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A significant number of seniors are choosing to remain professionally active, leveraging the convenience and flexibility of remote work. With advancements in technology and the shifting dynamics of the global workforce, working from home has become more accessible and prevalent among the senior population.
This article delves into a range of the best at-home jobs for retirees, backed by data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Whether you’re a retiree looking to stay engaged or considering a transition into remote work, this guide offers insights into the most suitable roles for your golden years.
Top work-from-home jobs for seniors
Here’s a list of the best work-from-home jobs for retirees along with relevant statistics.
1. Tax accountant or bookkeeper
Median hourly pay: $37.14
Job outlook (drop or growth rate from 2021 to 2031): 6%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Tax accountants and bookkeepers play a crucial role in managing financial records and ensuring compliance with tax laws. With a median hourly wage of $37.14, these professionals prepare and examine financial records, often working full-time with overtime hours during tax season or quarterly audits. The field is projected to grow 6 percent from 2021 to 2031, reflecting steady demand. For seniors with a background in accounting or related fields, this role offers opportunities for part-time or seasonal work, especially during tax season. The ability to work independently or in various business settings adds to the appeal for retirees seeking to continue their professional engagement.
2. Freelance writer, editor or blogger
Median hourly pay: $33.42
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): 4%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Freelance writing, editing, or blogging offers seniors the flexibility and autonomy to work from anywhere with computer access. With a median hourly pay of $33.42, these roles are financially rewarding without physical demands. The ability to set one’s own schedule and engage in creative expression makes this field an attractive option for those in their golden years, aligning well with the needs and desires of retirees.
3. Childcare services
Median hourly pay: $13.22
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): 6%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Childcare services offer a nurturing and rewarding opportunity for seniors who enjoy working with children. With a median hourly wage of $13.22, childcare workers attend to children’s needs and foster early development. The role can be tailored to part-time work and irregular hours, making it suitable for retirees seeking flexibility. The ability to work in various settings, including childcare centers, private households, or even one’s own home, adds to the appeal for seniors looking to make a positive impact in their community.
4. Maintain websites or do graphic design
Median hourly pay: $37.65
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): 23%
Requirement for prior work experience: None
Website maintenance and graphic design roles offer a blend of creativity and technical skills, making them suitable for seniors with a background in these areas. With a median hourly wage of $24.38, these positions provide opportunities to create visual concepts and manage online content. The flexibility to work remotely and the minimal physical demands make this field appealing to retirees. Whether employed in specialized design services, publishing, or advertising, you can find fulfillment in contributing to visual communication and digital landscapes.
5. Translator
Median hourly pay: $23.61
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): 20%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
The role of a translator offers a unique opportunity for seniors who are proficient in English and at least one other language. The projected growth of 20 percent from 2021 to 2031 indicates a strong demand for this profession. With a median hourly wage of $23.61, translators convert information from one language into another, working in diverse settings such as schools, hospitals, and conference centers. For those who prefer to work from home and bring businesses together or maybe even translate books, online translator jobs are also an option. Part-time work is common, and the flexibility in work schedules makes this an attractive option for retirees looking to utilize their language skills.
6. Business consultant (management analyst)
Median hourly pay: $44.71
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): 11%
Requirement for similar work experience: 5 years or less
Business consultants, also known as management analysts, play a vital role in improving an organization’s efficiency. With a median hourly wage of $44.71, these professionals analyze business problems and develop strategies to address them. The role offers an 11 percent projected growth from 2021 to 2031, indicating strong demand. For seniors with experience in business, management, or related fields, this role provides an opportunity to leverage their expertise. The flexibility to work on various projects and the potential to work part-time or as an independent consultant makes this an attractive option for retirees seeking to continue their professional journey.
7. Customer care
Median hourly pay: $17.75
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): -4%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Customer care roles, also known as customer service representatives, provide a vital connection between companies and their clients. With a median hourly wage of $17.75, these professionals handle complaints, process orders, and answer questions. While the field is projected to decline by 4 percent from 2021 to 2031, there are still opportunities, especially for part-time work or temporary positions. For seniors with strong communication skills and a desire to assist others, customer care offers a chance to work in various industries. The role’s adaptability to remote work also makes it suitable for retirees seeking flexible work arrangements.
