Becoming an empty nester is a huge life transition. The era affords extra time and newfound freedom, so it’s the perfect opportunity to explore hobbies that bring you joy—and maybe even a little extra income! Whether you’re looking to make a career shift or just want to fund your next adventure, here are five empty nester hobbies that can turn a profit.
Baking
If you’ve always loved whipping up treats in the kitchen, why not turn your passion for baking into a business? There’s always a demand for homemade goodness, from beautiful custom cakes to unique cookies and pastries. You can sell your baked goods at farmers markets, take custom orders for events, or even set up an online shop. Once the word spreads about your delicious creations, the orders will follow.
Classic Car Modding
If you love rolling up your sleeves and working with your hands, classic car modding could be for you. Restoring vintage vehicles or giving them a fresh, modern twist can be highly rewarding. That ‘66 Mustang you’ve been eyeing? It could turn into a prized piece that fetches a serious profit when you resell it. The community around classic car lovers and buyers is passionate, and talented modders are always in demand. If you know what to look for when buying your first classic car, you’ll make a good investment.
Writing
Whether it’s memoirs, blogs, freelance articles, or novels, writing can be both a creative outlet and an income stream. You can self-publish, ghostwrite for others, or contribute to online platforms. Many businesses pay freelance writers for web content or marketing materials. Writing offers endless possibilities and lets you work on your schedule. Plus, sharing your stories or expertise could even lead to a stronger sense of purpose in your golden years.
Photography
If you’ve got an eye for detail and a knack for snapping the perfect shot, photography might interest you. From family portraits to product photography, there are plenty of opportunities to turn your skill into a profitable side gig. Many photographers start small by offering their services locally or selling prints online. With some practice and a strong portfolio, photography can turn into a rewarding small business.
Woodworking
Woodworking is all about hands-on artisanship, and it affords the satisfaction of creating something beautifully functional. Whether you’re building furniture or crafting small items like cutting boards, these handcrafted goods are sure to be best sellers. Etsy or local craft fairs are good spots to showcase your work and connect with customers who appreciate custom designs.
If you’re now an empty nester, consider picking up these hobbies because they’re satisfying and can turn a profit. This is your moment to explore, create, and thrive! You might just uncover talents you never knew you had.
