The new retirement playbook

Experience-driven side hustles

Side hustles began as a way for younger workers to make ends meet. Things like ridesharing, freelancing online or selling handmade goods on Etsy. Over time, the gig economy grew, and the idea of earning money outside a traditional job became mainstream.

Now, side hustles aren’t just for the young. Retirees are joining in, not out of necessity, but out of curiosity and purpose. And they’re seeking more than an average gig. They’re looking for experience-driven opportunities that offer meaning, creativity and connection.

Here are some gigs that break from the norm, helping you stay active, express creativity, meet new people and explore the world – and the extra income is a bonus.

International house sitter

Travel is more than sightseeing. It’s about creating relationships and sharing experiences. House and pet sitting abroad is a great way to provide peace of mind for owners while immersing yourself in local communities. There’s also the free accommodations.

Platforms like TrustedHousesitters and HouseCarers make it easy to connect with home and pet owners worldwide. It starts with a strong profile and references. From there, every place you stay builds credibility and trust, opening more doors around the globe.

TIP: Set clear expectations with homeowners, check visa requirements and get travel insurance prior to each trip.

Local tour guide

If you’re most comfortable in the familiar places you love, then share it with visitors as they explore your hometown or city. As a local expert, you can offer a unique and authentic experience to tourists, sharing the very best of what your locale has to offer. Recommend things to do, places to visit and share personal stories that make them feel like insiders.

You can make your own hours, meet new people and showcase the history, culture or culinary gems of your hometown. Platforms like TrueLocals or AirBnb Experiences make it simple to reach travelers looking for curated outings.

TIP: Give your tours a theme like history, food or even hauntings for an unforgettable experience.

Professional photography

If you have a talent for capturing great shots and an eye for composition, odds are someone will pay for your photos. You don’t need any professional gear either. Even the images you capture on your phone can earn money.

Submit your work to services like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock or iStock, and earn royalties whenever your photos are downloaded. From sunsets to family portraits, you never know which shot may be perfect for someone’s project. The more often you upload, the greater your earning potential.

TIP: Tagging each photo you upload with keywords helps potential buyers find them.

Mentor to a family

The Rent-a-Grandparent movement, where retirees offer childcare, mentoring or companionship, has exploded in popularity in recent years. By leveraging a lifetime of experience to support families, you offer more than childcare. You offer trust, connection and a sense of belonging. In return, you gain a deep sense of purpose.

Caregiving communities like Rent-a-Grandma can connect you with families looking for your guidance. With flexible arrangements from after-school help to occasional weekend care, you can set a schedule that works for you. You can offer various services like tutoring, mentoring and developmental support while becoming an important presence in the lives of children and families.

TIP: Even if providing childcare isn’t your specialty, your life experience makes you a uniquely qualified mentor.

Mystery shopper

If you love to shop, notice the little details, care about great service and secretly long to go undercover, then mystery shopping could be the perfect gig. Businesses hire you for your reliability and sharp eye. You’ll visit stores and restaurants to check service quality and report back, earning cash and possibly scoring some perks as you help businesses improve.

TIP: Start on trusted platforms like BestMark or Market Force, build your reputation and unlock bigger, more exciting assignments.

The future of retirement is active, creative and full of opportunities. Some pursuits bring deep meaning, others pure fun. Picture house-sitting in a Swiss chalet, showing tourists your favorite neighborhood café or going undercover to improve customer experiences. Side hustles let you pursue your passions with purpose while earning income. Discover what sparks excitement and joy for you.