The term “golden years” is often used to describe retirement.
Retirement is often called the “golden years”—a time for travel, hobbies, and relaxation after decades of hard work. But as someone who has stepped into retirement myself, I quickly realized I still had the desire (and need) to stay busy, purposeful, and even bring in a little extra income.
That’s how I found myself exploring side hustles. Over the years, I worked in operations, IT, and nonprofit service. Now retired, I’ve discovered that blogging is not only a great way to share what I’ve learned—it’s also a flexible side hustle that helps supplement my income. The beauty of blogging is that I can do it from anywhere: at home, in a coffee shop, or even while traveling.
For me, it’s the perfect fit. And for you, retirement could be the perfect time to discover a side hustle of your own. Here are some of the best options I’ve seen retirees succeed in (including my personal favorite).
1. Freelance Writing or Consulting
One of the most popular side hustles for retirees is putting years of experience to work as a freelance writer or consultant.
If you spent your career in healthcare, finance, education, or even construction, chances are there’s a company or publication willing to pay for your insights. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer make it easy to connect with clients. Consulting can often be even more lucrative, especially if you market yourself as a subject-matter expert in your industry.
The best part? Writing and consulting can be done from home, at your own pace, and even while you’re traveling.? Freelancing and consulting can be done entirely from home—or while traveling. It’s flexible, rewarding, and a great way to keep your skills sharp.
2. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting can be one of the most enjoyable and flexible side hustles for retirees. Caring for dogs, cats, or even exotic pets offers daily companionship and plenty of joyful interaction, making it feel more like playtime than work. Platforms like Rover, Wag!, and Care.com make it easy to connect with pet owners who need someone trustworthy to walk, feed, or watch their furry friends while they’re away.
Many retirees find pet sitting especially rewarding because it provides both social interaction and a sense of purpose. Beyond the financial benefits, spending time with animals has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and even encourage light physical activity during walks or play sessions. With flexible hours that can fit around personal schedules, pet sitting allows retirees to enjoy the company of animals, meet new people, and earn extra income—all without the pressure of a traditional job.
3. Handyman Services and Home Projects
I’ve always enjoyed fixing things, and many retirees find that their practical skills can easily be turned into a steady side income. Handyman services—whether it’s painting, small home repairs, furniture assembly, or even pressure washing—are consistently in demand, as homeowners often need help with tasks they can’t tackle themselves. For retirees who prefer being active and hands-on rather than sitting behind a computer, this type of work can be especially satisfying.
Not only does offering handyman services provide supplemental income, but it also allows you to stay physically engaged and use your expertise in meaningful ways. Word-of-mouth referrals and local online platforms like TaskRabbit or Nextdoor make it easier to find clients, while the flexibility of choosing your projects and schedule ensures it fits comfortably into retirement life. For those who take pride in solving problems and seeing tangible results, turning your handy skills into a side hustle can be both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.
4. Selling Crafts or Antiques Online
Do you have a hobby like woodworking, knitting, or collecting antiques? Selling your creations or collectibles online can be a rewarding way to turn your passions into profit. Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and even Facebook Marketplace make it easier than ever to reach buyers who appreciate handmade goods, unique finds, or vintage treasures. For many retirees, this can be more than just a side hustle—it’s a way to stay engaged in activities they love while earning extra income.
Many retirees already have items tucked away in storage or around the house that could generate surprising returns. From handmade crafts and art pieces to rare collectibles, these items often have more value than expected when marketed online. Beyond the financial benefits, selling hobbies or collections can provide a sense of purpose, creativity, and connection with a community of like-minded enthusiasts. For retirees looking for flexibility and enjoyment, turning a hobby into an online business can be both fun and lucrative.
5. Tutoring or Teaching Online
Retirement doesn’t mean you have to stop learning—or sharing your knowledge with others. Many retirees find tutoring to be a highly rewarding way to stay mentally active while earning extra income. Whether you have a formal teaching background or simply a passion for a subject, online tutoring allows you to connect with students from around the globe, helping them achieve their academic goals. Platforms like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, and Wyzant make it easy to find students in need of support in subjects ranging from math and science to languages and test prep.
