8 Business ideas for retirees
Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of earning, many retirees are finding that starting a small business offers both purpose and supplemental income. Whether you’re looking to stay active, pursue a passion or bolster your retirement savings, there are countless low-risk, flexible business ideas perfectly suited for retirees.
In this article, we’ll explore the best business ideas for retirees based on lifestyle, skills and financial investment.
1. Consulting and Freelancing
Retirees often have decades of experience in industries like finance, education, healthcare or management. Consulting allows you to turn your expertise into a high-value service.
Why it works:
- Minimal startup costs
- Flexible schedule
- Remote or part-time work options
Examples:
- Business consulting
- Financial advising (non-certified roles)
- HR or leadership coaching
If you prefer working solo or remotely, freelance writing, editing or bookkeeping are also great options.
2. Tutoring or Teaching
With online learning platforms and local opportunities, tutoring is a rewarding and profitable venture. You can teach anything from math and languages to music or test prep.
Platforms to get started:
- Wyzant
- Preply
- VIPKid (for teaching English online)
You can also offer in-person tutoring to local students or set up group workshops in libraries or community centers.
3. Handmade Crafts and Art
If you’re creative, crafting can become a thriving small business. Retirees with skills in woodworking, painting, sewing or jewelry-making can sell their creations on platforms like Etsy or at local craft fairs.
How to grow your craft business:
- Set up an Etsy shop or use Shopify
- Create a presence on Instagram or Pinterest
- Attend artisan markets and pop-up events
This type of business offers flexibility and can be scaled based on your time and interest.
4. Pet Services
Love animals? Pet care services are always in demand. Dog walking, pet sitting, grooming and even pet photography are viable business ideas for retirees.
Benefits:
- Active and enjoyable work
- Regular, repeat customers
- Low initial costs if working from home
Starting with family, friends, or neighbors can help build a loyal customer base. Sites like Rover or Care.com make finding clients easier.
5. Bed and Breakfast or Airbnb Hosting
If you have a spacious home or a second property, hosting on Airbnb can provide steady income. You control the availability, making it easy to take breaks or limit guest stays.
Tips to succeed:
- Provide top-tier hospitality
- Keep spaces clean and well-decorated
- Target specific niches (e.g., pet-friendly, business travelers)
Some retirees even renovate garages or guest houses into short-term rentals.
6. Gardening and Landscaping Services
If you enjoy spending time outdoors, a landscaping or gardening business is a great way to stay active and generate income. You can also sell homegrown vegetables, herbs or flowers at local farmers markets.
Potential services:
- Lawn care and maintenance
- Planting and seasonal cleanup
- Garden consulting for urban homes
This can be a solo venture or a small team effort with family or friends.
7. Senior Services
Retirees are uniquely positioned to understand the needs of their peers. Starting a business aimed at seniors can be personally fulfilling and profitable.
Ideas include:
- Companion services
- Transportation assistance
- Tech setup and training for older adults
This niche continues to grow as the senior population expands, offering both social impact and opportunity.
8. Online Reselling
Selling vintage goods, antiques, books, or thrifted items online is a lucrative option for retirees with an eye for value. Platforms like eBay, Poshmark or Facebook Marketplace make selling easy.
Best practices:
- Focus on a niche (e.g., vintage toys, collectibles)
- Keep listings accurate and detailed
- Use quality photos and fast shipping
This is perfect for retirees who enjoy hunting for treasures at garage sales and estate auctions.
Retirement opens the door to pursue passions that may have been sidelined during a full-time career. Whether you’re looking for a side income, a meaningful way to spend your time or a chance to build something new, there’s a business idea out there for you.
Start small, leverage your strengths and don’t be afraid to try something new. With the right business model, retirement can become your most fulfilling and profitable chapter yet.
