What is Gig Work for Retirees and Why It is Perfect: 100+ Examples

Finances & Freelance

What is Gig Work for Retirees and Why It is Perfect: 100+ Examples

July 15, 2024

Retirement is a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor, but it can also be a period of new opportunities and personal growth. Gig work for retirees offers a perfect blend of flexibility, fulfillment, and extra income.

Follow along as I explore the world of gig work, helping you understand what exactly gig work is, whether it’s right for you, and if so, I’ll help you explore opportunities that make the most sense for your retirement years.

First, a Quick Look at My Story

After spending decades working in human resources, I retired to a quaint small town with front porches, embracing a slower, more connected way of life. It wasn’t long before I found myself yearning for a little something extra—a way to stay productive without the long-term commitments of my former corporate career. Besides volunteering, which I highly recommend, I explored various gig work opportunities.

My gig work experience included paid online surveys, online focus groups, uploading receipts. All the while I was also searching watching for local jobs that suited my snowbird schedule. I wasn’t successful in finding the perfect fit that allowed me flexibility and fulfillment.

Ultimately, I turned to blogging! While it’s not the most lucrative option and is not helping me pay for my travel addiction, but it does perfectly fulfill my need to help people while staying productive. Plus, it’s truly fun to share the things I’ve learned during my retirement years!

Now, let’s explore what gig work is and why it’s an excellent fit for retirees, along with 100+ gig job ideas to inspire you.

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What Exactly Is Gig Work?

The clearest way to think of gig work is as temporary, flexible jobs that typically involve short-term for freelance work that can be informal or formal (such as contract work), and the gigs can range from one-time projects to recurring work. The most distinctive features of gig work are:

Defined scope: Gigs often have clear start and end points, with specific tasks or objectives.
Flexibility: Workers usually have the freedom to choose when and how often they work.
Variety: Gig workers can engage in multiple types of work or with different clients.
Independence: Gig workers are often considered independent contractors rather than employees.

This type of work allows you to tailor your work schedule to perfectly match your preferences and other commitments. This is what makes it perfect in retirement, as it is the epitome of work-life balance.

Gig work for retirees is an excellent way to stay active and engaged without the full-time commitment of traditional employment.

Another term – Gig Economy

You may or may not have heard the term “gig economy”. This refers to a labor market characterized by the prevalence of short-term contracts or freelance work as opposed to permanent jobs. The gig economy encompasses various industries, offering retirees numerous opportunities to leverage their skills and interests.

Great News

Searching for gig work at this point in history is fortuitous because we are currently experiencing a gig economy, which provides a wealth of flexible job options. More than ever before in our lifetime, this economic job climate allows us to take on temporary or project-based jobs, providing both supplemental income and the freedom to work on our own terms.

Examples of Popular Gig Jobs for Retirees

If you’re still a little unsure of what gig jobs are exactly, perhaps these examples will help enlighten you. Here are some jobs that can be considered “gig work”:

Ride-sharing driver: Companies like Uber and Lyft offer flexible hours, allowing you to work whenever you choose, and the chance to meet new people. These jobs fit the gig work model as they provide on-demand, short-term employment without long-term commitments.
Freelance writer or editor: Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr connect you with clients for specific projects, enabling you to work from anywhere and choose assignments that match your skills. The gig nature of these jobs lies in the project-based, freelance nature of the work, rather than being tied to a single employer.
Pet sitter or dog walker: Services like Rover allow you to offer pet care on a schedule that suits you, providing flexible and often short-term engagements. This fits the gig economy model by allowing you to take on jobs as needed without a fixed schedule.
Online tutor: Websites like VIPKid and Tutor.com offer opportunities to teach and mentor students on a flexible, per-session basis. These positions exemplify gig work as they allow you to pick and choose your hours and clients.
Handyman or handywoman: Apps like TaskRabbit connect you with individuals needing repairs or maintenance work, enabling you to accept jobs that fit your availability. The gig aspect is characterized by the on-demand, task-specific nature of the work.
Freelance consultant: Share your expertise in your former profession through consulting gigs, taking on projects as they arise. This role is gig work because it involves short-term contracts and allows you to maintain control over your workload and schedule.
Virtual assistant: Provide administrative support remotely for businesses or entrepreneurs, taking on tasks that vary in scope and duration. This fits the gig work model as it offers flexibility in working hours and the ability to manage multiple clients.

