Top 10 Business Ideas for Retirees in 2025

Retirement isn’t what it used to be—and neither is work.

More than ever, retirees are choosing to start businesses that align with their passions, values, and lifestyle goals. Some want extra income. Others want structure, purpose, or a way to stay mentally sharp and socially connected. Whatever the motivation, one thing is clear: today’s retirees are rewriting the rules of what a “second act” looks like.

👉 How to start a business after retirement

📊 Quick stat: According to the Kauffman Foundation, 26% of new entrepreneurs in the U.S. are aged 55–64. That number continues to grow as more people seek meaning and flexibility in their post-career years.

Unlike traditional startups that demand 60-hour workweeks, high risk, and massive capital, these modern encore ventures focus on balance, simplicity, and freedom. Retirees aren’t chasing unicorns—they’re building businesses that fit their life, not the other way around.

The business ideas we’re about to explore aren’t just trendy, they’re rooted in what real retirees want:

• 💡 Low startup costs
• 🕒 Flexible hours
• 🧭 Purpose and passion
• 💬 Human connection
• 💸 Steady, meaningful income

Whether you're looking to consult, create, teach, sell, or serve—there’s a business model out there with your name on it. Let’s explore the top 10 retiree-friendly business ideas trending in 2025.

 

 

Criteria for a Great Retirement Business

Not every business is built with retirees in mind—and that's okay. The key is finding one that fits you.

Success isn't measured in hustle or scale for many retirees—it's about balance. An excellent retirement business should support your lifestyle, not dominate it. The best opportunities are low-stress, purpose-driven, and flexible, allowing you to enjoy your time and freedom.

What Makes It “Retiree-Ready”?

To make the cut for this list, every business idea had to check at least a few of these boxes:

• Low startup costs – No need to drain your nest egg. Many ideas require minimal upfront investment.
• Flexible schedule – Work when you want. Set your own hours around family, travel, or grandkid time.
• Leverages existing experience – Build on your hard-earned knowledge—no need to start from scratch.
• Limited tech complexity – While some tech is unavoidable, these ideas don’t require you to become a coder overnight.
• Remote or home-based possible – Whether you're in the mountains or at the beach, you can often work from anywhere.

Bonus Factors to Consider

Depending on your goals and lifestyle, the “perfect fit” may also include:

• Health and mobility needs – Physical demands should match your energy level and wellness goals.
• Social engagement potential – Want to meet people, connect with your community, or mentor others? Look for people-oriented work.
• Alignment with hobbies or legacy goals – The right business can blend profit with passion or even become a way to pass down knowledge.

The bottom line? Your second act should feel like freedom, not another job.

 

 

#1 – Freelance Consulting Based on Your Career

If you spent decades building expertise in a specific field, why not turn that experience into a consulting business?

Freelance consulting is one of the most rewarding and flexible options for retirees. It allows you to work with clients on your terms—remotely or in person—without the pressure of a full-time role. Whether your background is in HR, finance, education, project management, healthcare, or marketing, there’s likely a business, nonprofit, or individual that could use your guidance.

Real-World Examples:

• A retired HR director helping small businesses set up hiring processes
• A former project manager offering part-time operations consulting
• A retired nurse providing wellness program guidance to local organizations

Where to Start:

• Optimize your LinkedIn profile with your new “consultant” title
• Create a one-page overview of your services and experience
• Offer your expertise to former colleagues or connections
• Join Upwork, Clarity.fm, or reach out directly for referrals

Startup costs are minimal—just a computer, internet connection, and your knowledge. And with hourly rates ranging from $50 to $200+, freelance consulting can deliver both freedom and financial payoff.

 

 

#2 – Online Store (Etsy, Shopify, Amazon Handmade)

Got a knack for creating? Turning your hobby into an online store is one of the most enjoyable ways to generate income—without feeling like “work.”

Platforms like Etsy, Shopify, and Amazon Handmade make it easier than ever to sell everything from handmade goods and woodworking projects to print-on-demand mugs, shirts, and journals. Startup costs are low, and you can run the business from home at your own pace.

Real-World Inspiration:

Tom, a former architect and Retirepreneur community member, turned his love for woodworking into a thriving Etsy store. He now sells handcrafted cutting boards and earns steady monthly income—while still golfing twice a week.

What Sells Well:

• Jewelry, art prints, and home décor
• Personalized gifts and holiday items
• Digital products like planners or templates
• Wood, leather, or textile crafts

Tools to Get Started:

• Smartphone or camera for photos
• Online marketplace account (start with Etsy)
• Basic branding and product descriptions
• A way to ship or print on demand (Printify, ShipStation, etc.)

