Once it's time to retire, many people wonder how they're going to spend their time. One smart money move for seniors involves picking up a part-time job. It can help bring in money, but also help you avoid boredom as you transition into retirement life.
Here's a look at six great side jobs to consider in retirement that won't take a huge time commitment or add lots of stress to your life as a retiree.
All pay information is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1 <p>Clients who complete the program and settle all debts typically save around 45% before fees or 20% including fees over 24–48 months, based on enrolled debts. “Debt-free” applies only to enrolled credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Not mortgages, car loans, or other debts. Average program completion time is 24–48 months; not all debts are eligible, and results vary as not all clients complete the program due to factors like insufficient savings. We do not guarantee specific debt reductions or timelines, nor do we assume debt, make payments to creditors, or offer legal, tax, bankruptcy, or credit repair services. Consult a tax professional or attorney as needed. Services are not available in all states. Participation may adversely affect your credit rating or score. Nonpayment of debt may result in increased finance and other charges, collection efforts, or litigation. Read all program materials before enrolling. National Debt Relief’s fees are based on a percentage of enrolled debt. All communications may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance. In certain states, additional disclosures and licensing apply. ©️ 2009–2025 National Debt Relief LLC. National Debt Relief (NMLS #1250950, CA CFL Lic. No. 60DBO-70443) is located at 180 Maiden Lane, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10038. All rights reserved. <b><a href="https://www.nationaldebtrelief.com/licenses/">Click here</a></b> for additional state-specific disclosures and licensing information.</p>
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
Tutor
Median pay: $23.36 per hour
Want to use some of your time in retirement to help educate others? Consider taking on a part-time tutoring gig. You can use your expertise in certain subjects to help teach others, all while earning a few extra bucks.
Technology today makes it possible to be a tutor without even leaving your home.
Home health aide
Median pay: $16.05 per hour
While this may seem like a good job for someone who already had a career in nursing, being a home health aide can be a great side job for lots of retirees. In this role, you'd help people with daily living activities.
As a home health aide, you could potentially set your own hours and have the joy of meeting and helping people.
Sales associate
Median pay: $17.64 per hour
You may find lots of flexibility if you work as a sales associate in retirement. You can set hours that work for you and secure a position at a retail location you enjoy. Being a sales associate can help you meet new people and stay active.
Best of all, there's no specific educational background required for most sales associate jobs, so you don't have to have a degree to start working in one of these positions.
- 18-29
- 30-39
- 40-49
- 50-59
- 60-69
- 70-79
- 80+
Library clerk
Median pay: $17.29 per hour
The slow-paced and quiet world of the library may be appealing for a side job as a retiree, where you'll likely be tasked with helping those who visit the library to find materials and learn about the world around them.
These positions may be available at your town library or nearby educational institutions, and you can likely secure this job without any specific educational background.
Landscaper
Median pay: $19.13 per hour
The great outdoors may be calling your name. Landscape and grounds positions can be excellent side jobs if you're retired and want to do some hands-on work. In addition to being outside and meeting new people, you may find satisfaction from completing landscaping projects.
No experience, no problem! You can learn most of what you need to know on the job.
Writer
Median pay: $42.11
The job of a writer is another side gig you can secure without leaving your home, since there are many remote positions out there.
Your background in life and education may give you a unique perspective to bring to the role of a writer, which can help you determine what kind of position to take. You may even find work writing for popular websites and publications for retirees.
Bottom line
Retirement may be a great time to find a side hustle. You could spend a few hours a week or more doing a side job you enjoy, while also meeting new people and learning new skills.
One starting place may be to think about locations you enjoy visiting and then head in to check them out. While you're there, you can even talk to current employees to see if the vibe matches what you're looking for, and submit an application directly to the manager if you think it will be a good fit.
Subscribe Today
Learn how to make an extra $200
Get vetted side hustles and proven ways to earn extra cash sent to your inbox.