Life after 50 often brings new priorities—planning for retirement, enjoying more free time, or finding ways to make money without a full-time commitment. For many women, this is the perfect time to explore side hustles.
The great news? You don’t need to be a tech expert or work 60 hours a week to earn extra income. Today’s world offers flexible opportunities, from work-from-home jobs to online businesses and even passive income streams that continue paying long after the work is done.
This guide will walk you through 15 of the best side hustles for women over 50—plus some helpful tools and products (available on Amazon) to help you get started.
Why Side Hustles Are Perfect After 50
At this stage in life, you may be thinking more seriously about:
- Boosting your retirement savings
- Earning extra income for travel or hobbies
- Staying active and engaged with meaningful work
- Building a financial safety net for the future
The best side hustles for women over 50 offer flexibility, low startup costs, and the freedom to work on your own terms.
1. Freelance Writing and Editing
If you love writing or have strong grammar skills, freelance writing is a fantastic way to earn money from home. Blogs, websites, and businesses all need fresh content.
- What you’ll need: A laptop, internet connection, and a reliable writing tool.
- Income potential: $20–$100 per article, depending on the topic.
💡 Amazon Pick: Ergonomic Laptop Stand – Helps you work comfortably and avoid neck strain while writing for long hours.
2. Virtual Assistant Work
A virtual assistant (VA) helps small business owners with email, scheduling, and social media. If you’re organized and detail-oriented, this can be a rewarding side hustle.
- Skills needed: Organization, communication, and basic computer knowledge.
- Income potential: $15–$40 per hour.
💡 Amazon Pick: Daily Planner and Organizer – Perfect for managing multiple clients and keeping track of tasks.
3. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel
Sharing your knowledge or passions can eventually grow into passive income. Blogging and YouTube allow you to earn through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
- Niches that work well: Lifestyle over 50, health, recipes, travel, or money tips.
- Income potential: $100 to several thousand per month, once established.
💡 Amazon Pick: Beginner Vlogging Kit with Tripod and Microphone – Affordable and ideal for filming your first YouTube videos.
4. Online Tutoring
If you’ve ever taught or have strong subject knowledge, online tutoring can be a stable side hustle.
- Platforms: VIPKid, Chegg, or Wyzant.
- Income potential: $15–$40/hour.
💡 Amazon Pick: Logitech HD Webcam – A high-quality camera makes online lessons more professional.
5. Selling Handmade Products
Turn your hobbies into income by selling on Etsy, Amazon Handmade, or local craft fairs.
- Jewelry, knitted scarves, candles, or artwork sell especially well.
- You can start small and grow as demand increases.
💡 Amazon Pick: Craft Starter Kit for Jewelry Making – Great for women who want to start selling handmade items online.
6. Online Surveys and Market Research
While not a huge income stream, surveys and product testing can provide a little extra cash.
- Websites: Swagbucks, Pinecone Research, and Survey Junkie.
- Income potential: $50–$200 per month, depending on time spent.
💡 Amazon Pick: Noise-Canceling Headphones – Useful when multitasking or filling out surveys in a busy environment.
7. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
If you love animals, this is one of the most enjoyable side hustles out there.
- Apps to use: Rover or Wag.
- Income potential: $15–$30 per walk/sitting session.
💡 Amazon Pick: Pet Sitting Travel Kit – A practical backpack for carrying treats, leashes, and water bottles.
8. Real Estate Investing
For women who have some savings, real estate can provide passive income.
- Options include renting out a home, investing in real estate crowdfunding, or Airbnb hosting.
- This can build wealth over time and provide steady retirement income.
💡 Amazon Pick: Books on Real Estate Investing for Beginners – A great resource to learn strategies before jumping in.
9. Online Reselling
Reselling items on eBay, Poshmark, or Facebook Marketplace is one of the easiest ways to make money.
- Start with items you already own.
- Expand by thrifting and reselling for profit.
💡 Amazon Pick: Photography Lightbox for Product Pictures – Helps your resale items look professional and appealing online.
10. Coaching or Consulting
Leverage your life or career experience by becoming a coach or consultant.
- Options include life coaching, career coaching, or health consulting.
- You can charge hourly or sell packages.
💡 Amazon Pick: Professional Notebook and Pen Set – Useful for client sessions and keeping track of progress.
11. Renting Out Extra Space
If you have extra space, turn it into cash.
- Airbnb: Rent out a spare room.
- Neighbor.com: Rent storage space.
- Local options: Rent parking spots in high-demand areas.
💡 Amazon Pick: Home Security Camera System – Provides peace of mind when renting out space.
12. Social Media Management
Businesses need help with Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. If you enjoy social media, this can be fun and profitable.
- Income potential: $15–$50/hour depending on clients.
- Perfect for creative women who love online engagement.
💡 Amazon Pick: Content Planner Journal – Helps you plan and track posts for clients.
13. Proofreading and Transcription
If you’re detail-oriented, proofreading and transcription work can be done entirely online.
- Platforms: Rev, Scribie, or freelance platforms.
- Income potential: $15–$45/hour.
💡 Amazon Pick: Blue Light Blocking Glasses – Protects your eyes when working long hours on a computer.
14. Delivery and Rideshare
Apps like Uber, Lyft, Instacart, or DoorDash offer flexible opportunities to earn.
- You choose when and how much you work.
- Great for supplementing other side hustles.
💡 Amazon Pick: Car Phone Mount & Charger Combo – Essential for rideshare or delivery drivers.
15. Selling Digital Products
Digital products like ebooks, courses, or printables can generate passive income.
- Platforms: Etsy, Teachable, Amazon Kindle.
- Products can be created once and sold repeatedly.
💡 Amazon Pick: Canva Mastery Guidebook – Learn how to design and sell digital products with ease.
Tips for Picking the Best Side Hustle After 50
- Choose something you actually enjoy—passion makes it sustainable.
- Look for side hustles that offer flexibility around your lifestyle.
- Start small and scale as your confidence and income grow.
- Invest in a few helpful tools (like planners, cameras, or craft supplies) to make the process smoother.
Final Thoughts
Side hustles for women over 50 are more than just a way to earn extra income—they’re a path toward financial freedom, independence, and confidence. From freelance writing to coaching or even selling crafts online, there’s an opportunity that fits your skills and lifestyle.
And remember: it’s never too late to start. Whether your goal is to supplement your retirement income, save for travel, or build a small online business, these side hustles can open doors to new opportunities.