These examples highlight what makes gig jobs unique: their flexibility, project-based nature, and the independence they offer workers.

Pros and Cons of Gig Jobs for Retirees

The flexible, short-term gig work roles offer the allure of independence and variety, appealing to those who want to remain engaged without the constraints of a traditional full-time job. However, like any employment opportunity, gig jobs come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Understanding these pros and cons can help you make informed decisions about whether pursuing gig work is the right fit for your personal lifestyle and financial goals.

Pros:
- Flexibility: Retirees can choose when and where to work, allowing for a balanced lifestyle.
- Low Commitment: Gig jobs often involve short-term projects, eliminating long-term obligations.
- Variety of Opportunities: There is a wide range of roles available, catering to diverse interests and skills.
Cons:
- Income Instability: Gig jobs may not provide a consistent income, leading to financial unpredictability.
- Lack of Benefits: Unlike traditional jobs, gig roles typically do not offer benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans.
- Uncertain Workload: The availability of gigs can fluctuate, resulting in an irregular workload.

You know what? I’m a huge fan of gig work for retirees. It’s perfect for folks who find themselves twiddling their thumbs or feeling a bit lost after leaving the hustle and bustle of the daily grind known as work.

And let’s talk about loneliness…

Loneliness can be a real issue too! I’m so very blessed to have my wonderful hubby to hang out with, but I can totally see how someone who’s used to the buzz of people around at work might really miss having someone to chat with. Gig work is great for that! It gets you out there, meeting new faces, and keeping your brain active. Working not your cup of tea? Check out Spare Time – The #1 Beneficial Thing to Do With It.

From Odd Jobs to the Digital Age

Gig work has come a long way from the informal odd jobs people we used to know in the “olden days”. Back then, gig work often meant temporary manual labor, seasonal work, or side hustles like babysitting and lawn mowing.

Today, the gig economy encompasses a wide range of opportunities, from freelancing and consulting to ridesharing and online tutoring. What’s great is that you have more options and can either utilize your career skills or branch out to do things you always wanted to try your hand at!

The Modern Gig Economy

If you think about it, the digital age has actually revolutionized gig work. Platforms like Uber, Lyft, and Airbnb have created new avenues for earning, while sites like Upwork and Fiverr have made freelancing accessible to millions. Young people are increasingly turning to gig work as their primary source of income, enjoying the flexibility and variety these roles offer. For families, gig work can provide supplemental income and allow for a better work-life balance.

Contrast to the past

Reflecting on my experience raising young children, I would have absolutely loved the opportunity to do gig work from home in the evenings. Back then, I felt extremely limited in what I could do. To help make ends meet, I took on daycare duties in my home, which I hated. I even tried being a salesperson for Pampered Chef, but while I loved being a Pampered Chef shopper, I despised being a salesperson.

At the time, I was in quite a pickle because I had only begun my career five years prior. I then took five years “off” to take care of my babies until they started school and preschool. When I tried to resume my career, I felt lost. I often say it like this: I left a DOS world and returned to a Windows world. For those unfamiliar, it means I left the workplace at the top of my game in computer skills but returned at the bottom of the learning curve!

Why Gig Work Is Perfect for Retirees

Enhancing Fulfillment and Purpose

Gig jobs can provide a sense of purpose by allowing retirees to continue contributing their skills and knowledge. Whether you’re driving a ride-share car or tutoring students, these roles can bring a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Additionally, engaging in meaningful work can positively impact mental and emotional well-being, helping retirees maintain a sense of identity and purpose.

