A significant number of American workers are engaging in side hustles, with 72% either currently involved or considering taking on additional work, as highlighted in SurveyMonkey’s 2025 study on workplace culture and trends.
The survey indicated that financial motivation, such as saving for specific objectives and the necessity for supplemental income, drives many individuals to pursue side jobs. Given the current inflationary pressures, many have experienced escalating costs at grocery stores, underscoring the appeal of extra earnings.
The Rise of Side Hustles
Increasing living expenses are a prominent factor prompting individuals to seek side hustles. For those who have not yet reached peak earning years, additional income serves to mitigate living costs and facilitate early investment and savings.
Additionally, older adults can also gain from part-time opportunities during inflationary periods. A Western & Southern Financial Group survey revealed that while most Americans expect Social Security to be their primary retirement income source, side hustles rank among the top three anticipated income streams across age groups: 39% for Gen Z, 41% for millennials, 42% for Gen X, and 38% for baby boomers.
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Side Hustles for Retirees
Engaging in side hustles can extend beyond financial gain, offering retirees a renewed sense of purpose post-full-time employment. Many such opportunities provide flexible scheduling, making part-time work an attractive option during semi-retirement.
Possible part-time roles for retirees may encompass tutoring, guiding tours, proofreading, or serving as a school crossing guard or bus monitor. Additionally, retirees can monetize hobbies, including selling crafts or providing pet-sitting services.
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Discovering a Side Hustle
The profitability of side hustles can vary, making it crucial to avoid unfulfilling engagements, especially for retirees appreciating their newfound freedom. A practical starting point is to identify professional skills that can be monetized for approximately five to ten hours weekly, followed by researching opportunities aligned with those skills.
This strategy facilitates the pursuit of side gigs that correspond with one’s expertise, ultimately easing the potential for price increases over time.
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Platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and TaskRabbit present avenues for employment based on individual skill sets. Moreover, local Facebook groups and websites like Nextdoor can provide insights into neighborhood demands, enabling users to promote their services effectively.