More and more retirees are going back to work because rising inflation is making it harder to live on fixed incomes. Prices for everyday items like groceries, gas, and healthcare have increased so much that many people are finding their retirement savings don’t go as far as they used to. A recent survey by investment firm Schroders found that over 90% of retirees are worried inflation will drain their savings, and more than half aren't sure how long their money will last. Even those who carefully planned for retirement are struggling, as the cost of living keeps rising faster than their money can keep up. For many, returning to work is the only way to make ends meet.

As the cost of living continues to rise across the U.S., more Americans are turning to side hustles just to make ends meet. A recent survey from SideHustles.com found that 62% of people doing side gigs now rely on that extra income to afford basics like groceries, rent, and healthcare. Even though inflation has cooled slightly, many workers are still feeling the squeeze and say financial pressure is the main reason they started a side job. In fact, about two-thirds of respondents use at least half of their side hustle income to cover essentials, and some admit they've even skipped buying necessary items because money was too tight. With many juggling multiple gigs at once, it's clear that side hustles are no longer just for extra spending money—they’ve become a lifeline for financial survival.