Fun Jobs That Pay Well: Because Life’s Too Short for Work You Hate

Have you ever been caught at work Googling fun jobs that pay well, during an insufferable shift you secretly hate?  Same girl……SAME. 

You’re not doing anything wrong — you’re just done settling.  You want a job that fits your life — not the other way around. The good news?  This is your sign to stop settling.

Boring work isn’t the price you have to pay to make money. Some of the most enjoyable jobs are still wide open because most people never think to even look for them.

Life’s too short to dread your workday. And believe it or not, you can enjoy what you do and still pay the bills. You get to have your cake and eat it too!

So, grab a fork and let’s talk about them. 😉

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TL;DR: Quick Answer

Let’s be real. Most fun jobs that pay well sound too good to be true.

But at the end of the day, there are many companies dishing out healthy wages to regular people for real experience and honest opinions. No degree or fancy school required.  Only  real-life every day people, just like you, telling it like it is!  And they’re more than happy to pay for it.

High Paying Fun Jobs List

Before you roll your eyes, know this: every job below is real, pays real money, and exists because someone out there is willing to pay you to do it. These aren’t just “fun jobs” you wish existed — they’re fun jobs that do exist because people need them to.

These jobs pay because the work actually matters, and not everyone wants or is even qualified to do them.  But in reality, I think the majority of people have no idea these jobs are even out there, so that’s why you’re already ahead of the game.

Career data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that many non-traditional jobs are growing as more people look for flexible, experience-based work.

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15 Fun Jobs That Pay Well in 2026

1. Chocolate Taste Tester

Yes, this is a real job.  And yes, it’s one of those fun jobs that pay well and that people don’t believe area even real until they see it for themselves!

Chocolate taste testers are basically living the dream. You eat chocolate, then tell people how it tastes. That’s the job. 

You sample different chocolates and rate things like flavor, texture, smell, and overall “would I buy this again?” vibes.  Some testers work with big food companies, others help smaller brands or research firms decide if their chocolate is “shelf-worthy” before it ever hits the stores.

Yes, this is a real job. Yes, someone gets paid for this. And yes, we’re all a little jealous. Hell, we’re a LOT jealous! Lol.

Why It Pays Well

Chocolate is expensive to produce. If a product flops, companies lose money. That’s why they pay for honest feedback before selling it to the public.

You’re helping brands avoid bad launches and costly mistakes.

How Much It Can Pay

Pay depends on the company and role, but many testers earn:

• Hourly pay for tasting sessions
• Flat fees per testing round
• Higher pay for repeat or trained testers

Most roles work best as a side hustle, not a full-time job.

What You Need to Know

• Most roles are contract or seasonal
• You’ll need to give detailed notes, not just opinions
• Food, sensory, or quality testing experience helps but isn’t always required
• Some companies have rules (no perfume, no eating beforehand, palate resets)

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll taste small samples, cleanse your palate, then answer questions about sweetness, texture, aftertaste, and overall quality. It’s focused, detailed work — not eating candy all day.

Still, it beats a lot of boring jobs.

Where to Find Chocolate Taste Tester Jobs

Look for job opportunities through:

• Food product testing companies
• Market research firms
• Large food brand career pages
• University or lab-based sensory testing programs

Try searching on Google for:

• “food product tester”
• “sensory panelist”
• “taste tester jobs”

Who This Is Best For

• People who are detail-oriented
• Anyone interested in food testing or reviewing
• Those looking for fun easy jobs or high paying fun jobs on the side

This is one of those fun jobs to have that sounds too good to be true — until you realize how seriously companies take the work.

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2. Writer for Fortune Cookies

Yes, someone actually writes those tiny messages inside fortune cookies. And yes, it’s another one of those super fun jobs that pay well that most people would never actually think about (let alone think it was a real job!).

Fortune cookie writers get paid to come up with those tiny little messages we all read before cracking the cookie in half.

You know. The hopeful ones. The funny ones. The “wow that was oddly accurate” ones.

They write short, positive, clever lines that get printed and tucked inside cookies at restaurants and takeout spots everywhere. Some work directly with manufacturers. Others submit batches of sayings on contract.

