Retirement Hobbies That Make Money

You may be done with your 9-to-5 job, but now you have the freedom to earn additional income on your own time and at your own pace.

If you want to keep busy in retirement and make a little cash in the process, consider embracing a hobby that turns a profit. Is there a particular skill you have or a pastime you love? If so, there’s probably an easy way for you to earn additional income and keep busy when you retire.

1. Sales

Have you been collecting valuables or antiques for years? Consider selling them on a site like eBay, or opening your own online store. Do you bake? Check out farmers markets or see if your local grocery store will carry your products.

2. Writing

Do you have a way with words? There are countless websites where you can search for freelance writing work. Be sure to research the sites and reviews from users to help ensure they are trustworthy.

3. Event Planning

Are your parties the toast of the town? Do you have that special touch that raises events to another level? If you have this skill, get the word out that you’re available. You can start small and keep it that way, or ramp it up to a bigger business.

4. Organizing

Are your closets immaculate? Your dresser drawers divine? Consider parlaying your fastidiousness into additional funds. Get the word out in person and online.

5. Handmade Products

What’s your fancy: jewelry, scrapbooking, clothing, ornaments, soaps or home décor? Show off your wares on independent craft websites that range from Etsy to Zibbet. Or, you can check out individual marketplace options on Amazon and eBay. Local brick-and-mortar shops in your area may also have an option to display your handmade goods.

6. Pet Sitting

You love pets and they love you, so signing up with a pet services app like Rover, Wag or Care could allow you to help out someone else with their pet-sitting or walking needs. If you have more of an entrepreneurial spirit, check out Pet Sitters International’s free book, 5 Must-Do Steps to Starting a Successful Pet-Sitting Business. With 65 percent of households in the U.S. owning at least one pet,¹ it’s a robust market.

7. Photography

Are you a skilled shutterbug? Stock photo sites like iStock and Shutterstock are just two of several places to consider selling your work.

8. Tour Guiding

Sticking around your hometown for retirement? No one knows your area like you do. Take visitors on tours to resident hot spots and share local history.

9. Chauffeuring

Instead of hailing a cab or rideshare service, some people are looking for a consistent, reliable driver. If you enjoy time on the road, this could be a great way to travel and make money.

10. Consulting

If you worked in one industry for several years, you probably picked up a wealth of knowledge that could benefit others. You can promote your insights on a blog, social media or sites such as LinkedIn, where employers and recruiters may be scoping out a seasoned veteran like you to help guide their team.
 

• Pet Care Industry Analysis 2017 – Cost & Trends, franchisehelp.com, 2017.

ALIC37218 (exp. 12/19)