60 Best Business Ideas to Make Money

Maybe you’ve fantasized about the many advantages and perks of owning your own business, but you just don’t know how—or what business—to start. If this sounds like you, you’re in luck. We’ve come up with this list of business ideas that anyone could realistically pursue with some training, experience, and startup capital.

Many of these ideas can even be carried out remotely from the comfort of your own home or online, saving overhead costs. From low-barrier, high-return businesses to businesses that can be launched with less than $7,000, you’re sure to find one that can fit your lifestyle.

Here are 60 business ideas to consider when embarking on your own entrepreneurial journey:

Creative Businesses

Graphic Design

• Startup costs: $2,000 to $10,000
• Earning potential: Up to $98,000 (Glassdoor)
• Future outlook: Graphic designer employment is projected to grow by 2% from 2023 to 2033 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Graphic design can be an attractive field for someone who is creative and passionate about visual art. Much of the initial investment associated with this career comes from the hardware and software necessary to make the technological magic happen. Startup assets, such as a powerful computer, laser printer, and a subscription to Adobe Creative Suite, are just a few of the purchases that you may need to make to build a portfolio and start attracting clients. Other helpful assets for succeeding in this business include creative talent, people skills, and an inclination for visual art.

Designing Retail Items

• Startup costs: $10,000 to $50,000
• Earning potential: Up to $209,000 (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The projected job growth rate for designers is 3% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

Designing retail items may sound like a broad job description, but that’s the beauty of it! With the right IT equipment, you can create unique designs for virtually any retail product. That equipment usually includes CAD software and may involve specialty hardware, which explains why the startup costs are a bit high. People who pursue this field of design work usually learn the ins and outs of the profession through previous employment—but starting their own business can be extremely fruitful and can even evolve into a highly profitable enterprise.

Jewelry Design

• Startup costs: $650 to $20,000
• Earning potential: Up to $104,000 (Talent.com)
• Future outlook: Demand for jewelry designers is projected to grow by 3% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

You don’t have to possess expensive or precious stones to design jewelry with them—it is possible to begin a jewelry design business with minimal startup costs. By using inexpensive materials and creating your own pieces, you can sell locally at craft fairs, local markets, or online.

If you are interested in pioneering a more high-end and in-depth jewelry design business, you can still succeed with the right training. Consider looking into a Jewelry Design Certificate from the Gemological Institute of America as an investment in your business.

Sign Painting

• Startup costs: $2,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $216,000+ (Comparably)
• Future outlook: The future job outlook for sign painters is expected to grow by 1% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

If you’ve always been complimented for your neat handwriting or creative skills, sign painting might be the gig for you. Many shops and customers alike appreciate hand-painted signs as opposed to printed ones, so put your talents to work! Sign painting can mean adding hand-lettering, drawing, and even murals, which can be extremely lucrative. Just be sure to give preliminary estimates that fairly compensate your time, talent, and materials and that you’ve got a legal contract in hand before beginning the process.

Furniture Refinishing & Repair

• Startup costs: $6,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $73,500+ (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The furniture repair service market size is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2023 to 2031 (Verified Market Research).

Upcycling is all the rage, and one profitable form of this is restoring original furniture to its former glory. It allows you to use your historian know-how and artisan skills and apply them to classic pieces that many will pay handsomely for. With cleaning, stripping, repairing, painting, refinishing, and adding new hardware, it’s no surprise that furniture refinishing and repair can be pricey. But once you get your business rolling, you’ll enjoy the craftsmanship that goes into this career and the returns that come from it.

Sewing/Tailoring Services

• Startup costs: $1,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $51,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global tailoring services market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of about 12.5% from 2023 to 2032 (Business Research Insights).

Sewing and tailoring services are always in demand; weddings, prom season, and other recurring events call for well-fitted attire. With this business, you can enjoy the role’s creativity and expand as you see fit. Startup costs don’t have to be high—you can begin by offering tailoring out of your home and then move up by launching a sewing shop location. Sewing and tailoring are also desirable skills, so offering training classes can provide an additional source of income.

Custom Cabinetry & Furniture

• Startup costs: $19,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $68,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global customized furniture market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 12.05% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2032 (Straits Research).

Demand for construction industry suppliers is increasing, including related services like cabinetry building and manufacturing. If you’re a craftsperson, you can make an attractive income in this field, whether you sell your services directly to the customer, furniture stores, or contractors and designers.

Startup costs can vary depending on whether you’ll need a storefront. Still, there are ways to moderate the high costs by purchasing used equipment, tools, and vehicles. Remember to start your business the right way by looking into a Certificate of Occupancy for your locality, Labor Safety Requirements for your employees, and business liability insurance.