Why It Pays Well

Writing thousands of short messages sounds easy, but coming up with original, clean, and repeat-proof lines is harder than it looks. Companies pay for creativity that fits their brand and won’t offend anyone.

But one bad line can mean a full reprint. And reprints are not cute – and they cost money!

How Much It Can Pay

Pay varies, but writers often earn:

• Flat fees per batch of sayings
• Payment per approved line
• Contract pay for ongoing submissions

This is usually a side hustle, but a fun one that stacks nicely over time.

What You Need to Know

• Messages must be short, clear, and positive
• No copyrighted quotes or famous sayings
• Humor helps, but clean humor works best
• Writing experience is helpful, not required

If you enjoy wordplay, this is one of the most fun creative jobs out there.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll brainstorm dozens (sometimes hundreds) of short lines, submit them, then revise based on feedback. It’s more thinking than typing, but it’s flexible and low stress.

Perfect for people who like creative work without deadlines (or managers) breathing down their neck.

Where to Find Fortune Cookie Writing Jobs

Look for job opportunities through:

• Fortune cookie manufacturers
• Food packaging companies
• Freelance writing boards
• Open submission pages on manufacturer websites

Try searching on Google for:

• “fortune cookie writer”
• “short-form writing jobs”
• “creative writing contract jobs”

Who This Is Best For

• Creative thinkers
• Writers who enjoy short formats
• People looking for fun work from home jobs
• Anyone wanting a low-pressure creative side hustle

This is one of those fun jobs to have that sounds silly at first — until you realize how many cookies are cracked open every day.

3. Ice Cream Tester

YES, this is a real job.

And YES, it’s one of those fun jobs that pay well that honestly sounds fake until you realize… there’s actual responsibility involved.

Ice cream testers don’t just eat ice cream for fun. They sample new flavors, textures, and combos before they ever hit stores. Brands use their feedback to decide which flavors make the cut and which ones quietly vanish like they never even existed.

Your taste buds are basically making executive decisions.  So, no pressure or anything. 😉

Why It Pays Well

Ice cream brands don’t just wing it. New flavors cost real money, and a bad launch is embarrassing and expensive.

So, before anything hits the freezer aisle, they want brutally honest feedback. Not “it’s fine.” Real opinions. Clear details. What works, what doesn’t, and what should never see daylight again.

That’s why they pay testers who can straight up explain what their taste buds are thinking. Because one wrong flavor can turn into a very pricey regret.

Liking ice cream isn’t enough — useful feedback is what gets paid.

How Much It Can Pay

Pay depends on the company and role, but testers often earn:

• Hourly pay for tasting sessions
• Flat fees per testing round
• Higher rates for trained or repeat testers

Most roles are part-time or contract, making this a solid side hustle.

What You Need to Know

• Most roles are seasonal or contract-based
• You’ll taste small samples, not full bowls
• You’ll be asked to rate flavor, texture, and sweetness
• Food or sensory experience helps, but isn’t required

This is one of those fun easy jobs that still takes focus.

What the Work Is Really Like

Testing sessions usually happen in labs or testing rooms. You’ll sample ice cream, cleanse your palate, then fill out surveys or reports. It’s organized and repetitive — but still way more fun than most jobs.

Sugar overload can happen, so pacing matters.

Where to Find Ice Cream Tester Jobs

Look for Job opportunities through:

• Ice cream brand career pages
• Food testing and research firms
• Market research companies
• University sensory testing programs

Try Searching on Google for:

• “ice cream tester”
• “food product testing jobs”
• “Sensory panelist jobs”

Who This Is Best For

• People with strong attention to detail
• Anyone interested in food testing or reviewing
• Those looking for fun jobs for women or fun jobs for teens (note: age limits might apply)
• Anyone just wanting a flexible, fun side hustle

Ice cream testing is one of those fun jobs to have that proves enjoyable work can still pay — as long as the feedback is honest.

4. Mattress Tester

If you’ve ever flopped onto a bed in a store and thought, “I could pass out immediately”, congrats hun….you’re already halfway qualified!

Mattress testing is one of those fun jobs that pay well that sounds fake until you realize how seriously sleep companies take comfort. This is very much a get paid to sleep situation… with notes!

Mattress testers sleep on different beds and report back on things like comfort, support, temperature, and overall sleep quality. Some work directly with mattress brands. Others do it through research studies or review platforms.