8. Seamstress or quilt maker (sewing machine operator)
The stats below are pulled from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics for the role of “sewing machine operator”, which is quite similar to a seamstress or quilt maker.
Median annual wage: $29,690
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): -8%
Requirement for similar work experience: variable depending on the complexity of the tasks (you do need to know how to operate the machine though)
Seamstresses and quilt makers design, make, alter, repair, or fit garments. With a median hourly wage of $17.90, these professionals can work in various industries such as clothing retail, personal and household goods repair, and apparel manufacturing. The role offers flexibility and creativity, making it suitable for seniors who have sewing skills or a passion for crafting. Opportunities for part-time work or self-employment are common in this field, allowing retirees to set their own schedules and work from home. The tactile and artistic nature of the work can provide a fulfilling and engaging experience for those in their golden years.
9. Local tutor
Median hourly pay: $15 to $80 (varies by subject, location, and expertise)
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Local tutors provide personalized educational support to students in various subjects. The pay can range from $15 to $80 an hour, depending on factors such as the subject matter, the tutor’s qualifications, and the location. For seniors with expertise in a particular field or subject, tutoring offers a chance to share knowledge and make a positive impact on students’ lives. The role often allows for flexible scheduling and the possibility of working from home or in a local community setting. This flexibility, combined with the rewarding nature of helping others learn, makes tutoring an appealing option for retirees.
10. Music teacher
Median hourly pay: Varies (the median annual wage for high school teachers, including music teachers, was $61,820 in May 2021)
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): 5%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Music Teachers instruct students in music theory, performance, and appreciation. They may work in schools, offer private lessons, or conduct community music programs. For seniors with a background in music, this role offers a chance to share their passion and expertise with others. The pay can vary widely depending on the setting and the teacher’s qualifications.
One appealing aspect of this role for retirees is the opportunity to work from home, offering private lessons either in person or through online platforms.
11. Seller on eBay, Etsy, Amazon, or your own e-commerce website
Median hourly pay: NA
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Selling products online through platforms like eBay, Etsy, Amazon, or running your own e-commerce website offers a flexible and accessible opportunity for seniors. The pay can vary widely depending on the products sold, the platform used, and the seller’s marketing and business skills.
For retirees looking to turn a hobby or passion into a source of income, online selling provides a chance to work from the comfort of home. Whether it’s crafting, collecting, or curating products, seniors can set up an online store and manage it at their own pace. The role allows for creativity and entrepreneurship, and the ability to connect with customers worldwide adds to the appeal. With the growth of online shopping, this option offers a fulfilling and potentially lucrative path for those in their golden years.
12. Virtual assistant
Median hourly pay: $20 (can be higher for specialized skills such as social media or WordPress)
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): -8%
Requirement for similar work experience: Variable (executive assistants may require several years of experience, however there are entry-level positions available)
Virtual assistants carry out administrative tasks from the comfort of their homes, including scheduling appointments, making phone calls, arranging travel plans, and managing email accounts. For retirees who are strong communicators and thrive on organization, this role offers flexibility and the opportunity to continue professional engagement. Specialized skills can command higher pay, making this an attractive option for seniors looking to leverage their expertise.
13. Dietitian
Median hourly pay: $30
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): 7%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Dietitians with the right degree and license can work from home, meeting with clients via video conference to create nutrition plans and make diet recommendations. This role allows seniors to provide personalized diet and food education, tracking clients’ progress, and adjusting plans as needed. The ability to work remotely and set flexible hours makes this a rewarding option for retirees with a background in nutrition or healthcare.
14. Transcriptionist
Median hourly pay: $17 (for medical transcriptionists, varies by industry)
Job outlook (from 2021 to 2031): -7%
Requirement for similar work experience: None
Transcriptionists with excellent typing skills can work from home, transcribing recorded messages for various industries such as legal, medical, or law enforcement. This job can be an especially good fit for retirees with industry-specific experience, as familiarity with the lingo and jargon can be beneficial. The pay scale depends on the industry, and the ability to work remotely offers flexibility and the chance to continue professional engagement in retirement.
Bottomline
Embracing retirement doesn’t mean putting a halt to professional growth. From virtual assistance to transcription, these work-from-home roles offer retirees the flexibility to pursue passions, leverage expertise, and earn income. These opportunities reflect the diverse and fulfilling paths available to seniors in today’s interconnected and adaptable job market.
