For many, retirement is thought of as the moment to finally unwind and enjoy life at an easier pace. Yet, what some are finding is that the hobbies they love don’t just bring joy—they can also bring in extra income.

With costs rising and people living longer, adding even a modest income stream can make a meaningful difference.

And the best part? These opportunities are often fun, flexible, and shaped entirely around what you already enjoy doing.

1. Selling Artwork and Handmade Creations​

Jan Lawson didn’t pick up a paintbrush until she turned 60, but by 83 her acrylic paintings and collages were decorating galleries, coffeehouses, and even the walls of her retirement community.

She often hangs one of her latest pieces outside her door, sparking conversations that sometimes turn into sales.

“Sometimes I sell it to them. Sometimes I give it to them,” Lawson says. Whether it’s painting, woodworking, knitting, or pottery, local markets and online platforms make it easier than ever to share your creativity with buyers who appreciate it.

2. Photography That Pays Back​

If you’ve always loved taking pictures, stock photo websites can turn that hobby into a surprising source of royalties.

Finance expert Mark Slack explains: “Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Alamy will take the photos and license them to people, paying you each time they’re downloaded. The most popular categories, including business, travel, and lifestyle photography, tend to sell really well.”

Even casual shots of nature, hometown scenes, or everyday objects can find buyers, so retirees with a good eye can make their snapshots work for them.

3. Turning Land, Pools, and RVs Into Income​

Myrna and Bill Landers lived on their property for over two decades before deciding to list their pastures as an off-leash dog park on Sniffspot.

They not only earned meaningful income but also enjoyed meeting people (and pups) who came through.

“Sharing their land and their art with people and pups alike is a joy,” says Patrick McAndrew of American Wealth Planner. For others, it may be as simple as listing an unused pool on Swimply or an RV on Outdoorsy—flexible options that let you set your own schedule.

4. Puzzling Your Way Into Profit​

For Missy Walker of Winter Garden, Florida, jigsaw puzzles became more than just a pastime. “I love jigsaw puzzles. I solve puzzles at home. I play in puzzle competitions. And I’ve always loved puzzling fast,” Walker says.

After retirement, she launched a blog called Speed Puzzling Tips, which now reaches thousands monthly, and she sells gently used puzzles on Facebook Marketplace, proving even niche hobbies can attract a loyal audience and generate income.


Also read: Your old CDs could make you rich—Some are worth up to $10,000!

5. Growing and Selling From the Garden​

Plenty of retirees have turned their green thumbs into steady cash by selling herbs, vegetables, or flowers.

As Mark Slack notes, “If gardening is a passion of yours, you can definitely earn some money doing it! Selling your home-grown herbs, vegetables, or stylish plants in pots at farmer’s markets or in a small community-supported agriculture (CSA) environment is a great way to spread the love and earn some cash.”

Specializing in organic or hard-to-find produce can help gardeners carve out a niche and connect with health-conscious buyers.

Beyond the Obvious Hobbies​

Of course, the list doesn’t end there. As Camberato explains: “If you love being out on the water, get your captain’s license and start taking people out for boat tours.”

“If you’re into cars, buy and flip them for a profit. Plenty of people are looking for a good deal but don’t know how to find one. Use your knowledge to make money.” From private cooking lessons to teaching languages online, retirees are proving that almost any skill can be monetized if you take that first step.


Also read: 12 side hustles retirees wish they’d started sooner—are you missing out on extra cash?

Why It Matters​

Monetizing a hobby isn’t just about boosting retirement savings. Patrick McAndrew says: “Turning that hobby or creative venture into something exciting and meaningful financially has so many benefits, from shoring up retirement savings to increasing quality of life to staving off dementia.”

Extra income can help pay for travel, new projects, or simply provide peace of mind, but many retirees also enjoy the sense of purpose and connection it brings.

Read next: Strapped for Cash? Discover 19 Secret Tricks to Fatten Your Wallet Instantly!
Have you tried turning one of your hobbies into extra income? Did you start small with something like selling online, or go big with teaching or offering services? What advice would you share with others who are thinking about making the leap? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your stories and tips.