Earning Extra Income Without the Full-Time Commitment

Many retirees look for ways to supplement their income without diving back into a full-time job. Gig jobs offer the perfect solution, providing extra cash while allowing you to maintain a balanced lifestyle. This additional income can help cover living expenses, fund hobbies, or even support travel plans, enhancing your retirement experience.

Staying Active and Socially Engaged

Retirement can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation. Gig jobs offer a way to stay socially active, meet new people, and remain engaged in your community. Whether interacting with passengers as a ride-share driver or collaborating with clients on freelance projects, these roles can help retirees maintain a vibrant social life.

Finding the Right Gig Job for You

Self-Assessment: Identifying Personal Interests and Skills

Start by reflecting on what you enjoy doing and the skills you possess. Consider roles that align with your passions and expertise. Ask yourself questions like:

What activities make me feel energized and fulfilled? When I wake up in the morning, what kind of plans make me jump out of bed, looking forward to my day.
What skills have I developed over my career that I can apply to a new role? Do I want to continue with that?
What did I always wish I could do in my life and career? How can I point in this direction with gig work?
What kind of work environment do I prefer? Home, office, car, etc.

Taking the time to assess your interests and strengths will help you identify gig jobs that are both enjoyable and well-suited to your abilities.

Exploring Different Platforms and Resources

Numerous online platforms connect gig workers with potential employers. Here are some popular options to explore so you can get an idea of what’s out there:

Upwork: A freelance platform for a wide range of services, including writing, graphic design, and consulting.
TaskRabbit: An app that connects you with local tasks and errands, such as furniture assembly, moving assistance, and home repairs.
Rover: A service that matches pet sitters and dog walkers with pet owners in need.
VIPKid: A platform for teaching English to students online, offering flexible hours and a rewarding experience.
Lyft/Uber: Ride-sharing apps that allow you to earn money driving your own car on your schedule.
Fiverr: A marketplace for freelancers offering services starting at $5, covering various creative and professional tasks.
Craigslist: Can you believe it’s still out there? There’s been a section for gig-work for many years now. Check it out!

Tips for Successful Gig Job Hunting

Finding the right gig job involves more than just browsing job listings and applying. It requires a thoughtful assessment of your preferences, needs, and lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you navigate the gig economy and find the opportunities that best suit you:

Assess Your Interests and Skills: Start by identifying what you enjoy doing and what you are good at. Are you passionate about driving, or do you prefer working online? Do you have specific skills that can be monetized, like writing, graphic design, or tutoring?
Determine Your Availability: Decide how many days a week and how many hours a day you are willing to commit to gig work. Are you looking for a flexible schedule where you can choose your hours, or do you prefer a more regular, structured routine?
Evaluate Your Work Environment Preferences: Consider whether you want to work from home, in a traditional work setting, or out and about. Do you prefer online gigs or virtual jobs that allow you to work from anywhere, or are you interested in driving or delivering services?
Explore Different Gig Options:
- Driving and Delivery: Platforms like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash offer opportunities if you enjoy driving and being on the move.
- Freelancing and Remote Work: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and remote job boards provide a variety of online gigs, from writing and graphic design to virtual assistance and coding.
- Hospitality and Hosting: If you have extra space, consider renting it out on Airbnb or providing experiences in your area.
- Task-Based Gigs: Apps like TaskRabbit and Handy allow you to offer services like home repairs, cleaning, and personal assistance.
Decide on the Type of Employment: Think about whether you want to work independently or for an organization. Freelancing offers independence and variety, while working for a company can provide more stability and support.
Set Realistic Goals and Expectations: Be clear about your financial goals and what you hope to achieve through gig work. Understand that some gigs may offer more income potential than others, and some may require a significant time investment to build a client base.
Stay Informed and Adaptable: Keep up with trends in the gig economy and be open to trying new types of work. The gig landscape is constantly evolving, and staying adaptable will help you find new opportunities.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make informed decisions and find gig jobs that align with your lifestyle and goals.

