10 Low-Stress Jobs for Lazy People That Pay Well

Not everyone dreams of climbing corporate ladders or pulling 12-hour shifts.

In fact, according to a recent Gallup poll, about 85% of employees globally are disengaged or actively dissatisfied with their jobs.

If you're someone who prefers a slower pace or simply doesn't want to be glued to your desk all day, you’re far from alone - and lucky for you, plenty of jobs cater specifically to your laid-back lifestyle.

Here’s a curated list of 7 perfect jobs for lazy people - careers designed around flexibility, minimal stress, and maximum comfort.

1. Can I get paid to watch Netflix all day?

Yes, absolutely. Companies like Netflix and Hulu hire individuals as "taggers" or editorial analysts. Your primary responsibility is to watch content continuously and accurately tag it with metadata (genre, mood, cast) to help the algorithm provide personalized recommendations to viewers.

Your days are spent comfortably lounging with your favorite streaming service. While it requires attention to detail to categorize content correctly, it removes the physical and mental strain of traditional office work.

Pro Tip: Start a review blog or YouTube channel showcasing your insights. According to a report by Influencer Marketing Hub, the creator economy has grown rapidly, meaning your "lazy" hobby could monetize through multiple streams.

Also Read: How to make a resume for your first job?

2. Is it possible to eat and shop for a living?

It certainly is. As a Mystery Shopper, you are employed to evaluate the quality of service in retail stores, restaurants, or luxury spas. You go undercover as a regular customer, indulge in services or food, and provide detailed feedback on your experience afterward.

You get reimbursed for the products or meals you purchase, plus a fee for your time. It is low-pressure and allows you to choose assignments that fit your schedule.

The Mystery Shopping Professionals Association (MSPA) indicates that the industry is growing as brands fight for customer loyalty.

Pro Tip: Sign up with multiple agencies to maximize your earnings and variety of assignments.

Also Read: How to create a job specific resume?

3. Do people actually get paid to taste dog food?

Surprisingly, yes. A Pet Food Taster tests pet food for quality, flavor consistency, and nutritional value. While it sounds intense, you generally only need to taste the food to check for texture and flavor balance - you rarely have to swallow it.

It requires a refined palate but very little physical exertion. It is an unconventional yet lucrative way to use your sensory skills without the stress of a high-stakes corporate environment.

Having a background in food science or nutrition can increase your credibility and pay.

4. Can I turn my gaming hobby into a career?

You can. Video Game Testers get paid to casually play video games, identifying bugs, glitches, or narrative inconsistencies before public release. Most positions allow you considerable freedom to play through levels, noting issues as they appear.

While professional e-sports require intense training, game testing is more about patience and observation.

You are essentially turning your leisure time into a paid activity.

Pro Tip: Live-stream your gaming sessions. With platforms like Twitch exploding in popularity, you can gain followers and earn passive income. As noted by Business of Apps, Twitch has over 140 million monthly active users, offering a massive audience for relaxed gamers.

Also Read: How to find a job you love?

5. Is getting paid to be a friend a real job?

Yes, "Virtual Friendship" is a growing field. People earn money simply by providing online companionship. You engage clients in casual conversations, listen to their problems, or play online games with them.

Your primary qualification is being sociable and easygoing.

A study by Cigna found that nearly half of Americans report sometimes or always feeling alone. Virtual friends fill this gap.

It is low-pressure, flexible, and allows you to set your own boundaries and schedule. However, you must clearly outline boundaries and availability upfront to maintain a stress-free experience.

Also Read: What are some easy remote jobs you can get?

6. Can I earn money just by standing in line?

Yes, patience pays. A Professional Line Stander (or queue placeholder) is paid to stand in line for highly sought-after events, product launches (like new iPhones), or limited releases. While waiting, you are free to read, relax, or scroll through your phone.

This is perhaps the definition of "getting paid to do nothing." In major cities like New York or London, time-poor executives are willing to pay a premium for someone else to wait for them.

Pro Tip: Partner with line-standing apps like TaskRabbit or build your own client base through social media to boost earnings.

7. Is sleeping on the job ever encouraged?

In this job, it is mandatory. As a Sleep Study Participant, universities and hospitals pay you to sleep so they can analyze your brain waves and breathing patterns. It is used to study conditions like sleep apnea or the effects of new mattresses.

This is arguably the laziest job on the list. You are literally earning money while unconscious.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 1 in 3 adults don't get enough sleep, fueling a high demand for sleep research.

Look for studies at local university research hospitals, which often pay higher rates for medical trials compared to consumer product testing.

Also Read: How to become a virtual assistant?

8. Can I get paid to sleep in luxury hotels?

Yes, as a Professional Bed/Mattress Tester. Luxury hotels and mattress companies hire individuals to test their beds for comfort, support, and sleep quality. You provide feedback on the "snooze factor" to help them improve their products.

Similar to sleep studies but often more luxurious, this role might require you to blog about your sleep experience or rate the linen quality.

It is the ultimate comfort career.

Develop a "sleep influencer" persona on social media. Hotels are increasingly looking for content creators to showcase their amenities.

9. How can I get paid to live in someone else's house?

By becoming a Professional House Sitter. Homeowners who travel frequently hire sitters to occupy their homes, water plants, and collect mail to make the house look lived-in and secure.

This job offers a change of scenery and a quiet environment - perfect for reading, studying, or working on a side hustle.

It usually requires zero heavy lifting and offers free accommodation, which significantly cuts your living expenses.

According to Nomad List, the digital nomad lifestyle is surging, creating a massive secondary market for house sitters who travel the world staying in homes for free or for pay.

Use reputable platforms like TrustedHousesitters to build a profile with verified reviews.

10. Can I earn money just by sharing my opinion?

Yes, by joining Paid Focus Groups. Marketing agencies and big brands constantly need consumer feedback on new products, political concepts, or ad campaigns. You sit in a room (or a Zoom call) and discuss your honest opinions for an hour or two.

This requires no physical labor and no specific degree. You simply need to be yourself. It is an intellectual "lazy" job where your voice is the only tool you need.

Focus on specialized panels (like tech or healthcare) which tend to pay significantly more than general consumer goods panels.

Final Thoughts: Lazy Doesn’t Mean Unproductive

Remember, being "lazy" isn't necessarily negative - it’s often about working smarter, not harder. These jobs are perfect for people who value their free time, mental health, and peace of mind over high-stress environments.

Finding the perfect low-effort job starts with presenting yourself effectively. Hiration's AI-powered Resume Builder, Mock Interview Simulator, and LinkedIn Optimizer will make your job search effortless, enhancing your chances of landing unique, easygoing jobs faster.

With minimal effort, these tools can help you clearly present your strengths to laid-back employers.

Relax, let Hiration help you showcase your best professional self, and land your dream job today!