Best Jobs for Retirees

Have you considered earning some extra cash in retirement by doing the work you’ve always wanted to do? Here are 20 of the best jobs to keep your mind and body in shape.

Happy mature couple looking away while standing against food truck - stock photo
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Whether you're in retirement or nearing it, a little extra money each month could be helpful. Maybe you're looking for a way to stay busy, share your expertise, or simply do something you love —especially if you're not into golf or pickleball. If so, you're not alone, with more and more older people going back to work.

In 2024, 37.3% of people age 55+ were employed, up from 31.5% in 2000. By comparison, in 1983, the labor force participation rate for people age 65 or over was just 19%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Although there are more than a few reasons to return to work, more than half, or 53% of respondents of a 2024 CNBC and SurveyMonkey poll, say they returned to work because they are behind on retirement planning and savings.

In a recent update from Resume Builder, one out of every eight retired seniors said that they are returning to work. The top reason? An increase in the cost of living. And, although you might be able to live off Social Security as your only source of income, it probably won't be enough to replace your pre-retirement standard of living. Unfortunately, most retirees lack the minimum savings to retire in all 50 states.

If you’re considering returning to work in retirement —whether for enjoyment or because you’re strapped for cash — consider the following 20 opportunities.

Kathryn Pomroy
Contributor

For the past 18+ years, Kathryn has highlighted the humanity in personal finance by shaping stories that identify the opportunities and obstacles in managing a person's finances. All the same, she’ll jump on other equally important topics if needed. Kathryn graduated with a degree in Journalism and lives in Duluth, Minnesota. She joined Kiplinger in 2023 as a contributor.

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