Mobile Hair Salon

• Startup costs: $1,300+
• Earning potential: Up to $68,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global salon services market size is projected to grow 7.55% from 2023 to 2030 (Fortune Business Insights).

With more and more companies offering their services from the comfort of the consumer’s home, it makes sense that businesses like automotive detailing and hair salon services would do the same. Mobile hair salons provide this convenience to their customers, bringing their beautifying services to their door.

While this eliminates overhead costs for studio space, you will need to have suitable transportation. Depending on the age and quality of your chosen vehicle and the necessary buildout expenses, startup costs can run at least $1,300, but the payout can be worth it. Additionally, you’ll need professional training to gain a qualifying license to offer cosmetology services. Click the link below to read more about cutting-edge methods to market your hair salon business, whether stationary or mobile.

Personalized Children’s Books

• Startup costs: $6,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $88,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The children’s books market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2031 (Verified Market Research).

Striking out on one’s own to write and illustrate personalized children’s books requires a very specific set of skills: creativity, artistic ability, excellent creative writing skills, and an understanding of and appreciation for children. If this sounds like you, this may be your niche. The best news is that once you have a few beautifully illustrated templates that customers respond to, you can use these templates over and over again, customizing them by simply changing the names.

Costume Design/Rental

• Startup costs: $6,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $98,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: Employment in costume design is expected to grow by 5% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS). The costume rental market is expected to grow at a CAGR between 4% and 6% from 2024 to 2031 (OpenPR).

Though similar to fashion design, costume design allows for more fun and creativity and can also be a lucrative business undertaking. If, in addition to designing costumes, a business owner can start, grow, and sustain a sizable rental business, then this business model will continue to regenerate itself. If you have a knack for creativity and can sew or source costume gear, this could be a successful venture over time.

Catering & Hospitality Businesses

B&B or Boutique Hotel

• Startup costs: $13,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $114,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The bed and breakfast accommodation market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2024 to 2028 (The Business Research Company). The US boutique hotel market revenue is expected to grow at 5.2% CAGR from 2023 to 2033 (Future Market Insights).

B&Bs or boutique hotels offer unique and memorable experiences for guests, and according to business trends, these charming accommodation options are here to stay. Business owners benefit most by launching in areas that are desirable, allowing them to provide accommodations, dining, and entertainment for guests with a local touch.

Although the startup investment of $13,000 may seem low for such an undertaking, it assumes that the entrepreneur already owns the property for the business location. If this sounds like you, you’ll want to start by researching each of the requirements involved in this business opportunity before you start opening your doors to weary travelers.

Plenty of helpful assets are available to people who want to pursue this business, such as those offered by trade and industry associations like the Association of Lodging Professionals (ALP) and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA), or an online certificate course offered through IAP Career College.

Cleaning Company

• Startup costs: Varies depending on the type of company; minimum of $750+
• Earning potential: Up to $100,000 (Jobber)
• Future outlook: The global cleaning services market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.83 percent from 2023 to 2030 (Fortune Business Insights).

A cleaning company is a broad umbrella term that can cover many different specialties. However, as a small business owner, focusing on multiple service niches will allow you to enjoy the market’s steady demand. Some of these niches can include waste removal services, janitorial services, post-construction cleaning, or disaster cleanup. Cleanliness is always valued, so cleaning companies are typically safe ventures with the potential to grow and expand in both commercial and residential settings.

Maid Service

• Startup costs: $2,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $339,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: Demand for the global contractual cleaning services market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2023 to 2033 (Future Market Insights).

Unlike a cleaning company, maid services are usually residential and are easy businesses to start with few members. But as the demand for these companies continues to grow, you’ll have the opportunity to scale your business by increasing your offerings, growing your team, or expanding your service area.

Maid services typically require a low startup investment, but you’ll want to ensure that you have the right insurance, workers’ compensation, and other business assets specific to your location. Then, before you know it, your business will be cleaning the floor with the competition.

Catering

• Startup costs: $19,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $74,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The catering management market is projected to record a CAGR of 4.3% from 2022 to 2032 (Future Market Insights).

Catering companies combine both hospitality and creativity by providing customized dining experiences for events. You’ll need a commercial kitchen, which is why startup costs are high. Even if you start out in your own kitchen, you’ll need to move up to a larger space with quality equipment to make it in this profession. Fortunately, you can start out with inexpensive options like leasing equipment. Other important assets, like a team of staff, fresh ingredients, and food transportation, can be pricey but will be necessary in time to take your business to the next level.

Personal Chef

• Startup costs: $650+
• Earning potential: Up to $198,000+ (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The global personal chef services market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2024 to 2030 (Grand View Research).