Beyond the financial benefits, tutoring offers intellectual stimulation and a sense of purpose. Explaining concepts, guiding students through challenges, and celebrating their progress can be deeply satisfying. For retirees, this type of work provides a flexible schedule, the opportunity to continue learning, and the chance to make a real impact on someone else’s life—all from the comfort of home.
6. Driving or Delivery Services
If you enjoy meeting new people, exploring your city, or simply spending time on the road, driving for services like Uber, Lyft, or delivering for DoorDash and Postmates can be an ideal side hustle for retirees. One of the biggest advantages is flexibility—you can choose your own hours, work as much or as little as you like, and easily fit shifts around personal plans, hobbies, or travel. Beyond the extra income, these jobs offer the chance to stay active, see different parts of your community, and interact with a variety of people, which can make daily life more engaging. For retirees looking for a balance between independence and supplemental earnings, ridesharing or delivery services can provide both financial and social benefits without the commitment of a traditional job.
7. Blogging and Content Creation (My Side Hustle)
This is the one closest to my heart. After retirement, I wanted something meaningful, creative, and flexible. Blogging checked all the boxes.
It started as a way to share what I’ve learned over the years—about finance, home care, and even mission work—and it slowly turned into a side hustle that pays me back. What I love most about blogging is that it works around the clock. Articles I write today continue to bring in traffic (and income) months or even years later.
I can write from home, while traveling, or in a quiet café. It doesn’t feel like work—it feels like sharing stories and advice, and that’s why it’s the perfect side hustle for me.
If you’re retired and enjoy writing or teaching others, I highly recommend giving blogging a try. It might take a little time to grow, but the rewards are worth it.
8. House Sitting and Vacation Rentals
House-sitting is another flexible and appealing option that many retirees love, especially those who enjoy a change of scenery or traveling without the cost of accommodations. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters and HouseCarers make it easy to connect with homeowners who need trustworthy individuals to care for their property, pets, and plants while they’re away. This type of work can be especially rewarding for retirees who appreciate quiet, low-stress responsibilities and the opportunity to explore new neighborhoods or regions.
For retirees who own a second property, renting it out on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can generate a steady stream of supplemental income. Beyond the financial benefits, hosting guests can also provide social interaction and the satisfaction of sharing your home and local community with others. Both house-sitting and short-term rentals offer flexibility, autonomy, and an enjoyable way to stay active and engaged during retirement.
9. Seasonal or Part-Time Work During Retirement
Some retirees find that part-time work provides a valuable sense of structure and purpose in their daily lives. Whether it’s managing a cart at a local golf course, assisting customers at a garden center, or helping out during tax season, these roles can be both fulfilling and flexible. Beyond the financial benefits of earning extra income, part-time jobs offer meaningful social interaction, keeping retirees engaged with their community and maintaining a routine. For many, this combination of mental stimulation, social connection, and financial support makes part-time work an ideal way to stay active and involved during retirement years.
Final Thoughts on Retirement
Retirement doesn’t mean slowing down—it’s simply the start of a new chapter. For me, that chapter includes blogging, which gives me purpose, creativity, and income I can earn from anywhere.
For you, it might mean freelancing, pet sitting, teaching, or even starting a small handyman business. The beauty of retirement is the freedom to choose something you truly enjoy.
So, if you’re retired and asking yourself “What’s next?”, consider trying a side hustle. It’s not just about the money—it’s about staying active, connected, and fulfilled.
👉 And here’s some good news: this post is just the beginning. In the coming weeks, we’ll be expanding on each of these side hustles in future blog posts—showing you step-by-step how to get started, what tools you’ll need, and how much you can realistically expect to earn. Be sure to check back so you don’t miss out.
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