careers with flexible hours for moms

Flexible Part-Time Jobs for Moms in California: 6 Career Paths to Consider

Are you a stay-at-home mom ready to re-enter the workforce without giving up the flexibility your family needs? You’re not alone. More moms are looking for flexible part-time jobs that allow them to earn income while managing school pickups, their kids’ extracurricular activities, and daily life. 

Rather than settling for side gigs for moms that offer limited growth, consider these careers with flexible hours for moms, including one standout option that offers long-term earning potential: real estate. 

Key Takeaways 

  • Real Estate Agent: This career offers flexible hours, strong earning potential, and the opportunity to build your own business while working part time. 
  • Freelance Writer or Editor: Freelance writing allows moms to earn income from home by creating content for blogs, websites, and businesses on their own schedule. 
  • Virtual Assistant: Virtual assistants provide remote administrative or creative support to clients, allowing them to choose projects and hours that fit their availability. 
  • Online Tutor or Teacher: Online tutoring enables moms to teach academic subjects or skills through virtual platforms, often without needing a formal teaching credential. 
  • E-Commerce Seller: E-commerce sellers run online shops through platforms like Etsy or Amazon, making it possible to manage a business from home with flexible hours. 
  • Fitness Instructor or Coach: Fitness instructors lead group or individual workouts in person or online, allowing for a customizable schedule that fits around family life. 

6 Careers with Flexible Hours for Moms in California 

Re-entering the workforce can be overwhelming, especially if your previous career no longer suits your lifestyle. The good news is that there are flexible part-time jobs for moms that allow you to balance work and family life. These six careers are ideal for moms looking to earn income while maintaining a flexible schedule. 

Note: Salary estimates are based on California data from Indeed, as of June 2025. 

1. Real Estate Agent 

Average Salary in California: $111,790 

Why a Real Estate Career Works for Moms: Real estate is one of the most flexible and rewarding part-time jobs for moms. You can show homes, meet clients, and manage transactions around your own availability.  

How to Get Started: To become a real estate agent in California, you need to complete a 135-hour pre-licensing course and pass the state exam. Allied Schools offers online, livestream, and at-your-own-pace options to help you obtain your license. No degree is required. Many moms start in real estate part time, then grow their businesses when their schedules allow for more time at work. This is a great career for single moms.  

2. Freelance Writer or Editor 

Average Salary in California: Approximately $30.41/hour 

Job Description: Freelance writers create content such as blogs, articles, newsletters, or marketing materials. Some specialize in ghostwriting or technical writing, while others build niches in industries like health, tech, or real estate. 

How to Get Started: Set up profiles on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. You can also pitch to marketing agencies or businesses that need written content. A portfolio of writing samples will help you attract clients. 

3. Virtual Assistant 

Average Salary in California: Approximately $32.07/hour 

Job Description: Virtual assistants provide remote support to businesses and entrepreneurs. Tasks can include scheduling, email management, bookkeeping, or social media coordination. 

How to Get Started: Identify the services you want to offer based on your strengths. Create an online portfolio, set your rates, and market yourself on freelance platforms. Many virtual assistants start with one client and build from there. 

4. Online Tutor or Teacher 

Average Salary in California: $30.85/hour 

Job Description: Online tutors work one-on-one or with small groups to help students with academic subjects, test prep, or skill development. Teaching schedules are flexible, and sessions are typically held through video calls. 

How to Get Started: Choose your subject area and register on platforms such as Tutor.com, Wyzant, or VIPKid. Some roles require a degree or certification, while others do not. Promote your services through social media or parent networks. 

5. E-Commerce Seller 

Average Salary: Varies depending on products and sales volume 

Job Description: E-commerce sellers run online stores and sell products through platforms like Etsy, eBay, or Shopify. This can involve sourcing or making items, managing inventory, and promoting your brand. 

How to Get Started: Select a niche or product based on your interests and market demand. Set up your store on your preferred platform and begin listing items. Many moms start with handmade crafts or resale items and grow from there. 

6. Fitness Instructor or Coach 

Average Salary in California: Approximately $33.90/hour 

Job Description: Fitness instructors help others improve their health through group classes, personal training, or virtual coaching. Many individuals focus on areas such as yoga, Pilates, strength training, or wellness coaching. 

How to Get Started: Earn a certification in your chosen area from a recognized organization. Start teaching at local gyms or community centers or offer classes online. Use social media and word of mouth to promote your services. 

Why Real Estate Stands Out as a Flexible Career 

All the jobs listed above offer flexibility, but real estate has several advantages for moms looking for a long-term career with earning potential. 

When you work in real estate, you’re building your own business. That means when you’re ready to work full-time, you already have a foundation to build upon. 

Real estate agents typically earn a commission on each sale, often around 6 percent, which is split among the buyer’s and seller’s agents, as well as their respective brokerages. 

Best of all, you can learn everything you need to know in a 135-hour course. No degree is required. 

Take the First Step Toward a Flexible Career 

If you’re looking for a flexible career that works with your life, offers growth potential, and allows you to be there for your family, real estate could be the right choice. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent or a single mom seeking more control over your schedule, real estate provides both freedom and financial opportunity. 

Get started today with Allied Schools and take the first step toward your real estate license. Enroll in our real estate program and start building a future that fits your life.