13 Low-Pressure Side Hustles for Workers in Their 50s

If you’re a professional in your 50s looking to earn extra income without adding stress to your life, there are plenty of side hustles that offer flexibility and low pressure. Whether you want to use your existing skills or explore something new, these opportunities can be both rewarding and manageable. With the right balance, you can find a side hustle that fits your schedule, interests, and lifestyle. These options enable you to work at your own pace, helping you achieve your financial goals without disrupting your daily routine.

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Freelance Writing or Editing

Freelance writing or editing is a fantastic side hustle for those who enjoy working with words and have strong language skills. For professionals in their 50s, it offers flexibility and control over their schedule, allowing them to work at their own pace. You can specialize in a particular niche, such as business, health, or technology, or write general content, including blog posts, articles, and product descriptions. This type of work often doesn’t come with the pressures of office environments or strict deadlines, making it a low-stress option.

Getting started as a freelance writer or editor involves building a portfolio to showcase your work. You can create your own website or use freelancing platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr to connect with clients. With experience, you can increase your rates and choose projects that align with your interests. As this is a job you can do from home, it provides the perfect balance of work and personal time.

Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistants offer administrative support to businesses and entrepreneurs without leaving the comfort of their homes. Tasks can range from managing calendars and scheduling meetings to answering emails or updating social media profiles. For professionals in their 50s, this role is appealing because it requires skills in organization, communication, and time management, which many individuals at this stage of their careers already possess. It’s also a low-stress side hustle because it usually involves repetitive tasks that become easier over time as you get accustomed to the client’s needs.

To start, you can research the types of services virtual assistants commonly offer and find niches where you have expertise, such as social media management or customer service. Websites like Belay or Time Etc. provide platforms to connect with clients looking for virtual assistants. As your client base grows, you may be able to set your own rates and work more flexible hours, making it a rewarding side hustle that works around your lifestyle.

Online Tutoring or Coaching

Online tutoring or coaching is an ideal side hustle for professionals who have expertise in a particular field, whether it’s math, languages, or even life coaching. This job allows you to share your knowledge and help others while earning money. The best part is that it is generally low-stress, especially if you enjoy mentoring and have a genuine interest in teaching. For professionals in their 50s, it can be a satisfying way to stay engaged while making use of years of accumulated knowledge and experience.

To get started, you can sign up with tutoring platforms such as VIPKid or Chegg Tutors, or offer coaching services through social media and a personal website. The hours are flexible, and you can choose to work with students from various age groups or focus on a specific demographic, such as business professionals or teenagers. If you enjoy helping others achieve their goals and working in a comfortable setting, this could be a perfect side hustle for you.

Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Pet sitting or dog walking is a simple and low-stress side hustle that many professionals in their 50s find rewarding. If you love animals, this is a great opportunity to earn extra income without the pressures of office work. It’s flexible and allows you to work on your own time, whether it’s during the day, evenings, or weekends. Pet sitting, in particular, can be done at the pet owner’s home, which means you’ll be able to interact with the animals while also helping with basic care, such as feeding or administering medication.

To start, sign up with platforms like Rover or Wag to connect with pet owners in your area. You can also build a local clientele by offering services in your neighborhood. As this side hustle is relatively low-stress, it can be a fun way to get some exercise, enjoy companionship, and make extra money while maintaining your work-life balance.

Freelance Graphic Design

For individuals with a background in art or design, freelance graphic design is a great low-stress side hustle. You can create logos, marketing materials, websites, and more while working from home. Since graphic design is a skill that can be refined over time, you can set your own hours and take on as many or as few projects as you want. For professionals in their 50s, this side hustle is ideal for those who enjoy creativity and can work independently.

To get started, you can use platforms like Fiverr, 99designs, or Upwork to showcase your portfolio and attract clients. Having a portfolio of past work or personal projects can also help attract clients. The flexibility of freelance graphic design allows you to work around your schedule, making it a great fit for anyone looking to earn extra income without the stress of a full-time job.

Transcription Services

Transcription services involve listening to audio files and typing out the spoken content. This is a great side hustle for professionals in their 50s who have strong typing skills and attention to detail. Transcription is generally low-stress because it allows you to work at your own pace, and you can choose the projects you take on. Whether it’s transcribing medical notes, interviews, or podcasts, there is a growing demand for transcriptionists.