Yes, napping is involved.
No, it’s not just napping.

Turns out, sleep is big business.

Why It Pays Well

Mattresses are expensive. Like reeeeally expensive. Companies don’t want to launch a mattress that gives people back pain or makes them sweat all night.

Your honest sleep experience helps them avoid bad reviews and refunds — and that’s worth paying for.

How Much It Can Pay

Pay varies, but mattress testers often earn:

• Flat fees for testing periods
• Hourly pay for sleep studies
• Free or discounted mattresses (huge perk)

Some testers make this a short-term gig, while others stack it with blogging or reviews for extra income.

What You Need to Know

• Most roles are temporary or contract-based
• You’ll need to track sleep quality and comfort
• Some roles require written reports or surveys
• You may test multiple mattresses over weeks

This is one of those fun jobs to have that sounds lazy — until you realize how much notetaking is actually involved.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll sleep on the mattress for a set amount of time, then report back on how you felt when you woke up. Too firm? Too soft? Did you wake up sweaty for no reason? Did your back feel better… or file a complaint?

It’s very “soooo how is your body feeling today?” energy. And honestly? It’s kinda empowering.

Where to Find Mattress Tester Jobs

Look for jobs through:

• Mattress brand websites
• Sleep research studies
• Product testing platforms
• Review and testing websites

Try searching on Google for:

• “mattress tester”
• “sleep study participant”
• “product testing sleep”

Who This Is Best For

• People who love sleep (obviously)
• Anyone with strong attention to detail
• Bloggers or reviewers looking for content ideas
• Those searching for fun work from home jobs or high paying fun jobs

Mattress testing is proof that some jobs that are fun still take effort — but the effort involves pajamas, not spreadsheets.

5. Dog Walker

If you love dogs more than people, this one probably already has your attention.

Dog walking is one of those fun jobs that pay well that looks easy from the outside, then quietly turns into real, steady money.  Professional dog walkers get paid to walk dogs while owners are at work, traveling, or just plain overwhelmed by life.  Some walkers go solo; others use apps or work with local pet services.

You’re basically getting paid to exercise, get fresh air, and hang out with dogs who think you’re the highlight of their day. Zero complaints.

How Much It Can Pay

Dog walkers often earn:

• Pay per walk
• Higher rates for longer walks
• Extra pay for multiple dogs
• Tips from happy clients

Many walkers build this into a high paying fun job by stacking clients and repeat bookings.

What You Need to Know

• You need to be reliable (this matters more than experience)
• Comfortable handling different dog sizes and personalities
• Weather doesn’t stop the job (rain, snow, all of it)
• Insurance or bonding helps once you grow

This is one of those fun easy jobs that turns serious once people depend on you.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll be walking dogs on schedules — sometimes early mornings, lunch breaks, or evenings. Some dogs are angels. Some will absolutely drag you down the sidewalk like it’s leg day.

It’s active, flexible, and honestly pretty good for your mental health.

Where to Find Dog Walking Jobs

Try searching on Google for:

• “dog walking jobs near me”
• “professional dog walker”
• “pet sitting and dog walking jobs”

Ways to find Job opportunities:

• Post locally in community groups
• Sign up on dog walking apps
• Network with pet owners in your area

Who This Is Best For

• Dog lovers (obviously)
• People who like flexible schedules
• Anyone looking for fun jobs for women or fun jobs for teens
• Those wanting a job that doesn’t involve screens all day

Dog walking is proof that some of the most fun jobs don’t feel like work — they just feel like a really good use of your time.

6. Ski Instructor (If You Like the Cold)

If you love LOVE winter and don’t mind dressing like a human marshmallow, being a ski instructor might be your thing.

It’s one of those fun jobs that pay well that feels more like a lifestyle than a job. Instead of a desk, you’re outside. Instead of emails, you’re moving your body. And instead of paying to ski, you’re getting paid to do it.

Ski instructors teach beginners and intermediate skiers how to ski safely without panicking halfway down the hill. Most work at ski resorts during the winter season, and a lot of them come back year after year.

If you already ski and have ever thought, I could totally teach this, you’re probably not wrong.

