9 of the Best Part-Time Jobs for Retirees
Introduction
Retirement doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop working. Whether you want to turn a side hobby into a steady source of income or haven't saved quite enough to fully retire, continuing to work past retirement age isn’t unusual. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that workers over 55 will make up almost 25% of the labor force in 2024, up from 19.5% in 2010. For retirees looking for a new source of income, a part-time job may be a good bet. Here are nine of the best part-time jobs for retirees ranked by median wage.
Image Description: A group of happy retirees working part-time jobs.
1. Funeral Service Workers
- Median annual wage: $56,850
- Education level: Associate's degree
- Projected job growth rate through 2026: 2,900
Image Description: A funeral service worker assisting a family during a service.
2. Library Assistant
- Median annual wage: $29,050
- Education level: High school diploma or equivalent
- Projected job growth through 2026: 18,800
Image Description: A library assistant helping a patron find a book.
3. Crossing Guard
- Median annual wage: $27,630
- Education level: None needed
- Projected job growth through 2026: 6,300
Image Description: A crossing guard helping children safely cross the street.
4. Retail Worker
- Median annual salary: $25,820
- Education level: None needed
- Projected job growth through 2026: 25,000
Image Description: A retail worker assisting a customer in a store.
5. Cashier
- Median annual wage: $21,030
- Education level: None needed
- Projected job growth through 2026: -30,600
Image Description: A cashier processing a customer's purchase.
6. Ushers, Lobby Attendants & Ticket Takers
- Median annual wage: $20,820
- Education level: None needed
- Projected job growth through 2026: 8,800
Image Description: An usher helping guests find their seats at an event.
Freelancing Opportunities for Retirees
For those looking for flexibility after retiring, freelancing may be an attractive option. More than 16% of those over 65 are self-employed compared with just 1.81% of those ages 16 to 24. Here are some of the top freelancing jobs ranked by median wage.
1. Writer & Author
- Median annual wage: $61,820
- Education level: Bachelor’s degree
- Projected job growth through 2026: 10,000
Image Description: A freelance writer working on a laptop at home.
2. Craft or Fine Artist
- Median annual wage: $49,160
- Education level: Postsecondary education recommended but not required
- Projected job growth through 2026: 3,100
Image Description: A craft artist creating handmade items.
3. Photographer
- Median annual wage: $32,490
- Education level: High school diploma or equivalent
- Projected job growth through 2026: -8,300
Image Description: A freelance photographer taking photos at an event.
4. Tailor or Seamstress
- Median annual wage: $28,600
- Education level: None needed
- Projected job growth through 2026: -4,500
Image Description: A tailor working on a garment.
Conclusion
Retirement can be a great time to explore new career opportunities or continue working in a part-time capacity. Whether you choose a traditional part-time job or opt for freelancing, there are plenty of options to stay active and financially secure in your retirement years.
Image Description: Infographic summarizing the best part-time jobs for retirees.