Take your culinary skills to the next level and earn money from cooking. Personal chefs don’t have to endure the hectic restaurant industry; instead, they get to work for diverse clients, providing them with prepared meals that are attuned to their unique preferences. Today, personal chefs often create meals to freeze or refrigerate for clients. This business can be enjoyable and fruitful, so long as you maintain good record keeping and keep note of clients’ dietary restrictions, food allergies, and any preferences.

Writing Businesses

Technical Writing

• Startup costs: $500+
• Earning potential: Up to $129,440+ (BLS)
• Future outlook: The technical writing occupational outlook is expected to increase at a 4% CAGR from 2023 to 2033 (BLS).

A technical writing service can involve writing for product manuals, proposals, software documentation, and technical guides. These services typically require a good amount of research and time, plus quality writing software systems and equipment. More than any certification or degree, you’ll need a specialized skill set for taking complicated, technical information and translating it into commonplace, digestible language. Previous work experience will help you to launch a successful technical writing business.

Grant/Proposal Writing

• Startup costs: $2,600+
• Earning potential: Up to $94,600+ (Salary.com)
• Future outlook: The projected job growth rate for grant writers is projected to be 6% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

Grant and proposal writing businesses perform services similar to fundraising consulting, as they each help other organizations raise money and acquire funding. Your work as a writer will focus heavily on comprehensive grant proposals complete with graphics, charts, tables, and more. Therefore, startup costs here can include a suitable workspace (from home or elsewhere) as well as all of the hardware, software, and printing equipment necessary for the services you offer.

General Writing Services

• Startup costs: $500+
• Earning potential: $127,000+ (Indeed)
• Future outlook: Employment of writers and authors is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS).

This type of writing business includes all writing services except for the technical writing and grant writing mentioned above. It primarily consists of marketing, creative writing, copywriting, journalism, ghostwriting, and writing for hire.

As with most new businesses, experience, strong referrals, and a degree in a related field (like English) can help get this business off the ground. Most writers start by applying to online freelance writing positions to gain clients and develop an online writing portfolio. Although you may have to take lower rates to acquire portfolio examples initially, this will help you to attract better-paying clients over time. Many writers run freelancing businesses and market their services through sites such as Upwork or Fiverr.

Retail & Sales Businesses

Retail Establishment

• Startup costs: $78,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $339,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The US retail market is projected to grow at an annual rate of 3.1% from 2024 to 2028 (EMARKETER).

If you have the money, the skills, and the desire to jump into retail, your options are practically limitless. As a retail establishment business owner, you could open a store selling art supplies, clothing, books, bridalwear, novelty coffee mugs—you name it. The best-selling product categories in the retail sector are motor vehicle parts, general stores, building materials and garden supplies, food and beverage stores, health and personal care, and gas stations.

A good rule of thumb is to work in a retail establishment before starting one, but if that’s not possible, conduct market research to ensure that there is a local want and need for your product.

Retail Bakery/Specialty Desserts

• Startup costs: $2,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $91,800+ (Salary.com)
• Future outlook: The specialty bakery market is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 4% from 2023 to 2030 (Credence Research).

If you want to make your “world famous” dessert recipe actually famous, opening your own bakery is the first step. Successful retail bakeries can make a decent income selling specialty desserts and don’t need to spend too much to get started.

Starting from a home kitchen or renting commercial kitchen space is a great low-cost way to begin a dessert business and avoid overspending on unnecessary overhead costs. However, if you do decide to take the at-home route, make sure you abide by your state’s Cottage Food Laws so you can continue providing safe and delicious treats from the comfort of your kitchen.

Direct Sales

• Startup costs: $1,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $224,000+ (Glassdoor)
• Future outlook: The global direct selling market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11.5% from 2023 to 2030 (Grand View Research).

While technological advancements may be hindering the growth potential of many small businesses and industries, sales are flourishing. There has always been—and foreseeably will be—demand for good salespeople to sell products in non-retail environments. If you can source a product that people want at a price they can afford and are able to demonstrate it convincingly, your business might be a sales success story. Some examples of direct sales companies include Amway, Avon, Mary Kay, and Tupperware.

Health & Fitness Businesses

Nutritionist

• Startup costs: $650+
• Earning potential: Up to $106,000+ (Indeed)
• Future outlook: Employment of dietitians and nutritionists is projected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS).

Nutritionists offer insights and advice on healthy eating habits to their clients. This is a business idea that can allow you to make a comfortable living for very little money down. Not only can you do nutrition work for people all over the world via the internet, but having strong industry connections can make for a maintenance-free referral network. Nutritionists can also work in the healthcare industry at medical practices and hospitals if they possess the necessary certification requirements.

First Aid/CPR Classes

• Startup costs: $400+
• Earning potential: Up to $75,000 (Talent.com)
• Future outlook: The first aid training market size is expected to grow by 4.8% from 2023 to 2032 (Zion Market Research).

