In the West, a growing number of people are embracing a more flexible and balanced lifestyle. With the rise of remote work, this trend has become more widespread than ever. No longer tied to the traditional 9-to-5 office routine, many professionals are seeking out lesser-known jobs that can be done from home with minimal stress. These roles not only offer a steady income but also provide the freedom to care for family, pursue hobbies, or simply enjoy a more relaxed pace of life.
So-called “underrated remote jobs” are those niche, lesser-known roles that don’t necessarily require formal education or years of experience. What they do demand are soft skills, patience, and adaptability. For example, customer service roles are increasingly being filled remotely. Many companies now prefer to hire part-time or flexible support representatives who can handle inquiries, resolve issues, and communicate with customers via phone, email, or live chat—all from the comfort of their home.
Another classic example is data entry. Though the work may be repetitive, it’s perfect for people who prefer stability, low interaction, and clearly defined tasks. Industries like healthcare, legal services, and retail constantly need help organizing and digitizing records. As a result, data entry specialists—who are accurate, detail-oriented, and fast typists—continue to be in demand.
On the more creative side of things, entry-level graphic design roles are gaining popularity. Thanks to accessible tools like Canva and Figma, even those without a formal design background can create visual content for businesses. Freelancers often design logos, social media posts, or digital banners, making this an attractive choice for people who want to work independently and at their own pace.
Interestingly, traditional roles such as tutoring, translation, and admin support have also found a second life in the remote work space. Online tutoring, for instance, is booming. Native English speakers, or those with strong academic backgrounds, can offer tutoring services to students of all ages. Many platforms provide the training and tools necessary for beginners, making this a great part-time opportunity that adapts to your schedule and strengths.
Translation is another in-demand niche. With the West’s multilingual populations and global market reach, businesses need translators for everything from documents and marketing materials to subtitles and real-time conversations. The work is often freelance and can be done entirely from home. Those who are fluent in two or more languages, and who understand cultural nuances, will find no shortage of opportunities.
Even the travel and hospitality industry—traditionally dependent on in-person roles—has begun hiring remote workers for backend tasks like booking coordination, itinerary planning, and customer service. Airlines, hotels, and travel companies need support at all hours, and virtual travel agents have become an essential part of the team. A part-time travel assistant in France, for example, helps clients plan and adjust their trips entirely via email and phone, working flexible hours while enjoying life at home.
Social media work has also diversified into a wide range of remote roles. From scheduling posts and managing comments to basic analytics and engagement tracking, social media has become fertile ground for freelance and part-time remote work. A freelancer in Germany might manage a small North American ecommerce brand’s Instagram account—creating visual content, replying to DMs, and monitoring analytics—all on her own schedule, with no commuting required.
Proofreading, while seemingly niche, has a wide range of applications. Publishers, academic institutions, marketing agencies, and online platforms all need clean, error-free content. Remote proofreaders help improve clarity, grammar, and structure, and many people in these roles are self-taught. In English-speaking countries, the demand for sharp-eyed proofreaders is high, and the flexibility of the work is a major draw.
Tech support is another field where remote work has flourished. Many entry-level IT roles focus on customer-facing tasks like answering basic questions, solving common issues, or guiding users through simple troubleshooting steps. A former office assistant in the U.S. named Tom transitioned into a tech support role with no formal IT background. After learning the basics on the job, he’s now pursuing certifications and considering a long-term career in tech.
For organized, detail-oriented individuals, becoming a virtual assistant is a smart choice. Entrepreneurs and small business owners increasingly rely on remote VAs to help with scheduling, inbox management, customer communication, and light project coordination. A stay-at-home mother in the UK works part-time as a virtual assistant, earning a steady income while balancing her family life.
Writing, of course, remains one of the most flexible and popular remote jobs available. Freelance writers produce blog posts, product descriptions, website content, and more. Many projects are paid by the word or per piece, and with the rise of AI tools, more companies are seeking writers who know how to blend creativity with efficiency. If you enjoy writing and have a knack for storytelling, this could be an ideal path.
The key to entering these niche fields is to start with your own interests and transferable skills. Many people build credibility by developing personal projects or portfolios. If you want to write, start a blog and publish a few thoughtful pieces. If design is your passion, create sample projects using free tools and post them online. Even if you’re targeting customer service roles, creating mock email responses or support guides can help you showcase your skills.
Tailoring your resume and cover letter is essential when applying for remote jobs. Use keywords from the job posting, highlight relevant skills, and show that you understand the responsibilities. Even if you lack formal experience, emphasizing your time management, self-motivation, and adaptability will strengthen your application.
Online communities and networking can also play a big role in landing a role. Many remote job opportunities are never listed on major platforms. Instead, they’re shared in Slack channels, Facebook groups, Reddit forums, or on LinkedIn. Joining these spaces not only gives you early access to job leads, but also helps you connect with like-minded professionals.
There’s no need to leap into a full-time role right away. Starting with freelance projects or part-time remote work allows you to get a feel for the pace and expectations of the field. Over time, you can build experience, increase your income, and transition into a more permanent role if you choose.
What may seem like “hidden” or “niche” careers at first glance are actually becoming go-to options for many in the West who value independence, meaningful work, and personal freedom. With the continued growth of digital tools and global connectivity, the world of remote work has never been more open.
Whether you’re looking for a side hustle, a full-time gig, or simply a less stressful way to earn a living, these underrated jobs could be your stepping stone to a more fulfilling life. All it takes is a laptop, a good internet connection, and the willingness to take the first step.