The gig workplace — short-term contract and freelance work — has become a significant part of the American economy. These jobs offer employment opportunities for seniors looking to supplement their income in retirement. Many of these jobs do not require much training and some are performed remotely, accommodating the retirement lifestyle of seniors.
According to the senior advocacy group AARP, 26% of U.S. adults aged 50 and older are gig workers. Read on to find out which jobs offer the opportunity to earn extra money while still maintaining a flexible schedule to enjoy retirement.
What Types of Part-Time Jobs Are Seniors Finding?
Among the areas gig workers are flocking to are rideshare driving (Uber, Lyft), delivery services (DoorDash, Grubhub), freelance writing and editing (24/7 Wall St., Stacker), graphic design (Upwork, Fiverr), and tutoring (Tutor.com).
Many of these jobs are based on app-based platforms such as Airbnb and Uber, but not all of them. Gig jobs offer flexible working hours; opportunity to work from anywhere with an internet connection; creative independence; and the ability to work remotely.
Are There Downsides to Gig Work for Seniors?
While gig work offers freedom and flexibility, there are downsides to it. Workflow can fluctuate, and the unpredictability of work month to month is not for the faint of heart. Gig workers are also responsible for their own benefits, health care, retirement planning, and budgeting. The downside is there is no job security, vacation days, or sick pay.
Here are some of the most popular jobs in the gig economy that can be a great fit for seniors:
1. Rideshare Driving
Median pay: $13.70 to $14.73 per hour before tips for Uber and Lyft
Rideshare drivers use their own vehicles to transport passengers. Drivers must meet age, license, and vehicle requirements and pass background checks. This job offers flexibility in working hours and the ability to choose when and where to work.
2. Delivery Services
Median pay: $19.21 per hour, $39,950 per year
Delivery drivers pick up food, groceries, or other items from businesses and deliver them to customers. Like rideshare driving, this job offers flexible hours and can often be done with a bike or scooter in addition to a car. Platform examples include DoorDash, Postmates, UberEats, and Grubhub.
3. Freelance Writing and Editing
Median pay: $35.43 per hour, $73,690 per year
Freelance writers and editors create content for websites, blogs, marketing materials, and more. This job allows individuals to work from anywhere with an internet connection and set their own schedules. The platform examples include Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.
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4. Graphic Design
Median pay: $28.32 per hour, $58,910 per year
Freelance graphic designers create visual content for clients, including logos, websites, advertisements, and social media graphics. This job offers creative freedom and the ability to work with diverse clients. Platform examples include 99designs, Upwork, and Fiverr.
5. Tutoring and Teaching
Median pay: $39,580 per year
Online tutors and teachers provide educational assistance to students of all ages. This can include tutoring in specific subjects, teaching English as a second language, or providing test-preparation services. These jobs typically offer flexible hours and remote working options. VIPKid, Tutor.com, and Chegg Tutors are platform examples.
6. Selling Baked Goods
Median pay: $500 to $1,000 per month
Selling baked goods as a side hustle requires minimal startup costs and low-risk. Challenges include managing perishable goods and costs to upgrade equipment.
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7. Focus Groups
Median pay: $25 per hour, up to as much as $35 an hour
Earning money at home while sharing opinions on products and services in focus groups. Payment can be spotty, and people should be on the lookout for scams.
8. Babysitting
Median pay: $10 to $15 per hour
Babysitting is not just for teens, and senior citizens are well-suited to perform this task. Sites such as findgigwork.com suggest getting certifications for first aid to enhance credibility and earn higher pay.
9. Movie Reviewers
Median pay: Reviewers can earn up to $46,281 annually depending on experience and platform.
Seniors can turn that time viewing films on TCM into a lucrative side hustle by reviewing movies. Candidates need good writing skills, a computer, reliable internet, and strongly held opinions.
10. Product Reviews
Median pay: $42,849 per year
Seniors can use free time to test products and earn extra cash. No formal qualifications are required. Among the top platforms are Userfeel, Userlytics, uTest, and Survey Junkie.
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