For pennies on the dollar, many individuals trained in emergency care could make a business of teaching it. This is another business that is most wisely (and affordably) run from home and instructed from rented or community spaces. If you want to start a standalone school, however, the startup costs will be multiplied many times over. The medical-specific prerequisites for successfully starting this kind of business are CPR and First Aid Certification, Child and Infant CPR, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use, and American Red Cross instructor training.

Health Club/Fitness Center/Studio

• Startup costs: $65,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $130,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: Total revenue in the health & fitness market is expected to show an annual growth rate of 8.89% from 2022 to 2029 (Statista).

The fitness industry is primed to experience growth; businesses can span a wide range of exercise training and practices. The most apparent expenses in starting your fitness club would be the space, equipment, buildout, and employees. This can be costly depending on scale, but it comes with a high earning and growth potential, as customers from all age groups frequent these establishments.

Bear in mind that most industry revenue comes from membership fees, so setting sustainable service offerings and marketing your company to attract members will likely be necessary for your business model. Any trainers or instructors you hire may additionally require licenses and certifications (or at least benefit from them) depending on the services offered. Check with your state and local regulating bodies to confirm.

Consultant Businesses

Business Consulting

• Startup costs: $2,600+
• Earning potential: Up to $257,000 (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The business management consulting services market is estimated to register a CAGR of over 4.7% between 2024 and 2032 (Global Market Insights).

Lots of successful business people could become consultants. However, because “business consulting” is so broad, it’s wise to find a niche, either in your service offering or your target customer market. Furthermore, the business landscape is constantly evolving, so staying sharp and apprised of trends and developments in your field is necessary.

Tune into a few different associations to keep your thumb on the pulse of the industry; choose from The Institute of Management Consultants, the Professional and Technical Consultants Association, the Turnaround Management Association, and The Society of Professional Consultants. Doing so may even give you a better idea of what your unique corner of the market could be.

Art Dealing/Brokering/Corporate Art Consulting

• Startup costs: $1,300+
• Earning potential: Up to $132,000 (Salary.com)
• Future outlook: Demand for art dealers is projected to grow 4% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

It’s no secret that there is an incredible amount of money in fine art and its dealings. If you love art, then selling it may be right for you. Art is a commodity. You can keep initial startup costs low by selling online as a dealer before renting a location. You can also consider a pop-up shop at key locations. Keep in mind that eventually, having a physical location could play a central role in the business’s success, but so will your ability to make and keep professional relationships with industry contacts.

Travel Agency/Consulting

• Startup costs: $2,250+
• Earning potential: Up to $118,000 (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The online travel agencies market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 13.8% from 2023 to 2033 (Future Market Insights).

Another business with extremely low overhead and startup costs is putting those travel planning and logistical skills to work. Even though DIY travel planning is perfectly accessible, there’s still a need for agents with all the skills, resources, connections, and gumption to whip up the trip of a lifetime at a fair price. Any blogger can call themselves a travel agent or consultant, so consider backing up that title with certification from The Travel Institute.

Management Consulting

• Startup costs: $6,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $147,000+ (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The US management consulting services market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.87% during the forecast period of 2024 to 2029 (Globe Newswire).

“Management consulting” is a pretty broad term and can, therefore, be whatever you make of it, varying by market, niche, and client needs. Examples of niche focuses can include government compliance, the introduction of new technologies, and strategic planning. A large portion of this industry’s service offering is comprised explicitly of strategic planning, marketing, and human resources consulting. Consider your expertise and find the audience that needs that problem solved the most.

Tax Preparation Services

• Startup costs: $2,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $170,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The tax preparation services market size is poised to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2024 to 2030 (Precision Business Insights).

Tax preparation services can be added to an accounting business, but there’s enough demand for these services to stand alone. The type of services offered will determine whether or not a related degree or credential is necessary for the business. Because prerequisites vary by state, check out your state’s mandates. Regardless, you’ll need to register for a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) with the IRS. Start your application on the IRS website.

Disability Consulting

• Startup costs: $2,600+
• Earning potential: Up to $181,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The services for the elderly and persons with disabilities market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2024 to 2028 (The Business Research Company).

As the world attempts to become more inclusive, the need for disability consultants is rising. Companies are expected to meet Americans for Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations for their buildings and employee relations but don’t necessarily know how to. Therefore, a significant function of this business would be helping companies manage disability claims filed by their employees, reasonable accommodations, and general compliance. Experience and a related degree in this field will be necessary to bring to this business.

Technology Businesses

Computer Repair & Maintenance

• Startup costs: $6,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $63,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global computer repair services market is expected to grow at a rate of 4.1% from 2021 to 2026 (WifiTalents).