Why It Pays Well

Skiing is a skill. Not everyone has it, and not everyone wants to teach in cold weather all day. Resorts pay well for instructors who can keep guests safe, happy, and coming back.

Plus… tips. Tips can be very real.

How Much It Can Pay

Ski instructors often earn:

• Hourly pay from the resort
• Tips from lessons (sometimes generous)
• Higher pay with certifications or experience

For some people, this turns into one of their high paying fun jobs during ski season.

What You Need to Know

• Certification is usually required (or offered through the resort)
• Most jobs are seasonal
• You’ll be on your feet all day
• Weather matters — cold days are part of the deal

This is one of those fun jobs to have if winter is your thing.

What the Work Is Really Like

Your day is a mix of teaching the basics, calming nervous beginners, and repeating the same instructions… a lot. Some people get it instantly. Others need encouragement, patience, and maybe a pep talk halfway down the hill.

You’ll be tired by the end of the day, but it’s the good kind of tired. The “hey I actually did something with my life today” kind.

Where to Find Ski Instructor Jobs

If you’re curious, type these into Google:

• “ski instructor jobs”
• “ski resort instructor positions”
• “learn to ski instructor jobs”

You can also:

• Check ski resort websites directly
• Ask about training programs at local hills
• Apply early before ski season starts

Who This Is Best For

• People who love winter sports
• Anyone who enjoys teaching and being active
• Those looking for fun retirement jobs or seasonal work
• Anyone wanting a job that feels adventurous

Being a ski instructor is one of those jobs that are fun because it doesn’t feel repetitive — and the views……well, let’s just say they beat those office walls.

7. Video Game Tester

If you’ve ever been told to “stop playing video games and do something productive,” this one hits different.

Video game testing is one of those fun jobs that pay well where playing games actually is the job… just not the chill, snack-on-the-couch kind.

Game testers play titles before they’re released to find bugs, glitches, broken levels, and anything that doesn’t work the way it should. Studios count on testers to catch problems before millions of players roast them online.

You’re not gaming for fun.
You’re gaming with a purpose.

Why It Pays Well

Launching a buggy game can destroy reviews and sales. That’s why companies pay testers to play the same sections over and over until issues show up.

It takes patience, focus, and problem-spotting skills — not just button mashing.

How Much It Can Pay

Video game testers often earn:

• Hourly pay
• Contract pay per project
• Higher rates for experienced testers

Some roles are short-term, while others turn into full-time work at studios.

What You Need to Know

• You’ll repeat the same levels a lot
• You’ll write detailed reports about what went wrong
• Deadlines can be tight near launch
• Loving games helps, but attention to detail matters more

This is one of those fun jobs to have that’s less chill than it sounds — but still way more interesting than most jobs.

What the Work Is Really Like

You might play the same scene 20 times trying to trigger a glitch. You’ll document crashes, lag, broken controls, or weird behavior. Some days are exciting. Some days are repetitive.

Still, telling people you “work in gaming” never gets old.

Where to Find Video Game Tester Jobs

If you’re curious, type these into Google:

• “video game tester jobs”
• “game QA tester”
• “game testing jobs”

You can also:

• Check video game studio career pages
• Look for QA testing companies
• Search contract and tech job boards

Who This Is Best For

• Gamers with patience
• People who notice small details
• Anyone looking for fun jobs for teens (age limits apply)
• Those interested in tech or game development

Video game testing proves that some of the most fun jobs still involve real work — but at least the work comes with a controller.

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8. Bed Warmer

Yes, this is a real job.
And yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like.

Bed warming is one of those fun jobs that pay well that makes people laugh… right up until they realize luxury hotels and bedding brands are dead serious about sleep. Like, reputation-on-the-line serious.

Bed warmers test beds, sheets, blankets, and full sleep setups to make sure everything feels warm, cozy, and inviting before guests or customers ever touch them. Some work with high-end hotels. Others test bedding products for brands.

So basically?

1. You crawl into bed.
2. You get comfortable.
3. You report back.

Tragic, I know……lol.

Why It Pays Well

Luxury brands sell comfort. If a bed feels cold, stiff, or “meh,” reviews suffer and bookings drop. That costs money.

Comfort is personal. You can’t spreadsheet it. That’s why companies pay real humans to test how a bed actually feels, not just how pretty it looks in photos.

