Getting a Retirement Job to Supplement Your Income

Peter Richardson is a vice president of Planning Excellence at Northwestern Mutual.   

Retirement isn’t quite the ride off into the sunset that it used to be. In fact, sometimes retirement doesn’t even mean the end of work; it’s just a point when you don’t have to work anymore. Whether it’s earning a little side cash, staying involved in your community, widening your social circle or the opportunity to learn new things—continuing to work can lead to a more fulfilling retirement.  

If you’re thinking about retirement jobs, it usually makes sense to look for something that’s low stress and piques your interest. Here’s a closer look at the details, including nine potential jobs for retirees.  

How many people go back to work after retiring? 

Thinking about dipping your toes back into the workforce? If so, you aren’t alone. About 4 percent of retired folks are doing some form of paid work, according to a 2023 survey from the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies. But when people do “unretire,” it’s likely on a part-time basis.  

Why do some retirees go back to work?  

There are a few different reasons to consider a part-time job in retirement. After working for decades, this might be the first time in your adult life that your schedule is open and your days are unstructured—which can feel like a blessing or a curse. Choosing the right retirement job may enrich this phase of your life and even lead to a little fun. Going back to work in some capacity could help with the following:

• Building social connections and staying active 

• Renewing a sense of purpose 

• Being more engaged in your community  

• Exploring work you’ve always been curious about 

• Improving your mental health and cognitive functioning 

• Strengthening your legacy plan and leaving more money to your loved ones 

Exploring retirement jobs can also provide additional money to supplement your income. You could use those extra dollars to save for unexpected health care costs you might encounter later on. That’s no small thing, especially since U.S. adults believe they’ll need $1.46 million to retire comfortably, according to the 2024 Northwestern Mutual Planning & Progress Study. 

9 best retirement jobs 

So, what is a good part-time job for retirees? The right role for you will depend on your interests and skills. Get the inspiration flowing with these part-time jobs.  

Consultant

Chances are you have marketable skills from your career. You might be able to leverage that experience to find temporary work in your field, which might involve consulting or taking on freelance work. Your former employers could be great places to start. 

Dog walker or pet sitter 

This could lead to a steady stream of income for animal lovers. You can use social media to put the word out among friends and family. Signing up for a matching service like Wag! or Rover can also help you connect with pet owners in your area. 

Tour guide 

You might unlock extra retirement income by leading tours around town in large groups or private small tours. An added bonus is that you’ll get out around town and enjoy walking and socializing. You can look for available gigs on job posting websites or by reaching out to your local tourism office. 

Retail worker 

You can also cast your net around local shops, boutiques and retailers of all kinds. Start by thinking about your interests and hobbies. For example, if you love connecting with others and chatting with people in the neighborhood, you might like working at a nearby coffee shop. You might also score an employee discount. 

Online shop owner  

If you have a creative flair, you could monetize that online. Makers of all stripes use platforms like Etsy and Shopify to showcase handmade crafts, art, clothing and more. The best part is that it gives you the opportunity to make money doing something you enjoy.  

House sitter 

When it comes to retirement jobs, this one is a standout option for those who like to travel. Instead of paying for hotels, you could house sit for locals—and make money while you’re away. You could also do this in your local community. TrustedHousesitters and House Sitters America are good places to start. 

Freelance writer 

Lots of retirees have a compelling story to tell. You could spin that into a novel, memoir or piece of nonfiction and then self-publish it and sell it online. Another creative pathway is to write blog posts or articles for publications and businesses. This could be a fulfilling retirement job if communication is your strong suit.  

Content creator 

Gen Z-ers aren’t the only ones who can be social media influencers. You could use your Facebook or Instagram account to create original content. Your goal may be to educate people around a specific topic or simply share entertaining snippets of your life. You might eventually make money through brand partnerships or subscriptions. 

Tutoring or teaching 

Teaching online is another potential way to make extra money in retirement. That might involve tutoring school-aged kids or college students or creating your own courses and selling them on platforms like Teachable or Skillshare. Topics could include everything from photography to cooking. 

If finding the best retirement jobs is on your mind, it’s wise to talk with a financial advisor about how that might impact your short- and long-term goals. When done right, it could help you bring in extra retirement income and build up your legacy plan. 

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization’s initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.