With each passing year, more Americans are opting to stay in the workforce post-retirement age—whether by choice or financial necessity. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 8.2% of the civilian labor force was over age 75 in 2022. By 2032, it could be as high as 9.9%.

But working into retirement isn’t necessarily negative. In fact, many retirees find that part-time employment offers a perfect balance of added financial security and staying active and engaged with a routine. 

Whether you’re looking to supplement your retirement income, pursue a passion, or simply stay connected with the world, there’s a wide array of part-time job opportunities tailored for this season of life. In this article, we’ll explore 19 potential part-time jobs for retirees that provide fulfilling ways to spend your time and earn additional income.

Why Work in Retirement?

Before diving into those retiree job ideas, let’s briefly consider why working in retirement can be a valuable choice:

• Financial stability: A 2023 Paychex survey found that one in six retirees consider returning to work; 55% cite needing money as the reason why, and 32% cite the fear of outliving their savings. Retirement savings may not always cover the expenses you have in order to enjoy or thrive in your golden years. Part-time work can provide an additional income stream to support your lifestyle. (Note: There are special rules for working and collecting Social Security benefits if you have not reached full retirement age. Please consult a financial professional to better understand your unique circumstances.)

• Mental stimulation: In the same Paychex survey, 52% of respondents noted boredom as the reason they wanted to return to work. Staying mentally active is crucial for overall well-being. A part-time job can challenge your mind, boost your self-esteem, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

• Social interaction: Loneliness was cited by 43% of the Paychex respondents, with 34% citing the need for more social interaction. Workplaces are hubs for this. A part-time job allows you to connect with colleagues, make new friends, and maintain a sense of belonging.

• Pursue passions: Retirement is the perfect time to explore your interests, including ways to profit from them. Many part-time jobs align with hobbies or passions, making work feel less like a chore.

19 Best Part-Time Jobs for Retirees

1. Retail Sales Associate
2. Administrative Assistant
3. Consultant
4. Bookkeeper
5. Tutor or Instructor
6. Tour Guide
7. Dog Walker
8. Freelance Writer or Blogger
9. Gardener or Landscaper
10. Event Planner
11. Fitness Instructor
12. Library Assistant
13. Nonprofit Worker
14. Home Health Aide
15. Personal Shopper
16. Virtual Assistant
17. Museum Docent
18. Driver 
19. Tax Preparer

1. Retail Sales Associate

As sales associates, retirees have the opportunity to interact with customers, share their wisdom, and stay up to date on the latest products. Additionally, the flexible hours in the retail sector can accommodate retirees’ schedules, allowing them to strike a balance between work and leisure.

This part-time gig not only offers financial stability but also the chance to stay active, remain socially connected, and contribute to a busy work environment.

2. Administrative Assistant

Becoming an administrative assistant in retirement is a fantastic part-time job option. These jobs often involve tasks like data entry, scheduling, and customer service, which can be done in a comfortable office setting. 

You’ve likely got years of organizational skills under your belt and a knack for keeping things in order. Why not monetize that? If you’re a retiree looking for a way to stay active, engaged, and earn a little extra—without being on your feet all day—this part-time job might be just what you need.

3. Consultant

Leverage your years of expertise in a specific field by offering consultancy services. Whether it’s in your previous career or a hobby, your knowledge can be valuable to businesses and individuals. All that’s needed is a small investment of time, resources, and marketing to be successful. Plus, the best part is you get to set your own hours and work from wherever you choose.

4. Bookkeeper

If you have a knack for numbers, becoming a part-time bookkeeper is a smart part-time job option. Many small businesses and even entrepreneurs need help with their finances and are willing to hire experienced bookkeepers.

This is a role that doesn’t demand too much physical exertion but keeps the mind sharp. You can take a position in a firm or work remotely from home.

5. Tutor or Instructor

Doubling as a great summer job for teachers, retired educators or professionals can become tutors or instructors. You could tutor students in a specific subject—math, English, history—or teach a skill like painting or playing a musical instrument.

Becoming a tutor can be a fulfilling part-time job for retirees. It’s a chance to pass on the knowledge you’ve accumulated over the years to the younger generation, which can be incredibly rewarding. Plus, as an added bonus, teaching others keeps you learning, too.

6. Tour Guide

Have a long history in your hometown? Maybe you live in a tourist-friendly hotspot. For retirees looking for an engaging part-time job, being a tour guide can be a fun option. Imagine sharing your city’s hidden gems and local culture with eager visitors, bringing history to life. 