Some Insights for Retirees

Leveraging Transferable Skills from Past Careers

Your previous career has equipped you with valuable skills that can be applied to gig jobs. Emphasize your strengths and experience when applying for roles. For example:

Project management skills can be useful in organizing and coordinating events or tasks on platforms like TaskRabbit.
Writing and communication skills can help you excel as a freelance writer, editor, or tutor.
Technical skills from a career in IT or engineering can be applied to freelance consulting or tech support gigs.

Navigating Online Gig Platforms Effectively

Familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of gig platforms. Here are some tips to maximize your success:

Read reviews: Check feedback from other gig workers to understand the pros and cons of each platform.
Understand payment structures: Know how and when you will be paid, and any fees associated with the platform.
Follow best practices: Adhere to platform guidelines, communicate clearly with clients, and deliver high-quality work on time.

Managing Taxes and Understanding Financial Implications

Earnings from gig jobs are subject to taxes. Keep track of your income, set aside money for taxes, and consider consulting a financial advisor to understand the implications. Here are some key points to consider:

Self-employment taxes: As a gig worker, you may be responsible for paying self-employment taxes, including Social Security and Medicare.
Deductions: Keep records of business-related expenses, such as mileage, supplies, and home office costs, which may be deductible.
Estimated tax payments: You may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties.

Dealing with Potential Ageism and Biases

Ageism can be a challenge in the job market. Focus on highlighting your experience, reliability, and the unique value you bring to the table. Here are some strategies to overcome biases:

Emphasize your achievements: Showcase your accomplishments and the results you’ve delivered in your previous roles.
Stay current: Keep your skills and knowledge up-to-date by taking relevant courses and staying informed about industry trends.
Be confident: Approach gig opportunities with confidence and a positive attitude, demonstrating your enthusiasm and capability.

100+ Gig Job Options for Retirees

There are so many gig job options that I started out with a much shorter list but kept having to add more. The ideas are truly endless!

Suggestion: If you don’t see what you like here I suggest you start searching online and on YouTube (my favorite!) and search for things you enjoy doing and put the word “gig” after it!