You don’t have to self-identify as a “geek” to join the growing squad of IT-fixers who earn money from their tech-savvy skills. Companies and individual consumers alike seek out computer repair and maintenance professionals to help them out of their technology-related jams.

But as more electronics and hardware products hit the market, you’ll need to keep up with the industry’s shifting trends. Maintaining quality supply chain contracts, updated technical knowledge, and competitive service and product offerings will help your repair skills stay in demand, even when consumers would otherwise be tempted to replace their electronics. Also, acquiring the latest relevant IT certifications is always a great way to enhance your technical skills and prove your competency to your future clients.

Web Design

• Startup costs: $1,500+
• Earning potential: $130,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The job outlook for web designers is projected as 23% growth from 2021 to 2031 (Noble Desktop).

Why does web design have so much earning potential? Because every single business on this list should invest in a website at launch. That’s 60 business sectors—among countless others—that require web design services to advertise and market their offerings. A related degree would help with the business credentials. Still, your best assets at the start are a remarkable website of your own (after all, it’s your best advertising), experience in coding and programming, good marketing and business instincts, and all the right equipment and software to work your magic.

Software Development

• Startup costs: $1,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $166,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: Employment for software developers is projected to grow 25% from 2022 to 2032 (Jessup University).

Also known as software engineering, front-end development, and web development, this can be a profitable business, whichever way you slice it. However, it is not the kind of business one can open right out of school; experience is key to this business, as are training in several computer languages and platforms and the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely to the client. Your most significant startup expenses will be top-of-the-line web hosting, software, and hardware.

Systems Integration

• Startup costs: $1,300+
• Earning potential: Up to $166,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The US system integrators market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.1%from 2024 to 2030 (Grand View Research).

Systems integration is another fruitful IT endeavor where you can make an independent living and practically never run out of work. Advanced and more robust IT systems can take businesses to the next level but require experts to integrate these systems across equipment, departments, individuals, and existing systems, old and new. Therefore, advanced technical and communication skills and knowledge of various systems, software, and equipment are necessary. Training and/or education will be a foundational prerequisite.

Construction, Trades & Handiwork

Handyman Network

• Startup costs: $650+
• Earning potential: Up to $75,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The handyman services market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10% from 2024 to 2031 (Verified Market Research).

Handyman services are always in demand, and anybody with home improvement, organizational, and people skills can develop a small network of contractors, or launch a solo business for less than $1,000. The prerequisite for this enterprise is skill, but good marketing and quality services at a fair price will also shape the business’s future success. And in this industry, decent insurance and workers’ compensation will be must-haves early in the game.

Builder/Construction Services

• Startup costs: $30,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $92,000+ (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The US construction industry is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.0% from 2024 to 2028 (Globe Newswire).

When starting a home building or construction service business, the size of the job will directly correlate to how much money your business brings in. Not only could a new business focus on big-ticket items like building and home construction projects, but you could also offer minor remodeling and niche home improvement services to maintain a steady income. Additionally, investing in a robust project management software system will help you to keep organized.

Decks & Custom Outdoor Furniture

• Startup costs: $5,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $65,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The North American commercial outdoor furniture market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% from 2024 to 2030, and the global decks market size is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2023 to 2030 [Grand View Research (1), (2)].

Building decks and custom outdoor furniture can be profitable with the right startup business investments. Businesses will require the necessary vehicles to transport their projects and materials, along with specialized equipment and storage locations. Business owners should also look into state and local requirements for a contractor’s/carpenter’s license to start and stay legal.

Wallpapering/Interior Painting

• Startup costs: $2,600+
• Earning potential: Up to $75,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The painting and wall covering contractors market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 2.5% from 2024 to 2028 (The Business Research Company).

Even as DIY becomes increasingly popular, people still need help painting or wallpapering their homes. Of course, you’ll need a vehicle for this business, but if a personal vehicle will suffice, the cost of necessary equipment doesn’t need to break the bank. Quality work and accurate, written, in-person estimates will help the business get a fair shot. Be sure to protect yourself by reviewing our article on insurance specific to painting companies.

Pressure Washing Service

• Startup costs: $19,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $52,500+ (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The pressure washing industry is expected to grow at a rate of 4.2% from 2024 to 2026 (MarketsandMarkets Research).

The initial expenses involved in starting a pressure washing enterprise are the equipment and the vehicle, both of which can be purchased or leased. The market for pressure washing is vast: residential property owners and managers, vehicle owners, government agencies, and commercial businesses. Building cleaning, be it one-time or a repeat, can be extremely lucrative when the operator charges by square footage of the surface being cleaned.

Mobile Automotive Detailing

• Startup costs: $6,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $118,000+ (Salary.com)
• Future outlook: The global mobile car wash & detailing market is expected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033 (Future Market Insights).