Sleep is serious business. And yes… someone has to take one for the team.

How Much It Can Pay

Bed warmers may earn:

• Flat fees per testing session
• Hourly pay for overnight testing
• Per-stay pay for hotel testing

These roles are usually short-term or contract, making them perfect fun side jobs.

What You Need to Know

• Jobs are rare and competitive
• You may need to stay overnight
• Feedback must be detailed and honest
• Some roles include surveys or reports

This is one of those fun jobs to have that sounds easy — but companies still expect real input.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll crawl into bed and judge it like a very serious sleep critic. How fast does it warm up? Are the sheets cozy or giving motel energy? Do you wake up refreshed… or mildly betrayed by your mattress?

In the morning, you write it all down. Temperature, comfort, sleep quality, vibes. It’s quiet. It’s calm. It’s basically a pajama-based performance review.

Where to Find Bed Warmer Jobs

If you’re curious, type these into Google:

• “bed warmer job”
• “hotel sleep tester”
• “bedding product tester”

You can also:

• Check luxury hotel career pages
• Look at bedding brand websites
• Watch for testing opportunities from research firms

Who This Is Best For

• People who love sleep and comfort
• Anyone looking for fun easy jobs
• Those interested in hospitality or product testing
• Anyone who doesn’t mind unusual job titles

Bed warming is proof that some jobs that are fun exist because comfort matters — and companies are willing to pay for it.

9. Professional Traveler

If you’ve ever come home from a trip and thought, I should’ve warned people about this place, this one’s calling your name.

Being a professional traveler is one of those fun jobs that pay well that turns real-life experiences into actual income. You travel, but not just for vibes. You’re there to observe, review, and report back.

Professional travelers visit destinations to review hotels, attractions, tours, and full travel experiences. Some work with tourism boards. Others partner with brands, research firms, or media companies.

And here’s the part people miss:  Travel isn’t the reward. Travel is the work.  😊

Why It Pays Well

Travel costs money, and bad travel experiences cost companies even more. Brands pay professional travelers to spot issues, share insights, and help improve what they offer before the public sees it.

Your experience helps them sell better trips.

How Much It Can Pay

Professional travelers may earn:

• Paid trips with expenses covered
• Flat fees per destination or project
• Ongoing contracts for repeat work

Some turn this into one of their high paying fun jobs, especially when paired with writing or content creation.

What You Need to Know

• Travel schedules aren’t always glamorous
• You may need to document everything
• Reports, photos, or notes are usually required
• Flexibility is a must

This is one of those fun jobs to have that looks dreamy online but still involves deadlines.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll travel, yes — but you’ll also take notes, notice details, and sometimes work while others relax. You might be up early for tours or staying late to document experiences.

Still beats sitting in traffic though!

Where to Find Professional Traveler Jobs

If you’re curious, type these into Google:

• “professional travel tester”
• “paid travel research jobs”
• “tourism board travel jobs”

You can also:

• Check tourism board websites
• Look for travel research firms
• Watch for contract roles in travel media

Who This Is Best For

• People who love travel but can stay organized
• Anyone comfortable being flexible
• Those interested in fun jobs after retirement
• People who enjoy sharing honest opinions

Being a professional traveler is proof that some of the most fun jobs pay because experience matters — and companies want it done right.

10. Waterslide Tester

If you’ve ever stood at the top of a waterslide thinking, this looks fun but also a little unsafe, imagine being the person who goes first.

Waterslide testing is one of those fun jobs that pay well that mixes thrill, safety, and very real responsibility. Someone has to test the speed, splash level, comfort, and safety before the park lets the public loose.

Waterslide testers ride new or updated slides to catch issues early, so guests don’t have to. Theme parks and slide manufacturers rely on testers to make sure everything works the way it should.

Yes, screaming is allowed. The report comes after. Lol.

Why It Pays Well

Waterslides have to be safe. One bad design flaw can mean injuries, lawsuits, or closures. Companies pay testers to make sure rides are fun and safe before letting thousands of guests on them.

Your experience helps protect the public and the brand.

How Much It Can Pay

Waterslide testers may earn:

• Hourly pay during testing periods
• Flat fees per testing session
• Travel and accommodations (for some roles)

Most jobs are short-term or project-based, making this a great fun side job.

