The gig economy is no longer just for the young. A new report reveals a dramatic increase in retirees picking up side hustles, fundamentally reshaping the landscape of flexible work across the United States.
According to data released on September 14, 2025, by the Federal Reserve, adults over the age of 65 are now the fastest-growing demographic in the gig workforce. The report found this group has expanded by nearly 40% in the last two years alone, a rate that far outpaces any other age bracket.
Researchers point to a combination of economic pressures and social shifts for the change. Rising living costs and inflation have made it difficult for many to rely solely on traditional retirement savings and social security. The study suggests that for many seniors, part-time gig work has become a necessary tool to supplement fixed incomes and maintain their standard of living.
What jobs are most popular?
The report highlights that retirees are not just taking any job, but are often leveraging their life experience and desire for flexibility. The most common side hustles for this demographic include:
- Consulting and online tutoring in their former professional fields.
- Driving for rideshare and food delivery apps due to the flexible hours.
- Selling handmade goods or crafts on e-commerce websites.
- Providing pet-sitting and property management services within their communities.
This trend signals a significant evolution in the concept of retirement. Instead of a complete stop from working, it is increasingly becoming a period of less intensive, more flexible work chosen on one’s own terms.