The only thing better than a location-based service is one that meets the customer where they are. While many service businesses enjoy low startup costs, if an automotive detailer is going mobile, they must invest in a reliable, reasonably nice-looking vehicle, tools, and equipment. Also, remember that when driving your business vehicle, you’re inside a moving billboard, so it is helpful to have some great branding and contact information for the business on your automobile.

Marketing Businesses

Advertising Agency

• Startup costs: $7,000+
• Earning potential: Up to $194,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global advertising agencies market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.50% from 2023 to 2032 (Credence Research).

Setting up an Advertising or Marketing agency requires a couple of foundational basics, which include a background in advertising and the development of a skillset and a network. You will need top-of-the-line IT equipment, software, and a sensational brand identity. Advertising and marketing are visual mediums; the first way you’ll be marketing your agency is through the brand you put forward. A portfolio of past work and success you garnered up to this point will also help you gain new clients.

Commercial Photography

• Startup costs: $3,900+
• Earning potential: $77,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global commercial photography market is expected to grow at a rate of 2.2% from 2022 to 2032 (Fact.MR).

The photography industry is a largely unregulated one, making it relatively easy to enter. A new entrant into this field will do well to invest in high-quality equipment and find a good niche. This industry is wildly competitive, so a new business owner will require flexibility in travel, adaptability in products and services, and good value behind their products, services, and prices. Because commercial photographers usually work for marketing and advertising campaigns, a symbiotic referral and partnership network would help guarantee more opportunities.

Public Relations

• Startup costs: $6,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $134,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The public relations services market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2024 to 2030 (Verified Market Research).

Public relations professionals and firms are in the business of “image” and contribute to the maintenance of their clients’ brands. Whether it’s promoting products and services on behalf of a firm, monitoring media coverage, or writing press releases, a public relations firm serves the client’s best public interests.

This industry is largely self-regulated, and a startup PR firm would be wise to have a related degree or training, experience, a trade association membership to the PR Council, and an acute knowledge of FTC regulations that apply to public relations, marketing, and advertising activities.

Health & Human Services Businesses

Children’s Day Care

• Startup costs: $1,300+
• Earning potential: Up to $56,000 (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The childcare market is expected to continue growing at a CAGR of 4.99% from 2024 to 2030. (Globe Newswire)

Starting a daycare from home might not make one a millionaire, but it is a good business idea for people with low startup budgets. Additionally, running a daycare could be a highly rewarding and gratifying career for someone who loves kids. Of course, be sure that you obtain all of the appropriate licenses to operate and closely follow state and zoning regulations, especially for a low-overhead home-based daycare.

Adult Day Care

• Startup costs: $1,300+
• Earning potential: Up to $60,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The adult daycare market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 5.10% from 2023 to 2030 (Grand View Research).

If you have a kind inclination toward the elderly, starting an adult daycare could be a good use of time. With low startup costs for a home-based business, there’s plenty of room for revenue. However, “care” is the keyword, so be sure to have stringent employee screening and training that includes first aid and CPR certifications!

Nanny Service

• Startup costs: $19,500 to $50,000
• Earning potential: Up to $76,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The nanny job growth rate is projected as 6% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

Nanny services perform duties that are similar to daycares, as well as assisting clients with other domestic tasks like transporting children to their activities and helping with chores. Nannies are also usually responsible for one or two households at once and serve their families over longer-term contract periods, making them a more personal and intimate alternative to daycare.

This may be why the job growth rate is projected to increase, making this a profitable business undertaking. Of course, a nanny service’s earning potential is dependent on the number of nannies they employ. But if you can take care of the startup costs for payroll, employee benefits, insurance, and overhead, you can start hiring more nannies for your service, and enjoy more revenue as a result!

Businesses for Animal Lovers

Dog Training

• Startup costs: $600+
• Earning potential: Up to $176,000+ (Indeed)
• Future outlook: The US pet training services market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% from 2021 through 2026 (Arizton).

If you have a passion for four-legged friends, a dog training business is a low-cost choice that can yield high-dollar results. Start-up costs generally only include the price of relevant certifications and other credentials that will boost your reputation and competitiveness. But while these courses are helpful, word-of-mouth will get you the furthest with acquiring new customers. So, make sure you maintain a positive track record with your clients, and you’ll be set for success.

Pet Sitting

• Startup costs: $200 to $10,000
• Earning potential: Up to $45,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global pet sitting market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.8% from 2025 to 2030 (Grand View Research).

We all love our furry friends, and many people will pay top dollar to keep their pets happy, safe, and entertained. That’s where you come in, to help these busy owners by watching their beloved companions.