To start, you can sign up with websites like Rev, TranscribeMe, or Freelancer to find transcription work. It’s important to practice your typing speed and accuracy to improve your chances of getting hired for more projects. As a transcriptionist, you can work in the evenings or weekends, making it an ideal side hustle that doesn’t interfere with your daily commitments.

Selling Handmade Crafts or Art

If you enjoy crafting or creating art, selling handmade items is a perfect side hustle. Whether it’s knitting, pottery, painting, or woodworking, you can turn your hobbies into income. Platforms like Etsy or local craft fairs provide a great way to sell your products and connect with buyers. For professionals in their 50s, this side hustle offers a creative outlet and the ability to set your own pace, making it a low-stress way to make extra money.

To get started, choose a craft or art form you’re passionate about and create a few pieces to start. Set up an online store, and use social media to promote your work. With dedication and a bit of marketing, you can grow your brand and sell your creations to a broader audience. Selling handmade crafts or art offers flexibility and satisfaction while allowing you to use your creativity.

Social Media Management

For individuals familiar with social media platforms, managing accounts for small businesses or individuals can be a great side hustle. Social media management involves creating content, scheduling posts, and engaging with followers. It’s a low-stress option for professionals in their 50s who are comfortable with digital tools and enjoy communicating online. You don’t need to be a tech expert; just a solid understanding of social media trends and branding will suffice.

To get started, reach out to local businesses or individuals looking to grow their online presence. You can also use freelance platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to find clients. Managing social media accounts can be done in your free time, making it an ideal side hustle that can be worked into your existing schedule.

E-commerce Reselling

E-commerce reselling involves purchasing products at a lower price and reselling them for a profit through online platforms like eBay, Amazon, or Poshmark. This is an excellent side hustle for professionals in their 50s who enjoy the thrill of finding bargains and have a good sense of trends. Reselling can be done part-time, and the tasks are often low-stress, such as photographing products, writing descriptions, and managing inventory.

To get started, you can start by sourcing products from thrift stores, clearance sales, or online marketplaces. Once you have your inventory, set up your online store and list your products. With some dedication, this side hustle can bring in consistent income without overwhelming your schedule.

Online Surveys and Product Testing

While not the most lucrative option, online surveys and product testing are easy and low-stress side hustles that can be done in your spare time. Many companies pay for consumer feedback on products, services, and advertisements. This is a simple way for professionals in their 50s to make a little extra cash without dedicating too much time or effort. The work is minimal, and you can do it whenever it’s convenient for you.

To start, sign up for legitimate survey sites such as Swagbucks, InboxDollars, or Pinecone Research. Make sure to research each site to avoid scams. While this side hustle won’t bring in a large income, it’s a stress-free way to earn some extra money during downtime.

Online Selling (Books, Antiques, Collectibles)

Selling books, antiques, or collectibles online is an excellent side hustle for professionals who have a keen eye for valuable items. Whether you are decluttering your home or sourcing unique items from thrift stores, you can sell these products on platforms like eBay or Amazon. For those with knowledge in specific niches, like vintage items or rare books, this side hustle can be both enjoyable and profitable, with minimal stress.

To start, gather items you no longer need or find collectibles from garage sales or thrift shops. Research their value and list them online. With a bit of experience, you can establish a profitable side hustle while indulging your interest in rare and vintage items.

Mystery Shopping

Mystery shopping is a low-stress side hustle where you evaluate customer service and report on your experiences at stores, restaurants, or online services. This side hustle is ideal for professionals in their 50s who enjoy evaluating services without having to deal with heavy workloads. The tasks are simple, and you can complete them during your regular outings, making it convenient and flexible.

To get started, register with mystery shopping companies like BestMark, Market Force, or Secret Shopper. You’ll be paid for your evaluations, and you can choose assignments that fit your schedule. Mystery shopping is an easy and fun way to earn some extra cash without the stress of a traditional job.

Personal Shopper or Stylist

For professionals with a good eye for fashion and an interest in helping others, being a personal shopper or stylist can be a fun and low-stress side hustle. You can assist individuals with choosing clothing or accessories that suit their personal style and body type. This side hustle is a great fit for anyone who enjoys shopping but wants to avoid the hectic pace of retail work.

To get started, create a portfolio showcasing your fashion knowledge, and consider offering your services to friends and family first. Once you’re confident in your skills, you can advertise online or join platforms like Stitch Fix. You can work on your own schedule, making this a stress-free, enjoyable side hustle.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.