What You Need to Know

• Jobs are seasonal or temporary
• Physical fitness matters
• You’ll repeat the same slide many times
• You’ll give detailed feedback, not just thumbs up

This is one of those fun jobs to have that looks playful — but safety makes it serious.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll ride the same slide over and over, paying attention to speed, turns, landing, and comfort. Afterward, you’ll report how it felt and whether anything seemed off.

It’s exciting at first… then very wet… then exciting again.

Where to Find Waterslide Tester Jobs

If you’re curious, type these into Google:

• “waterslide tester job”
• “theme park ride tester”
• “amusement park testing jobs”

You can also:

• Check theme park career pages
• Look at water park manufacturers
• Watch for seasonal testing roles

Who This Is Best For

• People who love thrill rides
• Anyone comfortable with repetition
• Those looking for fun jobs for teens (age limits apply)
• Anyone wanting a job with a story attached

Waterslide testing proves that some jobs that are fun exist because safety matters — and someone has to be brave enough to go first.

11. Movie Critic

If you’ve ever walked out of a movie and immediately launched into a full review to whoever came with you, congrats. You already think like a movie critic.

Being a movie critic is one of those fun jobs that pay well that turns strong opinions into actual income. You watch movies, sometimes before they’re released, then write or record reviews for websites, publications, or platforms.

Your job is basically to answer the question everyone asks: Is this worth my time… and my money?

Talking about movies? Productive now.

Why It Pays Well

Movies cost millions to make. Reviews influence ticket sales, streaming views, and buzz. Companies and publishers pay critics because honest opinions help shape public interest.

One good review can move numbers.

How Much It Can Pay

Movie critics may earn:

• Pay per review
• Ongoing contracts with publications
• Ad or affiliate income (if self-published)

Some turn this into one of their high paying fun jobs once their audience grows.

What You Need to Know

• Writing or speaking skills matter
• Opinions need to be clear and fair
• Consistency builds credibility
• Early screenings may require deadlines

This is one of those fun creative jobs that rewards people who show up regularly.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll watch movies — sometimes great ones, sometimes not-so-great ones — and then break them down. You’ll think about story, acting, pacing, and whether you’d recommend it.

It’s fun, but it’s also work. Watching becomes more intentional.

Where to Find Movie Critic Jobs

Try searching on Google for:

• “movie critic jobs”
• “film reviewer writer”
• “entertainment writing jobs”

You can also:

• Pitch reviews to blogs or online magazines
• Start your own review blog or channel
• Write for entertainment websites

Who This Is Best For

• People who love movies and sharing opinions
• Writers or speakers who enjoy reviews
• Anyone looking for fun work from home jobs
• Those wanting to turn hobbies into income

Movie critic work proves that some of the most fun jobs come from leaning into what you already love — and doing it consistently.

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12. Travel Blogger

If you’ve ever been on a trip and thought, I really wish someone had told me this before I booked, that’s basically the soul of travel blogging.

Travel blogging is another one of those fun jobs that pay well, once it gets rolling. And no, it’s not just influencers with perfect hair and matching outfits. Regular people do this too.

Travel bloggers share tips, reviews, itineraries, and all the “learned the hard way” moments through blog posts, photos, videos, or social media. Over time, those experiences turn into income.

The trip isn’t your prize.  The content is.

Why It Pays Well

People spend a lot of money on travel, and they want help making good choices. Travel bloggers influence where people stay, what they book, and what they skip — and brands pay for that influence.

Trust = income.

How Much It Can Pay

Travel bloggers make money through:

• Ads on their blog
• Affiliate links (hotels, tours, flights)
• Sponsored trips or posts
• Digital products like guides or itineraries

It starts slow, but this can grow into one of the most fun jobs with long-term earning power.

What You Need to Know

• Income is not instant
• Consistency matters more than perfection
• You’ll work while traveling
• SEO and content skills help a lot

This is one of those fun creative jobs that rewards patience.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll research, plan, take photos, take notes, and then create content after the trip. Sometimes you’re editing photos while everyone else is relaxing.

Still… working in pajamas with a coffee in a new city? Not bad.

