Side Hustles for Retirees: Turn Your Experience and Passions into Extra Income

Retirement doesn’t always mean you’re ready to hang up your hat for good. Whether it’s the rising cost of living, a curveball like unexpected medical bills, or the desire to fund that long-awaited trip to Italy—many retirees find themselves dipping their toes back into the earning pool.

But here’s the good news: side hustles in retirement aren’t just about the money.

They’re about purpose, mental sharpness, social connection, and maybe even turning a lifelong passion into a source of income. And the best part? You call the shots. Your time, your terms.

Let’s explore the best side hustle ideas for retirees—whether you’re looking to monetize your knowledge, skills, or creative hobbies.

Knowledge-Based Income: Share What You Know

If you spent decades building up career expertise, why not turn that into a flexible income stream?

1. Consulting

Retired professionals—your experience is gold. Offer strategic advice to startups, nonprofits, or small businesses in your old industry.

• Best for: Former executives, HR professionals, marketers, and finance pros

• Platforms: Clarity.fm, Upwork, your own LinkedIn network

• Perks: High pay potential, flexible schedule

2. Tutoring & Teaching

If you’ve got a knack for explaining things clearly, share your knowledge with students of all ages—online or in person.

• Subjects: Academics (math, English, test prep), music, art, computer skills

• Platforms: Wyzant, Tutor.com, Outschool

• Income potential: $15–$50 per hour

3. Create Online Courses

Package what you know into a course once—and sell it again and again.

• Platforms: Teachable, Udemy, Thinkific

• Ideas: Excel for beginners, birdwatching 101, retirement planning basics

• Bonus: Passive income potential

4. Write & Sell eBooks

Got advice, a how-to process, or life stories to share? eBooks are a great way to earn while you sleep.

• Tools: Kindle Direct Publishing (Amazon), Draft2Digital

• Best for: Niche how-to guides, personal memoirs, or expertise in a specific field

5. Public Speaking & Workshops

If you love teaching and don’t mind being in front of a crowd, consider hosting community workshops or speaking at local events.

• Where: Libraries, colleges, senior centers, conferences

• Bonus: Repurpose your content for a course or eBook later

6. Freelance Writing or Ghostwriting

You can write articles, newsletters, or even books—for others or yourself.

• Platforms: Contently, Freelancer.com, LinkedIn

• Topics: Stick with what you know—it’s faster and more authentic

7. Podcasting or YouTube

Tell stories, teach lessons, or offer commentary on topics you love.

• Monetization: Ads, sponsorships, affiliate products, memberships

• Platforms: YouTube, Spotify, Patreon

Passion-Based Gigs: Turn Hobbies into Hustles

Not all side hustles need to feel like work. These are perfect for retirees looking to have fun, stay active, and maybe make a little cash on the side.

8. Freelancing in Creative Fields

Writers, designers, project managers—there’s a place for you online.

• Platforms: Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer

• Best for: Those with professional creative experience

• Perks: Set your own rates, work from home

9. Crafting & Selling Handmade or Vintage Items

From handmade jewelry to vintage collectibles—platforms like Etsy and eBay are a treasure trove for creative retirees.

• Bonus: You get to create, curate, and make money while doing something you love

• Heads up: You’ll need to manage inventory and shipping

10. Pet Sitting & Dog Walking

Senior couple, dog walk and nature park road during exercise, walking and leisure during a stroll through the woods. Old man and woman being active for energy and living healthy with a pet outside

For animal lovers, apps like Rover and Wag let you earn money just by hanging out with pets.

• Income: $15–$30 per walk or visit

• Perks: Great exercise, flexible hours, and unlimited puppy cuddles

11. Rent Out Your Extra Space

If you have a spare room or vacation property, list it on Airbnb or VRBO.

• Bonus: Passive income and the chance to meet people from around the world

• Effort: Light cleaning, occasional guest interactions

12. Drive or Deliver

Stay active and earn cash through Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, or Instacart.

• Income: Around $15–$30/hour

• Best for: Retirees who enjoy driving and have a reliable vehicle

13. Gardening & Landscaping

Got a green thumb? Offer services in your neighborhood for lawn care, flower beds, or vegetable gardens.

• Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts

• Perks: Physical activity, seasonal demand

14. Mystery Shopping

Evaluate businesses while shopping or dining out—and get paid for it.

• Bonus: Free meals or products

• Watch out: Stick to reputable mystery shopping companies

Getting Started

Starting a side hustle in retirement doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to ease in:

1. Pick something you enjoy—work should feel fun in retirement

2. Decide how much time you want to spend

3. Choose a platform—and just start, even if it’s not perfect

4. Be consistent—even 1 hour/day adds up

5. Reach out for help if you want to make it part of your overall retirement plan

Let’s Make Your Retirement Work for You

Whether you’re after a creative outlet, some extra cushion in your savings, or a chance to share your life’s wisdom—there’s a side hustle out there with your name on it.

Want help exploring your options or how a side hustle fits into your bigger retirement plan?
Let’s chat. The team at Iowa Retirement Benefits & Solutions is here to help guide your journey.

Schedule a free and confidential strategy discussion today!

Email us at info@iowaretirementsolutions.com
Call us at 319-423-3332
Click here to schedule your free consultation.

Investment advisory services are offered through Fusion Capital Management, an SEC registered investment advisor. The firm only transacts business in states where it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. SEC registration is not an endorsement of the firm by the commission and does not mean that the advisor has attained a specific level of skill or ability. All investment strategies have the potential for profit or loss.