5 Side Gigs That Actually Pay Retirees Well in 2025
Retirement doesn’t have to mean slowing down — especially when so many opportunities today let older adults earn money flexibly and on their own terms.
In 2025, a growing number of retirees are discovering that side gigs can be both profitable and personally rewarding. Whether you want to pad your Social Security, stay active, or explore something new, these five gigs are worth your time.
1. Virtual Assistant Work
What it is:
Small businesses, entrepreneurs, and content creators all need help organizing emails, managing calendars, and handling day-to-day admin work. That’s where virtual assistants (VAs) come in.
Why retirees love it:
You can do it from home, set your own hours, and work with clients in industries that actually interest you. Many retirees use their decades of office experience to land higher-paying VA roles right away.
How to start:
Websites like Belay, Upwork, and Time Etc. are great places to find legitimate openings. Create a short online profile describing your skills (Word, Excel, scheduling, communication) and start bidding on part-time gigs.
Average pay:
$20–$35 per hour, depending on experience and workload.