Where to Find Travel Blogging Opportunities

If you’re curious, type these into Google:

• “how to become a travel blogger”
• “travel blogging income”
• “travel blog monetization”

You can also:

• Start your own blog
• Apply to travel affiliate programs
• Pitch to tourism boards or brands

Who This Is Best For

• People who love sharing experiences
• Writers, photographers, or storytellers
• Anyone interested in fun jobs after retirement
• Those willing to play the long game

Travel blogging proves that some fun jobs that pay well don’t start big — but they can grow into something amazing.

13. Golf Ball Diver

If you’ve ever looked at a golf course pond and thought, “There are definitely a lot of balls in there,” you’re absolutely right — and that’s where the money is. Golf ball diving is one of those fun jobs that pay well that most people don’t even know is a thing.

Golf ball divers retrieve lost golf balls from water hazards on golf courses. The balls are cleaned, sorted, and resold in bulk to golfers, courses, or resale companies.

Yes, it’s muddy. But hey, it pays….and pretty darn well actually!

Why It Pays Well

Golf balls are expensive, and golfers lose a lot of them. Recovered balls can be resold for a solid profit, which is why divers get paid for the work.

It’s a niche job with real demand and very little competition.

How Much It Can Pay

Golf ball divers may earn:

• Pay per ball collected
• Profit per batch sold
• Contract pay with golf courses

Some divers make this a high paying fun job, especially during peak golf season.

What You Need to Know

• You’ll be working underwater
• Comfort with swimming and diving is required
• Safety matters (visibility, wildlife, water conditions)
• Some divers work independently, others under contract

This is one of those fun jobs to have that’s not glamorous — but it’s effective.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll dive into ponds, feel around for balls, collect them in bags, then clean and sort them later. It’s physical work and can be messy, but it’s also quiet, focused, and oddly satisfying.

Every dive feels like a treasure hunt. Just maybe don’t mention it to your 5-year-old ….or you’ll never hear the end of it!

Where to Find Golf Ball Diver Jobs

Try searching on Google for:

• “golf ball diver job”
• “golf ball recovery”
• “golf course ball retrieval”

You can also:

• Contact local golf courses directly
• Work with golf ball resale companies
• Start independently and sell recovered balls

Who This Is Best For

• Strong swimmers
• People who enjoy physical, hands-on work
• Anyone looking for fun easy jobs with low competition
• Those who don’t mind getting dirty to get paid

Golf ball diving proves that some of the most fun jobs don’t look fancy — they just quietly make money.

14. Professional Shopper

If you’re the person everyone asks to “just grab a few things” because you’re fast, organized, and somehow always find the best option, professional shopping might be your thing. This is one of those fun jobs that pay well where everyday skills turn into income.

Professional shoppers shop on behalf of clients, brands, or research companies. Some shop for busy people. Others test stores, buy specific items, or check pricing and availability.

Ahhhhh, shopping……but with purpose!

Why It Pays Well

Time is valuable. People and companies pay professional shoppers to save them time, reduce stress, and get things done right the first time.

Efficiency + trust = money.

How Much It Can Pay

Professional shoppers often earn:

• Pay per shopping trip
• Hourly rates
• Bonuses for speed or accuracy
• Tips from happy clients

Many people turn this into one of their high paying fun jobs by stacking clients or working peak hours.

What You Need to Know

• Organization matters more than style
• Accuracy is huge (wrong item = redo)
• Some roles involve mystery shopping or research
• Reliability builds repeat work fast

This is one of those fun easy jobs that rewards people who are naturally efficient.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll shop with a list, stay on budget, communicate with clients, and deliver or report back. Sometimes it’s groceries. Sometimes it’s clothing. Sometimes it’s checking shelves and prices.

It’s active, flexible, and honestly kind of satisfying if you like checking things off lists.

Where to Find Professional Shopper Jobs

If you’re curious, type these into Google:

• “professional shopper jobs”
• “personal shopper jobs”
• “mystery shopping jobs”

You can also:

• Sign up with shopping or delivery apps
• Apply through market research companies
• Offer services locally or online

Who This Is Best For

• Organized, detail-oriented people
• Anyone who enjoys errands and efficiency
• Those looking for fun jobs for women or fun retirement jobs
• People wanting flexible, on-demand work

Professional shopping proves that some jobs that are fun pay well simply because you’re good at what others don’t want to do.