Selling online is ideal for hobbyists who want scalable income and creative joy. It’s your craft—turned into cash.

 

 

#3 – Local Service Business (Cleaning, Handyman, Pet Sitting)

Sometimes the best businesses are the simplest ones, especially in your own backyard.

Local service businesses like cleaning, handyman work, pet sitting, and lawn care are always in demand. These aren’t glamorous startups, but they offer real flexibility, immediate income, and low startup costs. If you're reliable, trustworthy, and enjoy helping neighbors, this is a great second-act option.

You’ll trade a bit of physical effort for a high degree of schedule control, working as much—or as little—as you want.

Test Demand in Your Area:

• Offer a free or discounted service to a few neighbors
• Post on Nextdoor, Facebook Marketplace, or local bulletin boards
• Ask local realtors or property managers if they need help

Pricing & Marketing Tips:

• Keep pricing simple (flat rate per visit or hour)
• Use referrals and word of mouth as your main engine
• Print simple flyers or postcards to leave in community centers
• Join neighborhood Facebook groups and offer limited-time specials

Whether it’s walking dogs, fixing leaky faucets, or tidying vacation homes, these “old-school” businesses still work—and retirees are often the most trusted pros around.

 

 

#4 – Tutoring or Online Teaching

If you’ve ever taught, coached, or mentored, you already have what it takes to succeed as a tutor or online instructor.

Retirees with a background in education—or even just a passion for helping others learn—are in high demand. You can teach test prep, ESL, math, writing, music, art, or even life skills. Best of all, you can teach virtually or locally, one-on-one or in small groups, depending on your comfort level.

Where to Teach:

• Wyzant and Varsity Tutors (private tutoring)
• Outschool (kids-focused live classes)
• Teachable or Udemy (self-paced courses)
• Local community centers, libraries, or senior centers

Earnings Expectations:

• $20–$75 per hour for live tutoring sessions
• $200–$2,000+ per month for evergreen online courses (once built)

Teaching lets you share your wisdom while making a difference—and the flexibility means you can teach from your living room or your lake house.

 

 

#5 – Freelance Writing or Editing

If you’ve got a way with words, freelance writing or editing could be your perfect second-act business.

From blog posts to business reports, nonprofit grants to memoir ghostwriting, there’s a steady demand for clear, compelling content. Retirees with experience in education, business, or communications often find writing to be a natural and fulfilling fit. Plus, it’s quiet, remote, and completely schedule-friendly—perfect for introverts or anyone who values solo time.

Niche Opportunities:

• Ghostwriting (books, articles, blogs)
• Blog or content writing for small businesses
• Grant writing for nonprofits
• Editing academic papers, resumes, or manuscripts

Where to Find Gigs:

• Upwork, Freelancer, and PeoplePerHour
• Direct outreach to local businesses or nonprofits
• Retirepreneur community and alumni networks

Getting Started:

• Take a short course (like Coursera, Writer’s Digest, or ProWritingAid Academy)
• Create a simple sample portfolio on Google Docs or LinkedIn
• Offer free or discounted projects to get testimonials

It’s a craft you can grow over time and one that lets you work from anywhere, at any pace.

 

 

#6 – Virtual Assistant or Bookkeeping

Small business owners are busy—and many are eager to hand off tasks to someone reliable, organized, and experienced. That’s where you come in.

As a Virtual Assistant (VA) or bookkeeper, you can provide behind-the-scenes support without ever stepping foot in an office. These roles are perfect for retirees who enjoy structure and admin tasks but want to work part-time and remotely.

Common Tasks:

• Managing inboxes and calendars
• Scheduling appointments and meetings
• Invoicing, data entry, and bill tracking
• Travel planning or social media support

Tools & Certifications:

• QuickBooks or Wave for bookkeeping
• Google Workspace, Zoom, and Trello for VA work
• Consider VA certification from The Virtual Savvy or bookkeeping training from Bookkeeper Launch

Platforms to Get Started:

• Belay, Boldly, and Time
• General gig sites like Upwork and Fiverr
• Your existing network—word of mouth is gold in this niche

This kind of business grows by trust and referrals—something retirees are well-positioned to earn.

 

 

#7 – Home-Based Food or Cottage Business

If you’re the one everyone raves about at potlucks or holidays, why not turn your talent into a small food business?

Many states now have “cottage food laws” that allow you to sell homemade goods directly to consumers—no commercial kitchen required. It’s a fun, flavorful business path that works well for retirees who enjoy cooking, baking, and sharing their creations locally.