You’ll likely be suited to the role if you have experience with animal care, a flexible schedule, and a willingness to stay at the client’s home during the pet sitting session. Bonus points if you’re able to provide a safe and caring environment to watch pets in your own home, as some clients prefer this. Just remember to maintain a good reputation with both the pet and the owner, and secure some business insurance as well to protect yourself during your pet playdates.

Pet Taxi

• Startup costs: $15,000 to $40,000
• Earning potential: Up to $47,500 with just one vehicle (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global pet travel services market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.69% from 2024 to 2030 (Grand View Research).

The global pet travel services market is growing, and if you have a vehicle, license, and love for animals—you too could get in on the action. Pet taxis and other transportation services shuttle pets to and from their appointments, like the vet, groomers, and pet daycare facilities.

But before you start up your own pet taxi service, you’ll want to ensure that you are prepared for the costs and regulations involved. Research factors like vehicle requirements, insurance, and any standards for your service area. These regulations can vary based on the species you will be transporting and other factors. To help you get started, check out the USDA Animal Care Licensing and Registration Assistant to learn about applicable licenses and regulations for this practice.

Outdoorsy Businesses

Herb/Flower Farming & Nursery

• Startup costs: $1,300 to $4,000 (unless you need land)
• Earning potential: Up to $127,000+ (Glassdoor)
• Future outlook: The greenhouse, nursery, and flowers market size is predicted to increase at a CAGR of 7.5% from 2024 to 2028 (The Business Research Company).

From growing herbs and flowers to selling them, your business will have various ways to bring in a profit, like direct-to-customer sales or selling wholesale. That said, startup costs for these businesses can vary and are highly dependent on whether you need land to get your plants (and business) growing. If you’re interested in this career path, take a look at the USDA First Steps for New Farmers Checklist to help you get started.

Outdoor Adventure Guide

• Startup costs: $6,500 to $15,000
• Earning potential: Up to $79,000 (Glassdoor)
• Future outlook: The outdoor adventure tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.75% from 2023 to 2031 (Market Research Pulse).

Outdoor adventure guides can take advantage of the growing market while enjoying nature. Depending on their location and experience, these professionals can guide tourists through wildlife, from climbing mountains to traveling abroad to explore the world’s wonderful natural scenery. While the job may sound especially fun for thrill-seekers, you’ll want to have training, good insurance, legal waivers, and safety protocols set in place to make sure you and the folks you’re guiding complete your adventure in one piece.

Flower Scaping

• Startup costs: $6,500 to $15,000
• Earning potential: Up to $79,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The floriculture market is projected to increase at a CAGR of 3.7% from 2019 to 2023 (Future Market Insights).

You’ve probably heard of landscaping—flower scaping is a service falling under that business category. This is a more ornamental form of landscaping service, only to do with flowers and flowering plants. Because of this, flower scaping can serve as an add-on service to an existing landscaping business or can lean further into decor by serving as garnishment for events. While an eye for design is helpful, it is even more advantageous to gain training in a field like ornamental horticulture to enter this line of business.

Tutoring, Training & Coaching Businesses

Life Coaching

• Startup costs: $1,500 to $3,000
• Earning potential: Up to $92,000 (Glassdoor)
• Future outlook: Demand for life coaches is projected to grow 20% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

Life coaches are all about all-around, holistic, sustainable personal improvement for their clients, with a focus on support in relationships, career, health, organization, and more. Other than some basic tech equipment and skills like listening, people, excellent organization, and communication, a life coach should consider general liability insurance because of the gravity of the work and International Coaching Federation (ICF) Credentials to help establish expertise early on.

Personal Training

• Startup costs: $130 to 10,000
• Earning potential: Up to $90,000+ (Indeed)
• Future outlook: Employment for fitness trainers and instructors is projected to grow 14% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS).

With low barriers to entry and startup costs, high earning potential, and an expected annual growth rate of 14% through the year 2033, this industry is ideal for those looking to start a small business. In addition to being adept in fitness and nutrition, one could greatly benefit from adequate certification. Check out our comprehensive article below for a full guide on starting a personal training business.

Computer Literacy & Skills Training

• Startup costs: $600 to $10,000
• Earning potential: Up to $119,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: Demand for computer trainer jobs is projected to grow 10% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

According to the National Skills Coalition, about a third of US adults are considered digitally illiterate, so there continues to be a need for those who can teach essential skills and train these Americans. Community organizations, nonprofits, and libraries are good places to start offering computer classes. With advanced video conferencing technology, online coaching and training have become easier than ever before.

Private Tutoring

• Startup costs: $650 to $10,000
• Earning potential: Up to $131,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: Employment for tutors is projected to grow by 1% from 2023 to 2033 (BLS).

When tutoring a child of any age—from kindergarten to high school seniors—you may find yourself providing both educational and emotional guidance, as learning disabilities or deficiencies can result from emotional blocks. Therefore, kindness and compassion are key to succeeding as a private tutor. You can offer this service in person or virtually across the globe, and experience or a degree in teaching and your area of expertise will be a significant benefit.