15. Ben & Jerry’s Flavor Critic

If you’ve ever stood in the ice cream aisle debating flavors like it’s a life decision, this one is for you. Being a Ben & Jerry’s flavor critic is one of those fun jobs that pay well that sounds fake — until you remember how serious ice cream brands are about taste.

Flavor critics test new ice cream ideas, textures, mix-ins, and combinations before they ever hit stores. The goal is to figure out what works, what doesn’t, and what people will actually buy again.

Yes, it’s ice cream. No, it’s not just vibes.

Why It Pays Well

Launching a new flavor isn’t cheap. If people hate it, the brand eats the loss. That’s why companies pay flavor critics — honest feedback prevents flops and helps create future bestsellers.

Your taste buds literally decide what stays… and what gets quietly erased from existence.
Not gonna lie, you kind of feel famous.

Don’t wanna brag, but *I* actually did this as a temporary PT job, for what feels like many (many) moons ago, at Baskin-Robbins (do they even exist anymore?! I honestly don’t know.) 

Now, I honestly don’t remember what it paid — but here’s a fun fact I do remember: it didn’t feel like work.

I can already see you rolling your eyes like, “No sh!t, Maya.”  Haha. Fair.  Still… fun times.

I also gained about 15 pounds that summer.  

Zero regrets. 😛

And yes — we got tons of free ice cream to take home too, because apparently “professional taste tester” isn’t a perk in itself.  No benefits……just lots and lots of ice cream

How Much It Can Pay

Flavor critics may earn:

• Hourly pay for tasting sessions
• Flat fees per testing round
• Paid product testing opportunities

Most roles are contract-based, making this a great side hustle rather than a full-time job.

What You Need to Know

• Jobs are limited and competitive
• You’ll taste small samples, not full servings
• Detailed feedback is required
• Sensory or food testing experience helps, but isn’t always required

This is one of those fun jobs to have that sounds easy — but companies expect thoughtful input.

What the Work Is Really Like

You’ll sample different flavors, rate sweetness, texture, and balance, then fill out reports or surveys. Some flavors are amazing. Some are… interesting.

Your job is to be honest, even if it’s awkward.

Where to Find Flavor Critic Jobs

Try searching on Google for:

• “Ben & Jerry’s flavor tester”
• “ice cream flavor testing jobs”
• “food sensory panel jobs”

You can also:

• Check Ben & Jerry’s career page
• Look at food research and testing companies
• Join sensory panel programs

Who This Is Best For

• Ice cream lovers with self-control
• Detail-oriented people
• Anyone interested in food testing
• Those looking for fun creative jobs or unique side hustles

Being a flavor critic proves that some fun jobs that pay well exist because taste matters — and someone has got to be brave enough to say, “yeah… this one’s not it.”

The Bottom Line

Let’s be real for a second.

Just because these are fun jobs that pay well it doesn’t mean they’re fake!

They’re just not the kind of jobs people casually bring up over dinner. Most people stick with what’s familiar even when it’s boring, draining, and slowly sucking their soul. Why? Because “normal” feels safe.

But here’s the thing. If you’re open to work that’s a little different — flexible, niche, based on real life instead of a résumé checklist — you don’t have to hate your job just to pay your bills.

A lot of the most enjoyable jobs exist simply because most people won’t touch them. The second they hear “unconventional,” they panic and back away like it’s contagious or something. *insert eye roll here*

But guess what? Once you stop searching for “normal” and start looking for opportunity, work stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling like something YOU chose.

That’s where everything changes.

In the meantime, if you’re chasing all these fun jobs that pay well and need a reminder that you’re not crazy (or even greedy for wanting more) you need to read a post I wrote back when I first started this site – but is just as important and relevant today than ever before. It’s on motivation for female entrepreneurs.

Basically, it’s a no-BS pep talk for women who are building something different while everyone else plays it safe. Less “manifest harder!”, more “yes you can do this, and yes you deserve it”.

Read it when doubt creeps in, motivation dips, or you need someone to say: keep going, you’re onto something.

👉 Go read it. You’ll feel better immediately.

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FAQ: Fun Jobs That Pay Well