As a retiree, you can bring a depth of knowledge and a personal touch that can make tours extra special. Plus, the physical activity of walking around is a great way to stay fit—and the social aspect of meeting new people will always keep things interesting.

7. Dog Walker

Another way to get your steps in is to do so with the company of a furry friend (and make money at the same time). For retirees who love animals, getting a gig as a dog walker could be a fantastic part-time job. 

Walking dogs not only puts a smile on your face but also keeps you active, with plenty of fresh air and exercise. It’s also a great way to meet other pet lovers in your community.

8. Freelance Writer or Blogger

If you enjoy writing, freelance writing or blogging can be a fun part-time job. Apart from being a flexible and convenient way to make some money, it also provides a creative outlet, a means of staying mentally active, and an opportunity to share your knowledge and experiences with others—all of which can be fulfilling in retirement.

9. Gardener or Landscaper

Plenty of people take up gardening in retirement. Why not make money from it? If you have a green thumb and a passion for the outdoors, consider offering your services as a gardener or landscaper. 

This can be an excellent, physically active part-time job for retirees. You can help homeowners maintain their gardens or even offer landscaping design services. 

10. Event Planner

Corporate events, weddings, birthdays, and other milestone celebrations need help with the logistics. If you’re organized and creative, and you have a keen eye for detail, try your hand at event planning.

This fun, socially engaging part-time job for retirees can involve tasks like finding venues, booking vendors, creating schedules, and planning themes. Plus, this is a great opportunity to meet and collaborate with all kinds of people, allowing you to network and forge new relationships.

11. Fitness Instructor

Need a part-time gig that’s as good for your body as it is for your wallet? Stay active by teaching yoga, pilates, or senior fitness classes to help others lead healthier lives. The physical activity is fantastic for your own wellbeing, and the social nature of fitness classes can be a great opportunity to meet new people.

12. Library Assistant

Working at a library allows you to indulge in your love of books and reading. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with library patrons of all ages and assist them with finding books, accessing information, and utilizing library resources.

Additionally, working in a library provides retirees with a peaceful and quiet environment, perfect for those who’d prefer a tranquil space to spend their time. 

13. Nonprofit Worker

Nonprofit work is one of the best jobs for retirees because it provides a profound sense of purpose. Many retirees often find themselves with extra time and a desire to give back. Through nonprofit work, retirees can use their skills and experience to make a difference in the lives of others.

Additionally, nonprofit organizations can provide retirees with social connections and ways to stay active and engaged in their communities, which can have a positive impact on their overall well-being.

14. Home Health Aide

If you have a compassionate nature or experience caregiving for others, working as a part-time home health aide can be very rewarding. In this role, you’ll assist individuals with daily tasks such as meal preparation, medication reminders, and personal care. Additionally, you’ll provide some much-appreciated companionship for those in your care.

15. Personal Shopper

Put your shopping skills to work as a professional personal shopper. You can help others find the perfect items, whether it’s for a special occasion or everyday needs. To succeed, you’ll need a keen sense of style and a strong understanding of the needs and preferences of different individuals.

16. Virtual Assistant

Unlike the traditional office assistant job, virtual assistants work, well, virtually. Many business owners need help with administrative tasks, email management, scheduling, and more.

This is a great part-time for retirees that can be done from the comfort of home, allowing for flexibility and convenience. And, you don’t have to worry about a commute.

17. Museum Docent

If you have a passion for history or art, consider becoming a museum docent. This is one of the best retiree jobs because it offers a range of benefits and opportunities for individuals at this stage of life.

Working as a docent allows retirees to expand their knowledge about various art and historical subjects, while also sharing their expertise and passion with visitors. Additionally, it’s a great opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals who share similar interests, forming new friendships and fostering a sense of community. 

18. Driver 

If you enjoy being behind the wheel, working part-time as a rideshare driver or delivery person can be a flexible, fun, and financially rewarding part-time job. You could even make as much as $100 in a day.

Driving jobs require minimal physical exertion, but are active in other ways—you get to explore your community, enjoy time on the road, and chat with your passengers. 

19. Tax Preparer

Retirees with experience in accounting, bookkeeping, or managing finances may be well-suited to this role. Tax prep involves gathering all relevant financial information from clients, such as income statements, receipts, and deductions, and using this information to accurately fill out required tax forms. Tax preparers must have a thorough understanding of tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance and minimize liabilities for their clients.

Additionally, tax preparation is a seasonal job, typically busiest during the early spring. This allows you to have downtime during the rest of the year, which you can dedicate to whichever leisure activities you’d like.

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