Types of Goods That Sell:

• Baked goods (cookies, muffins, bread)
• Jams, jellies, and preserves
• Spices, sauces, or flavored oils
• Holiday gift baskets or themed treat boxes

Get Started With:

• Understanding your state’s cottage food laws (usually found on your state’s Department of Agriculture website)
• Basic packaging and food labeling
• Safe food handling certification (often required)

Where to Sell:

• Local farmers markets or craft fairs
• Neighborhood porch pickup or delivery
• Online groups (Facebook Marketplace, local “Buy Nothing” groups)

You don’t need to scale big—just start with something simple, delicious, and shareable. This kind of business feeds both your wallet and your community.

 

 

#8 – Coaching or Mentorship Services

If people have always come to you for advice, insight, or encouragement—you may be ready to step into coaching or mentorship.

This path allows you to help others grow by drawing on your own journey in business, leadership, or life. Unlike consulting, which is often solution-driven, coaching focuses on guiding clients to find their own answers. Mentorship can be more informal and relationship-based, especially for those just starting out.

Find Your Coaching Niche:

• Career transitions
• Leadership development
• Life balance and wellness
• Business startup or growth

How to Structure Your Offer:

• Create simple service “packages” (e.g., 4 sessions for $400)
• Offer one-on-one or small group formats
• Include clarity calls, written recaps, or worksheets for extra value

Build Your Online Presence:

• Launch a basic personal website or landing page
• Post valuable insights on LinkedIn, Instagram, or a blog
• Use tools like Calendly and Zoom for easy scheduling and delivery

This is a deeply fulfilling way to turn your experience into purpose—and empower others to write their next chapter with confidence.

 

 

#9 – Tour Guide or Airbnb Experience Host

If you live in a place people love to visit, you’re sitting on a business opportunity—literally.

Becoming a local tour guide or hosting an Airbnb Experience lets you share your town, talents, or hobbies with travelers looking for something more authentic than the usual tourist traps. You don’t need a travel agency or storefront—just passion, a bit of storytelling, and a good pair of walking shoes.

Popular Experience Ideas:

• Historic walking tours or ghost tours
• Nature hikes or photography walks
• Local food tastings or cooking lessons
• Craft workshops or cultural experiences

Getting Started:

• Sign up to host Airbnb Experiences or build a simple website
• Offer a free “test run” to friends or neighbors for feedback
• Keeping groups small and personalized—intimacy is part of the charm

What Guests Love in a Host:

• Warm, welcoming personality
• Local insights and great stories
• Good communication and follow-through

If you love your town and enjoy meeting new people, this business blends income with connection and community pride.

 

 

#10 – Content Creator: Blogging, Podcasting, or YouTube

Have a story to share, a hobby you love, or wisdom from your life and career? Content creation lets you turn your voice into value—and build an audience that grows over time.

Whether you enjoy writing, speaking, or being on camera, platforms like WordPress, Substack, YouTube, or Spotify make it easier than ever to start a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel. While it takes time to build momentum, content creation can eventually generate revenue, sponsorships, affiliate income, or even product sales.

Getting Started:

• Blogging: WordPress or Substack + simple email list
• Podcasting: A USB mic + tools like Buzzsprout or Anchor
• YouTube: Smartphone + Canva for thumbnails

Monetization Options:

• Ads (Google AdSense, YouTube Partner Program)
• Sponsorships from aligned brands
• Affiliate links to recommended products
• Paid courses, books, or premium content

Realistic Expectations:

• Most creators earn little in the first 6–12 months
• Consistency and authenticity are key
• Start as a passion project—it may grow into something more

This is a perfect outlet for retirees who want creative freedom, a voice, and a new way to connect.

 

 

You’re Not Starting Over--You’re Starting True

Retirement doesn’t mean sitting still, it means finally having the freedom to do what feels meaningful on your own terms.

Whether you want to earn extra income, stay mentally sharp, connect with others, or leave a legacy, the right business idea can help you achieve that. And as you’ve seen, the best retirement businesses aren’t about hustle, they’re about alignment. Low stress. High reward. Built around what matters most to you now.

Each idea in this list was chosen because it reflects what today’s retirees want:

• Flexibility without chaos
• Simplicity without boredom
• Purpose without pressure

You’ve already built a lifetime of knowledge, resilience, and wisdom. Now it’s time to use those strengths in a way that fits your life—not the other way around.

Maybe it’s consulting in your old industry. Maybe it’s selling your handmade crafts. Maybe it’s sharing your story on a podcast or teaching online from your kitchen table.

There’s no “right” path—but there is a right fit for you.

So, take a small step. Pick an idea. Try it out. You don’t have to build an empire—just something you love, on your terms.

You’re not starting over.
You’re starting true.