Door County, known for its serene retirement destinations, is seeing a trend of older adults and retirees returning to work. Despite the area’s booming tourism industry, many are forced to pick up jobs to afford the rising cost of living, stay social, and become involved in the community.
Financial Necessity
James Carson, 72, retired to Washington Island a decade ago, but unexpected medical expenses and the rising cost of living forced him to pick up two service industry jobs. He now works seven days a week, logging 45 to 50 hours. Carson wishes he had saved more aggressively and thinks people have false ideas about what retirement looks like.
Similarly, Cindy Good, 71, retired from a career in software and business consulting but continues to work as a retailer. She feels the need to keep busy and recognizes the rising cost of living that influences other working retirees in the area.
Social Connection
Charlene Keith, 68, never envisioned herself retiring and has gone back to work part-time at the Door County Maritime Museum. She enjoys the social interaction and has formed good relationships with the island’s youth.
Local employment services nonprofit We Are Hope runs a program to match older adults with employers, and Executive Director Kim Carley says the organization served more people in the first half of 2026 than expected for the whole year.
Original reporting: Wisconsin Watch — read the source article.
