Retired or thinking of retiring, or simply leaving a full-time job, but you still want to have some extra cash? If you’re a woman over 50, you may be looking for ways to earn a little extra income while staying flexible, finding purpose, and (hopefully) enjoying what you do. Whether you’re retired, an empty nester, or just ready to take on something new, these side hustles for women can be a great way to have an extra income stream without a huge commitment. From sharing your skills to exploring passions like baking or crafts, there are side hustles perfect for every personality type. This blog just so happens to be my side hustle.
Here are some of the best side hustles for women in 2025 who want to join the gig economy with minimal upfront investment.
How to Become a Virtual Assistant: A Flexible Side Hustle for Women Over 50
Virtual Assistant (VA) work is one of those lesser-known professions that’s rapidly growing in demand! Many bloggers, influencers (including me), and business owners rely on VAs to handle administrative and technical tasks. Personally, hiring a VA has given me more time to focus on writing content—the part of my job I love most.
What Does a Virtual Assistant Do?
As a VA, you’ll help small business owners or entrepreneurs with tasks like email management, scheduling, and managing social media. All you need to get started is good communication skills, an organized mindset, basic tech knowledge, and a reliable computer. Some VAs even specialize in areas like marketing or event planning.
How to Get Started as a Virtual Assistant
- Take a VA course to refine your skills (many are available online).
- Create a portfolio showcasing your past work and testimonials.
- Market yourself on platforms like LinkedIn or Upwork.
How Much Can You Earn?
VAs typically charge $25–$75 per hour, depending on their expertise and services. Many also offer monthly retainers for recurring tasks.
Starting a Pet Sitting or Dog Walking Business
I know a few people who have created a rather lucrative side hustle by pet sitting. If you’re an animal lover, pet sitting or dog walking could be a rewarding way to earn money. Apps like Rover and Wag make it easy to get started, though they do take a portion of your fees. For more flexibility and potential earnings, you might consider starting your own business.
How to Start a Pet Sitting Business
- Build references by offering services to neighbors or friends at a reduced rate.
- Advertise your services in neighborhood newsletters, local social media groups, or even with creative signage in community spaces.
- Decide what type of pets you’ll care for—dogs, cats, or even more exotic animals like reptiles or birds.
How Much Can You Earn As A Petsitter?
Earnings depend on the services you provide. For instance, overnight pet sitting can pay up to $90 per night, while daily visits or dog walking start at around $20 per hour. With the increasing demand for reliable pet care, this can become a lucrative side hustle.
How much money can you make pet sitting?
This really all depends on the services you offer. I had a petsitter who stayed in my home when I traveled and took care of my 2 dogs and cat. I’m an obsessive pet parent so it was important to me to have someone with them most of the time. I paid her $90 per night so you can certainly make great money doing this. If you just want to do daily visits and feedings, you can still make plenty of money as visits and/or walks typically start at $20 per hour. There is great demand for pet sitters these days.
Online Tutoring or Teaching is a Lucrative Part-Time Job For Retired Teachers
Were you great at math or science in school? Or better yet, were you a teacher? Online tutoring is in high demand, especially as students and parents look for extra help with homework and test prep. The beauty of tutoring is that you can work flexible hours that fit your schedule.
How to Become an Online Tutor
If you want to join an established platform, check out companies like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, or tutor.com for their specific requirements. Alternatively, you can work independently by advertising your services locally or online. Use social media, community groups, or even your connections with local schools to promote yourself.
How Much Can You Earn?
Tutors typically charge between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on the subject and your expertise. For advanced subjects like calculus or SAT prep, you may charge even more.
Starting an Etsy Shop to Sell Your Crafts
Are you crafty or creative? I, for one, am an Etsy addict for finding really unique gifts. If you make any kind of craft – jewelry, candles, knitted items, or wood crafts – selling them in an online store is one of today’s good side hustles and a great path to financial independence. If you have basic graphic design skills, you can also use tools like Canva to create downloadable items like printables, planners, templates, or art.
What does it cost to start an Etsy Shop?
Setting up your Etsy shop is simple:
- Factor in Etsy’s small listing fees when pricing your items.
- Choose a catchy name for your shop that reflects your craft.
- Upload high-quality photos of your products to attract buyers.
Baking Cakes and Cookies is a Great Side Hustle
If you have a knack for baking, you can turn your passion into profit by selling treats like cakes, cupcakes, or cookies for birthdays, weddings, and other events. Farmers’ markets are also a great place to sell items like muffins or bread. This is definitely one of the most popular, but in demand, side hustles for women.
How to Promote Your Baking Business
Start by sharing your creations on social media to attract local customers. Word of mouth is powerful, so offer free samples to friends or neighbors to spread the word. Be sure to check your local regulations for home kitchens, as some areas require licensing to sell food.
Freelance Writing as a Side Gig
Good with words? Freelance writing is a side hustle that offers flexibility and consistent income. Many companies hire freelance writers for blog posts, website content, and even social media management.
How to Start as a Freelance Writer
When I first started freelance writing, I volunteered with a local charity to write their newsletter. This helped me build a portfolio and gain confidence in my skills. You can also pitch your services to small businesses or use platforms like Upwork to find gigs.
Using Your Professional Skills Is A Great Side Hustle For Women
If your background is in business admin, such as bookkeeping or data entry, you can market yourself to small businesses who may not be able to afford to hire other companies to provide these services. Many professional skills are in high demand. You can use your professional background to consult in fields like HR, marketing, business management, or personal finance. I, myself, was a PR professional for many years and spent the past 10 years as a freelance consultant for businesses. Many small businesses don’t want the overhead expense fo full-time employees so there is great demand for freelance consultants.
How to Market Your Professional Skills to Small Businesses as a Consultant
Start by updating your resume with your professional experience and areas of specialization, as well as any certifications or advanced training. Use sites like LinkedIn, Upwork, or Fiverr to market yourself. Have business cards made and visit local small businesses to offer your skills.
Start a Home Organizing Business
Starting a home organizing business can be a great side hustle, especially for those who love tidiness, efficiency, and helping others create order in their lives. With the growing popularity of minimalist living, tiny homes, and influencers like Marie Kondo and The Home Edit, many people want organized homes but lack the time or know-how to achieve it. You don’t need a lot of initial investment, as organizing typically requires minimal equipment and supplies. Some organizers begin with just basic storage solutions and organizing bins, which can be gradually expanded as needed.
How to Promote Your Home Organizing Business
Word-of-mouth referrals are often the best source of new business, so ensure each client has a positive experience. Start by promoting within your circle—friends, family, and local community groups. Offer free or discounted sessions to build a portfolio.
Side hustles are a fantastic way for women over 50 to explore new opportunities, stay active, and earn money on their terms. Whether you choose to bake, teach, or dive into the world of virtual assistance, there’s something out there for you.
Ready to get started? Pick from many of the side hustles for women that excites you, and start small—you might surprise yourself with how far you can go!