I am retired and living in downtown Seattle. I've been mystery shopping, to varying degrees, for a few years. Previously, I helped my wife with many of her shops -- mostly the dining, casino, and hotel ones. She does very little shopping now. I'm financially comfortable, so can be picky about what I pick up. Mostly, I apply for assignments that pay fairly well and that are within walking distance of our apartment, as the traffic in downtown Seattle is horrible.