Dance Lessons/Studio

• Startup costs: $2,000 to $50,000
• Earning potential: Up to $126,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The projected job growth rate for dance teachers is 12% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

Of course, starting dance classes out of your home or at available local venues will be significantly less expensive than opening a full-blown studio. As with any business, starting small and setting yourself up for success and sustainable growth once your good reputation precedes you is helpful.

Cooking Classes

• Startup costs: $2,500+
• Earning potential: Up to $101,000 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The global online cooking class market size is projected to exhibit a CAGR of 11.3% from 2023 through 2032 (Business Research Insights).

Whether you would offer cooking classes as a full-time commitment or to supplement an existing culinary career, this is a relatively easy business to launch. This is especially true if you don’t need to rent or lease space but get paid by vocational schools and community organizations to teach on their campuses. Consider offering specialized adult or children’s cooking classes to appeal to even more customers. As you build a customer base and name over time, consider renting a location for your own cooking school.

Test Preparation Services

• Startup costs: $1,000 to $5,000
• Earning potential: Up to $121,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The US test preparation market size is expected to increase at a CAGR of 7.6% between 2023 and 2028 (Technavio).

Along with tutoring, this is a business that you can operate from a home office where you would engage with clients virtually or can be carried out in person, either in your home, their own homes, or in public places.

Your best audience for test prep is soon-to-be high school graduates looking to prepare for standardized tests such as the SAT, ACT, GRE, MCAT, and LSAT. This business can also lend itself to one-on-one coaching as well as group training classes. A degree in a related field can be helpful, and some states will require some sort of teaching certificate.

Personal Shopping/Styling

• Startup costs: $200 to $2,500
• Earning potential: Up to $68,500 (ZipRecruiter)
• Future outlook: The projected personal stylist job growth rate is 11% from 2018 to 2028 (Zippia).

If you have an eye for fashion, you may be a good candidate for a personal shopping career. While life coaches and personal shoppers each create personalized experiences to help their clients, personal shoppers focus primarily on styling and shopping services. The duties of this role can range from picking out groceries to shopping for the client’s entire wardrobe.

To stand out in a crowded market now populated with branded services like Stitch Fix, you’ll want to select a niche for yourself. Additionally, don’t forget to establish an hourly rate that accounts for your transportation, skill level, and time.

What Makes a Good Business Idea

To maximize your potential for success, you will want to choose a business idea that exhibits profitable qualities. But what exactly makes a business idea “good?” Well, these ideas tend to have similar assets in common.

Good business ideas offer solutions to existing issues or needs. Your business’s product or service should address a demand within the market and be centered around the customer’s desires. By addressing problems that exist within the customers’ lives, they will be more inclined to seek out your business’s offerings.

However, while market demand is important, many competing businesses will try to pursue the same customers, especially if they fall within a heavily saturated market. To separate your business from its competitors, consider ways you can embrace a specific niche or specialized trait. Differentiation is important and can lead to strong brand loyalty among your clients.

Once you have some ideas in mind, you can begin to consider each of them with regard to their feasibility, implementation, and sustainability. First, ask yourself whether you would be able to afford the initial investments that would be required to begin your operations. Remember that training and other business requirements can differ between states, so it is important to check out the regulations associated with your area.

Sustainable businesses are able to maintain a competitive advantage in a constantly changing industry. Their flexibility enables them to adapt accordingly to market changes that could otherwise pose a financial risk. A sustainable pricing model is another important facet of a successful business, as accurately pricing your services or products based on market conditions and business expenses will help you maintain healthy profit margins.

Finally, a good business idea should be one that you can practice for a long time. Try to select a venture that you are interested in or pertains to a subject that you are passionate about. For example, someone with a passion for pets is better suited to run a business for pet sitting than mobile automotive detailing. Choosing a career that is enjoyable and aligns with your personal interest will help you maintain the drive and energy necessary for your business to thrive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These are some questions we often encounter about business ideas to make money.

Which business is best for earning money?

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What business is most profitable?

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What is the easiest business to make money?

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What is the best business to start for $1,000?

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Bottom Line

This list of 60 business ideas ranges greatly across industry sectors and in terms of startup expenses, expertise, potential revenue, requirements, and more. However, this demonstrates that any aspiring entrepreneur can find an idea that meets their unique capabilities and requirements.

Whether you choose to follow a path based on your creativity, expertise, or even sense of adventure, there is enough demand in the world for you to turn your passion into a profitable business. And although you may have to make initial investments, with enough knowledge and motivation, you’ll be able to earn it back and then some. After all, doing something you love is worth its weight in gold.