Which are the most enjoyable jobs for older workers?
After many years in the workforce, it would seem natural for older Americans to look forward to their golden years. However, many people aged 55 or older continue to work and are quite content to do so.
According to a report, nearly 20% of Americans in the 60-plus age bracket were employed in 2023. Of those, 62% were working full-time. For comparison, only 11% of people this age were working in 1987, and the majority were working part-time.
In fact, a recent survey found that two-thirds of workers who are 55 or older say they are very satisfied with their jobs. Obviously, not all jobs are created equal. Some positions are more age-friendly than others. Experts say that older workers have distinct preferences and skills, such as a desire for fewer job hazards and greater autonomy.
Whether you’re looking to make some extra money while semi-retired or want an encore career, here are the most enjoyable jobs for seniors!
1. Tour guide
When it comes to the most enjoyable jobs, recent data shows tour guides as a top choice for those age 55 and older. These jobs rely heavily on skills such as interpersonal communication, which is a strength for many seniors.
As tour guides, you can bring unique insights and perspectives to the table that enrich travelers’ experiences in ways no one else could. What’s more, many tour guide positions come with flexibility, which means you have the possibility of choosing when to work. According to the AARP, job flexibility is valued by 79% of workers age 55 and older.
2. Clergy
A top concern for senior workers is having a job that provides meaning, and one of the most enjoyable jobs that ticks this off is that of clergy. At least that’s what a 2017 survey conducted by the Urban Institute showed, in which more than 6,000 workers participated.
Meaningful work was also cited as a main job requirement by 90% of workers age 40 and older who were surveyed in 2023 by AARP. And being a member of the clergy might come with other benefits for older workers as well.
AARP found that 90% of survey participants want to work with an organization with a good mission and values, and 79% value the chance to work with different generations. Both requirements may be found in many clergy positions.
3. Business owner
After years and years of taking orders from someone else, seniors may be ready to be their own bosses. That’s why one of the most enjoyable jobs for older workers is that of a business owner.
A large number of older individuals are ideally suited to entrepreneurship, experts point out. They are already experienced in business and life. They are also more likely to know and accept their true selves.
What’s even great about this job is that there’s no need to stick with your current industry. Data shows that some of the most successful business launches involve individuals who pivoted to a completely different field from the one they’ve been working in for decades.
4. Retail salesperson
No. 4 on the list of the most enjoyable jobs for seniors is that of a retail salesperson. While working in a store isn’t the most lucrative job available for older workers, it’s hard to beat when it comes to flexible hours.
Such job positions can be found in a wide range of stores, making it possible to find one that matches a person’s interests. These jobs also enable employees to interact with customers and share their knowledge, two attributes that can make the retail sales position one of the most enjoyable jobs for seniors.
After a high-pressure career, working in retail may be a welcome change of pace, and 78% of US hiring managers say they’ve seen an increase in the number of older applicants for entry-level positions. They are in demand too, with 62% of hiring managers saying they prefer to hire senior workers for these jobs.
5. Maintenance worker
Working in maintenance may not seem to fall among the most enjoyable jobs for seniors, but it can be a perfect position for older workers who want less stressful employment on a part-time or full-time basis.
According to Justin Guest, vice president of resident engagement for a senior community company, several people have transitioned into maintenance positions within the company. For residents of these communities who find work at their property, it gives them a chance to earn extra income without commuting.
In fact, an easy commute is a must-have job requirement for 89% of workers age 55 and older, according to an AARP report.
6. Financial planner
Working as a financial planner is also among the most enjoyable jobs for seniors. For those who have experience with investing, one of the best positions for older workers may be that of a financial planner.
The job lends itself well to flexible working arrangements and can also be done on a part-time basis for those seeking to be semi-retired.
A similar option would be an encore career in insurance sales, which experts also say is one of the most enjoyable jobs for seniors. Since the industry is all about building and maintaining relationships, older insurance sales agents benefit from the vast network of connections they’ve acquired throughout the years.
Overall, jobs in real estate, insurance, and finances have the highest average age-friendliness, according to a recent study. This makes them one of the most enjoyable jobs for seniors.
By the way, if you need a new financial planner notebook, there are lots of options to choose from!
7. Teacher
Schools value experienced educators and are often willing to meet their work needs. Postsecondary schools may seek out experienced professionals to teach on a part-time basis, while retired teachers are often welcomed back as substitutes.
According to experts, teaching as an adjunct (professor) is one of the most enjoyable jobs for seniors. It offers a chance to pass along your experience and skills to another generation.
Moreover, with the advent of online education, some positions may not even require instructors to travel to campus.
8. Consultant
If you enjoy your current career, there’s no reason to change fields when you get older. Instead of leaving your profession, you could switch from being an employee to a consultant.
Becoming a consultant on your own and in your field of endeavor is one of the most enjoyable jobs for older workers because it offers a chance to work at your own pace and set your hours while making an income.
Companies in a variety of fields, such as management, accounting, information technology, and business, may use consultants. In some cases, workers will take part in specific projects, while others may be hired to mentor new employees. Senior workers who have good relationships with their current employer may be able to keep working as consultants for their firm even after they retire.
9. Counselor or life coach
According to a recent study, working as a counselor is one of the most enjoyable jobs for older workers. Nearly 50% of those employed in this field report that they like or even love what they’re doing.
Counseling positions may have specific licensure and education requirements, depending on the state. Not all senior workers will qualify to work as counselors, but there’s a second option: the job of a life coach. While it’s similar to that of a counselor, it offers a less formal way to guide others.
Basically, life coaches draw on their extensive life experiences to help clients deal with challenges and achieve their goals.
If you liked our article on the most enjoyable jobs for seniors, you may also want to read 5 Best Tips for Handling Depression, Stress, and Anxiety in Retirement.
