High Earning Side Hustles for Women 60 and Up

What Is a Side Hustle for Older Women?

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A side hustle is any part-time work or income-generating activity pursued outside of regular employment. For women 60 and up, side hustles are often flexible, low-stress, and based on existing skills or interests. They can be done from home or in person, depending on preference and physical capability.

Why Women Over 60 Are Starting Side Hustles

Financial Security in Retirement
Many retirees find that Social Security and pensions don’t fully cover rising living costs, especially healthcare.
Freedom to Work on Your Terms
Side hustles give you control over your schedule—no more 9 to 5.
Mental Stimulation & Purpose
Engaging in a side hustle helps keep your brain active and gives a sense of purpose post-retirement.
Pursuing Long-Ignored Passions
Many women finally have the time to turn hobbies into income.
Leaving a Legacy
Whether it’s a blog, a handmade product line, or financial support to grandchildren, side hustles can help build a lasting impact.

Earn $5K+ Monthly: Top Jobs for Women Over 60

Best Remote Jobs for Older Women in America

Top 15 Jobs for Seniors Over 60 That Pay $25+/Hour

✅ Top 10 High-Earning Side Hustles for Women 60 and Up

1. Online Tutoring or Teaching

What it is: Teach English, math, music, or other subjects via platforms like VIPKid, Preply, or Wyzant.
Why it’s great: Leverages your existing knowledge; flexible hours.
Earning Potential: $20–$60/hour.

2. Freelance Writing or Editing

What it is: Write blogs, articles, newsletters, or edit content.
Why it’s great: Great for avid readers or retired professionals from journalism, teaching, or marketing.
Earning Potential: $0.10–$1 per word or $25–$100/hour.

3. Virtual Assistant (VA)

What it is: Manage emails, calendars, customer support, or social media for businesses.
Why it’s great: Work from home with no special degree required.
Earning Potential: $20–$50/hour.

4. Handmade Crafts & Etsy Business

What it is: Sell handmade goods (jewelry, quilts, candles, etc.) on Etsy or at craft fairs.
Why it’s great: Turn hobbies into profits and enjoy the creative process.
Earning Potential: Varies widely, but top sellers earn $1,000+/month.

5. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

What it is: Offer pet care services in your neighborhood or via apps like Rover.
Why it’s great: Ideal for animal lovers who enjoy light physical activity.
Earning Potential: $15–$40 per visit or walk.

6. Life Coaching or Mentoring

What it is: Guide younger women, professionals, or entrepreneurs using your life and career experience.
Why it’s great: Meaningful work that makes a difference.
Earning Potential: $50–$200/hour.

7. Blogging or YouTube Channel

What it is: Share your knowledge or experiences via blog posts or videos (e.g., gardening, cooking, travel, lifestyle tips).
Why it’s great: Passive income opportunity through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
Earning Potential: $100–$5,000/month (after building an audience).

8. Sell Digital Products

What it is: Create printables, eBooks, checklists, or online courses and sell on platforms like Gumroad or Etsy.
Why it’s great: Work once, earn forever (passive income).
Earning Potential: $500–$3,000/month.

9. Airbnb Host or Room Rental

What it is: Rent out a room, basement, or property on Airbnb.
Why it’s great: Use your existing space to generate income.
Earning Potential: $1,000–$3,000/month depending on location.

10. Home Baking or Cooking

What it is: Sell baked goods, jams, pickles, or home-cooked meals to neighbors or online.
Why it’s great: Perfect for culinary lovers.
Earning Potential: $500–$2,000/month depending on orders and marketing.

💡Tips to Get Started Safely

Start small and test your idea.
Use free platforms (like Canva, Etsy, Fiverr) to promote yourself.
Prioritize flexible and low-investment options.
Never pay for jobs upfront or fall for “get rich quick” schemes.
Talk to your accountant about any tax implications.

🙋‍♀️ FAQ: Side Hustles for Women Over 60

Q1. I have no tech skills. Can I still start a side hustle?

Absolutely. Many high-earning options like pet sitting, crafting, baking, or tutoring don’t require advanced tech knowledge. And for those that do, free tutorials are available on YouTube or Coursera.

Q2. Do I need a business license?

It depends. For small-scale services like freelance writing or pet sitting, you may not need one. But selling food, hosting guests, or running a shop may require local permits. Check with your city or county.

Q3. How much money can I realistically make?

Many women earn anywhere from $500 to $3,000/month depending on effort, skill, and consistency. Online-based side hustles tend to scale better over time.

Q4. What if I only want to work a few hours a week?

That’s fine! Choose low-commitment options like:

Selling printables
Freelance writing gigs
Pet sitting on weekends
Tutoring once or twice a week

Q5. Will this affect my Social Security benefits?

Possibly. If you’re below full retirement age and earning over the income limit ($22,320 in 2025), your benefits may be temporarily reduced. Always consult with a financial advisor or use the SSA earnings calculator.

Q6. Can I do this even if I live in a small town?

Yes. Many online hustles like writing, coaching, digital products, or virtual assistance work regardless of location. Local services like home baking or pet care can also be in demand in small communities.

Q7. Where do I find my first customer or client?

Join Facebook groups in your niche.
List your service on Fiverr, Upwork, or Thumbtack.
Tell friends, neighbors, and your community.
Start a simple website or post on WhatsApp groups.

Q8. I’m not confident—how do I start?

Start with something you already enjoy and do a test run with friends or family. Confidence builds with small wins. Remember: experience is your superpower—use it!

🎯 Final Thoughts

Starting a side hustle at 60+ isn’t just possible—it’s empowering. Whether you’re looking to boost income, keep busy, or finally chase that dream you set aside, this is your time. Start small, stay consistent, and choose something that brings you joy. The extra income is just the bonus.

👉 Ready to Start?
Choose one hustle that speaks to you and take one small step today—whether that’s creating an account, watching a tutorial, or brainstorming business names. You’ve got this!