Accountant: Provide accounting services. Certification and experience in accounting are necessary.
Actor/Actress: Act in theater, commercials, etc. Experience in acting is beneficial.
Antique Dealer: Buy and sell antiques. Knowledge of antiques is beneficial.
App Developer: Develop mobile apps for clients. Skills in app development are required.
Art Teacher: Teach art classes. Experience in art and sometimes certification is required.
Audiobook Narrator: Narrate audiobooks. A good voice and recording equipment are needed.
Babysitter/Nanny: Look after children on an occasional or regular basis. No certifications required, but experience with children is beneficial.
Baker: Bake goods for farmers markets or for supermarkets/grocery stores. Baking experience recommended.
Barber: Provide haircutting and grooming services for men. Licensure is typically required.
Bartender (for events): Serve drinks at events. Certification may be required.
Beach Cleaner (seasonal): Clean beaches during the season. No certifications required.
Bicycle Courier: Deliver packages by bicycle. A bike and knowledge of the area are needed.
Bicycle Repair Technician: Repair and maintain bicycles. Skills in bicycle mechanics are required.
Blogger: Write and maintain your own blog. No certifications required, but writing skills are beneficial.
Bookkeeper: Manage financial records for small businesses. Knowledge of bookkeeping practices is required.
Campground Host (seasonal): Host campers at campgrounds seasonally. No certifications required.
Car Detailer: Clean and detail cars. Knowledge of car detailing techniques is beneficial.
Career Coach: Provide career coaching services. Experience in career counseling is beneficial.
Caterer: Provide catering services for events. Experience in catering is beneficial.
Charity Fundraiser: Raise funds for charities. No certifications required, but fundraising experience is beneficial.
Childcare Provider (Babysitter/Nanny): Look after children on an occasional or regular basis. No certifications required, but experience with children is beneficial.
Content Creator: Create engaging content for websites or social media. Creativity and relevant skills are needed.
Craft Fair/Flea Market Vendor: Sell crafts and other items at fairs. No certifications required.
Customer Service Representative: Offer customer support remotely. Good communication skills are needed.
Dance Instructor: Teach dance classes. Experience in dance and sometimes certification is required.
DJ (for events): Provide DJ services at events. Experience and equipment are required.
Dog Walker: Walk dogs for busy pet owners. No certifications required, just a love for animals.
Editor: Edit and proofread documents for clients. A background in English or journalism is beneficial.
Elder Companion: Provide companionship and assistance to elderly individuals. Experience with elder care is beneficial.
E-commerce Seller: Sell products online through platforms like eBay or Etsy. No certifications required, but knowledge of online selling is beneficial.
Estate Sale Service: Prepare and execute tag sales or estate sales. Ability to recognize/research valuable items is recommended.
Event Planner: Organize events such as weddings and parties. Experience in event planning is beneficial.
Farmer’s Market Vendor: Sell products at farmer’s markets. No certifications required.
Fitness Instructor: Teach fitness classes. Certification in fitness training is required.
Flea Market Vendor: Sell products at flea markets. No certifications required.
Focus Group Participant: Join focus groups for pay. No certifications required.
Furniture Assembler: Assemble furniture for clients. Skills in furniture assembly are beneficial.
Gardener: Provide gardening services. No certifications required, but gardening knowledge is beneficial.
Genealogist: Research family histories for clients. Knowledge of genealogy and research skills are beneficial.
Graphic Designer: Create visual content for clients. Skills in design software are required.
Hair Stylist (licensure required): Provide hair styling services. Certification and a license are required.
Handyman: Perform various repair and maintenance tasks. Skills in general repairs are beneficial.
Hiking Guide: Lead groups on walks or trails. Knowledge of hiking on trails is helpful.
Home Inspector: Inspect homes for potential buyers. Certification and experience in home inspection are required.
Home Organizer: Help clients organize their homes. No certifications required, but organizational skills are beneficial.
House Cleaner: Clean homes for clients. No certifications required, but cleaning experience is beneficial.
House Sitter: Care for homes while owners are away. No certifications required.
Hunting Guide: Guide hunting trips. Knowledge of hunting is required.
Interior Decorator: Decorate homes and offices. Skills in interior design are beneficial.
IT Support Specialist: Provide technical support for computers and networks. IT knowledge and experience are required.
Junk Removal: Remove junk from homes, attics, etc. Truck and muscles are helpful.
Landscaper: Offer landscaping services. No certifications required, but landscaping experience is beneficial.
Language Tutor: Teach a foreign language. Fluency in the language and teaching experience are beneficial.
Laundry Service Provider: Offer laundry services for individuals. No certifications required.
Life Coach: Provide life coaching services. Certification is beneficial.
Makeup Artist (licensure may be required): Provide makeup services for events. Certification is beneficial.
Manicurist (licensure required): Provide nail care services. Certification and a license are required.
Market Research Participant: Participate in market research studies. No certifications required.
Massage Therapist (licensure required): Provide massage therapy. Certification and a license are required.
Modeling: Showcase products, locations, or concepts through posing. Requires following direction.
