home allows you to create a comfortable work environment while earning extra cash.
Handyman Services
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning handyman services. Yes, if you’re good at fixing things, offering handyman services can be a profitable gig, especially when it comes to tasks like repairing the furniture, plumbing, painting, or installing light fixtures are always in demand.
You can take on as many projects as you want, making it a flexible way to use your skills and bring in extra income, so don’t overlook it!