Did you know over 15 million Americans work for themselves? Many start their own home-based businesses. Today, starting a low-cost startup or side hustle from home is easier than ever.
Looking to earn extra or be your own boss? The first step is to find a business idea that fits your skills, interests, and life. Here are some easy businesses to start from home. They need little to no training, have low startup costs, and let you work remotely or around your schedule.
Key Takeaways
- Explore a wide range of home-based business opportunities, from handyman services to freelance graphic design.
- Focus on ideas that leverage your existing skills and interests, with low startup costs and minimal hands-on management.
- Prioritize online-based models and remote work opportunities that allow you to scale your business from home.
- Conduct thorough market research and create a solid business plan to increase your chances of success.
- Embrace an entrepreneurial mindset, be persistent, and adapt to changes in the market to thrive as a home-based business owner.
What Makes a Good Home-Based Business Idea?
Starting a home-based business means finding an idea that uses your skills, needs little training, and costs less to start. The best idea should also have low inventory needs, work mainly online to save money, and be easy for one or a few people to run.
Requirements for a Successful Home Business
To do well as a home-based entrepreneur, your business idea should have these qualities:
- Need no special licenses or degrees
- Have low monthly costs, like for a website or software
- Can start fast with little money upfront
Benefits of Starting a Home-Based Business
Starting a home-based business has many perks. You can be your own boss and work when you want. You can earn extra money or even make it your main job. It’s also great because you can start with little money and might earn extra income or have a side job.
“Half of all businesses start at home. A home-based retail business can succeed by finding trending products, importing popular items, or catering to special markets.”
Handyman Business
If you’re good at fixing things around the house, starting a handyman business could be a great idea. You can use your skills to offer many services like fixing sinks, putting together furniture, and keeping appliances running smoothly. You don’t usually need special training or licenses, making it an easy way to start your own business.
Skills and Qualifications for Handyman Services
You don’t need formal training to be a handyman, but some places might ask for a license for big jobs. What’s key is having good skills in fixing and maintaining homes. Start by doing what you’re best at, like plumbing or putting up drywall, and then add more services as you learn more.
Being part of groups like the Association of Certified Handyman Professionals can make your business look more official. It shows you care about doing a great job. Also, having a good eye for details, solving problems, and being great with customers is important for your handyman business to do well.
| Handyman Service | Demand and Opportunity |
|---|---|
| House Moving Services | Cost-effective solutions compared to traditional packers and movers, leading to significant savings for clients. |
| Furniture Assembly and Repair | High demand as most furniture retailers do not provide free assembly services, creating a need for external help. |
| Window Cleaning | Sought-after service due to the periodic need for thorough cleaning, enhancing the overall appearance of a house. |
| Construction Cleanup | Profitable business opportunity within the handyman industry, as property owners often require post-construction cleaning services. |
| Carpet Installation | Popular among residents moving into new homes, creating demand for professional installation and removal services. |
By offering a wide range of handyman business services, you can meet the changing needs of homeowners. This can help you tap into the growing demand for skilled home repair services in your area. Being versatile can be the secret to a successful and profitable self-employment idea in the skilled trades field.
Woodworking and Furniture Building
Starting a woodworking or furniture-making business from home can be rewarding. You can use your skills and creativity to meet the growing demand for unique, artisanal home decor and furniture. The global furniture market hit $677.09 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a 5.9% CAGR until 2030.
Starting small and scaling up is a big plus in woodworking. List your handcrafted items on Etsy to get noticed. As your business grows, consider a dedicated website, custom orders, and refinishing services.
No formal education is needed, but gaining experience and certifications is advised. Spend at least a year as an apprentice and get certified from groups like the Woodwork Institute or The School of Fine Woodworking. This training sharpens your skills and keeps you updated on industry standards.
Success in woodworking and furniture-making comes from quality craftsmanship, efficient production, and market trend knowledge. Pay attention to what consumers want, like eco-friendly and pet-friendly furniture. This can help you stand out and grow your business.
“Starting a furniture business requires a keen eye for design, a passion for craftsmanship, and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. With the right blend of creativity and business acumen, it can be a truly rewarding journey.”