Musician/Singer: Perform at events. Experience is required.
Mystery Shopper: Evaluate customer service at various businesses. No certifications required.
Online Survey Taker: Participate in online surveys for pay. Phone or computer needed.
Outdoor Adventure Guide: Lead outdoor adventure activities. Experience in outdoor activities is beneficial.
Packing and Moving Assistant: Help clients pack and move their belongings. Physical fitness is beneficial.
Park Ranger (seasonal): Work as a park ranger seasonally. Experience in park services is beneficial.
Party Entertainer: Perform at children’s parties as clowns, magicians, etc. Performance skills are required.
Personal Chef: Cook meals for clients. Experience in cooking is beneficial.
Personal Shopper: Shop for groceries or other items for clients. No certifications required.
Personal Trainer: Provide fitness training for individuals. Certification in personal training is required.
Pet Groomer: Groom pets for clients. Experience and certification may be required.
Pet Photographer: Take professional photos of pets. Photography skills and equipment are required.
Pet Sitter: Look after pets while owners are away. No certifications required.
Photographer: Take photos for events or portraits. Experience and a good camera are necessary.
Podcast Host: Host your own podcast. A good microphone and content ideas are needed.
Podcast Producer: Produce podcasts for others. Knowledge of audio editing is required.
Pool Maintenance Worker (seasonal): Maintain pools during the season. Knowledge of pool maintenance is beneficial.
Proofreader: Proofread and correct documents for clients. Strong grammar and attention to detail are needed.
Real Estate Agent: Assist clients in buying and selling properties. A real estate license is required.
Resume Writer: Help clients write and improve their resumes. Experience in resume writing is beneficial.
Social Media Manager: Manage social media accounts for businesses. Skills in social media marketing are required.
Software/Usability Tester: Test software for bugs and usability. Experience in software testing is beneficial.
Sports Coach: Coach local sports teams. Experience in the sport is beneficial.
Stock Photographer: Sell photos to stock photography sites. Photography skills and a good camera are needed.
Swimming Instructor: Teach children and/or adults to swim. Certification is required.
Tailor/Seamstress: Provide clothing alteration services. Skills in sewing and alterations are required.
Tax Preparer: Prepare taxes for individuals or businesses. Certification may be required.
Telehealth Provider: Provide health consultations remotely. Certification and experience in the health field are required.
Tour Guide: Lead tours in your local area. No certifications required, but comfort level with public speaking is beneficial.
Translator: Translate documents or conversations. Fluency in multiple languages is required.
Travel Agent: Plan and book travel for clients. Certification is beneficial.
Tutor: Tutor students in various subjects. Expertise in the subject matter is required.
Vlogger: Create video content for YouTube or other platforms. A good camera and editing skills are needed.
Virtual Assistant: Provide administrative support remotely. Skills in organization and communication are needed.
Virtual Book Club Host: Host and moderate virtual book club meetings. No certifications required, but a love for books is beneficial.
Virtual Fitness Coach: Provide fitness coaching through video calls. Certification in fitness training is beneficial.
Virtual Juror: Participate in online mock trials. No certifications required.
Voiceover Artist: Provide voiceover for videos and advertisements. A good voice and recording equipment are needed.
Water Plants: Indoors and/or outdoors. Knowledge of plants is helpful.
Web Developer: Develop websites for clients. Skills in web development are required.
Wine Taster: Taste and review wines for wineries or publications. Knowledge of wine is beneficial.
Woodworker: Create wooden crafts and furniture. Skills in woodworking are required.
Workshop Facilitator: Conduct workshops on various topics. Expertise in the workshop topic is beneficial.
Yoga Instructor: Teach yoga classes. Certification in yoga instruction is required.

Other Employment Options to Search For

The following job types offer different levels of stability and flexibility compared to gig jobs. If you’re searching conventional job boards like LinkedIn or Google, these job types will be shown as options that you can filter on. Using the job filters, typically at the top of the search page, helps you narrow down your options!

Hybrid Jobs: These combine remote work with occasional office visits, offering a balance between flexibility and structure.
Remote Jobs: Fully remote positions that allow you to work from anywhere, providing maximum flexibility for your lifestyle.
Contract Work: This involves short-term projects with specific goals and timelines, ideal for those seeking variety without long-term commitments.
Temporary Work: Also known as temp work, these are short-term positions that typically last for a specific period of time or until a particular project is completed. Temporary work can range from a few days to several months and is often used to fill gaps in staffing or handle seasonal demands.

Wrapping Up

Gig work offers a fantastic opportunity for retirees to stay active, engaged, and productive without the constraints of traditional employment. With flexibility, variety, and the chance to explore new interests, gig work can be the perfect fit for your retirement lifestyle.

Ready to dive into the world of gig work? Start researching opportunities today and take the first step toward a fulfilling and flexible retirement. Check out online platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and TaskRabbit, and don’t forget to leverage your personal network. Happy gigging!