Retirement is the first time in decades you have the time, the knowledge of your city and the patience that most side hustles pay for. Here are ten that use what you already know, with indicative 2026 rates.
1. Local Friend in your own city#
Visitors want someone who knows the city the way you do: the neighbourhoods before they changed, the restaurant that's been there forty years, how to get around, the history that isn't on a plaque. A Local Friend shows them by the hour at a rate you set; Roavi lists you free and takes no commission, and you say yes only to what suits you. Plenty of travellers prefer an older, patient companion. How it works.
2. Consulting in your old field#
Part-time, project-based, at the rates your experience earns.
3. Tutoring and test prep#
Math, reading, writing, a language, or the subject you taught or practised: $25 to $70 an hour.
4. Notary signings#
A notary commission and loan-signing training, then $75 to $150 a signing, scheduled around you.
5. Pet sitting#
$25 to $60 a night, and the dog walks are good for you too.
6. House sitting#
Paid or in exchange for a stay somewhere you'd like to visit.
7. Tour guiding#
Docent work at museums, walking tours of the city you know. How much tour guides make.
8. Mystery shopping#
Small, flexible assignments; modest pay.
9. Teaching a skill#
Woodworking, cooking, sewing, music, photography, at community centres or privately.
10. Seasonal work#
Tax-preparation season, the holidays, national parks and ballparks in summer.
The Social Security earnings limit#
If you're under full retirement age and claiming benefits, earnings above an annual limit temporarily reduce your benefit; after full retirement age there's no limit. Self-employment income also owes self-employment tax. Check the current limit with the Social Security Administration and ask a tax preparer; this is not tax advice.
Know your city better than any guidebook? Show visitors around at your own rate.
Become a Local FriendMore: side hustles for extroverts, fun side hustles where you meet people.
Other groups: side hustles for teachers, side hustles for students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good side hustle for retirees?
One that uses what you already know and keeps your schedule yours: consulting or tutoring in your old field, notary signings, pet and house sitting, and showing visitors your city as a Local Friend. They pay well per hour, need no new career, and let you say no whenever you want.Does side-hustle income affect Social Security?
If you are under full retirement age and claiming benefits, earnings above an annual limit temporarily reduce your benefit; after full retirement age there is no limit. Self-employment income also owes self-employment tax. Check the current limit with the Social Security Administration and ask a tax preparer; this is not tax advice.