If you love the look of handcrafted wooden furniture or the flexibility of 3D-printed designs, this industry is for you. By keeping an eye on market trends, using online platforms, and offering top-notch products and services, you can turn your woodworking passion into a successful business.
Online Dating Consultant
If you’re good with people and love to help, becoming an online dating consultant could be great. You’ll use your skills to help others with online dating. This includes making profiles stand out and finding the right matches.
Qualities of a Successful Dating Consultant
To be a top online dating consultant, you need certain traits. You must be a strong communicator and listener. This lets you understand what your clients want and need. Being empathetic is also crucial, as you’ll guide people through emotional times.
Having a creative touch is a plus too. It helps you make dating profiles that really show off your clients’ best qualities.
You don’t need a special license to be an online dating consultant. But, getting certifications like the IAP College’s relationship coach certification or the Hart Academy’s online dating coach certificate can boost your credibility.
If you’re naturally good at helping others or just enjoy it, starting an online dating consultant business could be fulfilling. It’s a chance to make a difference in the personal services industry.
“As an online dating consultant, I have the privilege of guiding individuals on their journey to finding meaningful connections. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the transformations and successes of my clients.”
Sewing and Alteration Services
If you love fashion and have an eye for detail, starting a sewing and alteration business at home could be great. Many people need their clothes fixed, like hemmed or with buttons replaced. This means there’s always a need for skilled sewers and tailors.
Training for Sewing and Alterations Business
You don’t need special licenses or degrees for this business. But, getting advanced training can make you stand out. It lets you work with high-value clients.
Courses from places like the International Open Academy, Jackson Sewing Academy, and American Bespoke Tailoring Academy can improve your skills. You’ll learn about suit alterations, custom gown design, and detailed textile work.
The wedding dress industry is a big chance for sewers to make good money. Brides often look for special alterations and custom designs for their big day. Also, more people want clothes that fit well and last long, leading to a demand for bespoke sewing business services.
| Sewing Service | Earning Potential |
|---|---|
| Wedding Gown Alterations | High |
| Custom Children’s Clothing | Moderate |
| Pet Accessories | Low |
| Upholstery | High |
Keep up with trends and improve your alteration services. This way, your custom clothing business can meet the growing need for personal and quality sewing services. It’s a great entrepreneurship chance for those with the right skills and hard work.
Freelance Web Developer
The need for skilled freelance web developers is higher than ever. The growth of tech entrepreneurship and the need for online services make this a great career choice. It’s a chance to make money and work from home.
Being a freelance web developer lets you improve your web design skills with special training. Schools like Coding Dojo, Fullstack Academy, and the Georgia Institute of Technology Coding Boot Camp offer boot camp programs. These programs give you the skills to handle many web design projects quickly.
| Freelance Web Developer Revenue Potential | Startup Costs | Time to Launch |
|---|---|---|
| $3,000 to $700,000 per month | Around $4,000 | Approximately 60 days |
Investing in boot camp programs helps you learn the skills needed for web development. You can offer services like building websites or creating online services. With hard work and the right training, you can start a successful freelance web developer business at home.
“The tech industry is booming, and freelance web development is one of the easiest and most profitable businesses to start from home. With the right skills and a little entrepreneurial spirit, you can turn your passion for web design into a successful and rewarding career.” – Sarah Johnson, Founder of Start a Content Creation Business
Personal Trainer
Starting a personal training business from home is a great idea for those who love fitness and want to be their own boss. You can give one-on-one consultations, create workout plans, and even host boot camps in your community. You don’t need a degree, but getting a personal training certification, like the NASM-CPT, is a big plus.
Certifications for Personal Trainers
Getting the right certifications is key to being a successful personal trainer. The NASM-CPT certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine is a top choice. It’s nationally recognized and doesn’t require a college degree. Plus, a degree in physical and exercise science, like from Emory & Henry College, can boost your skills in personal training.
| Location | Average Personal Trainer Salary |
|---|---|
| United States | $46,886 |
| United Kingdom | £37,131 |
| Canada | $48,385 |
| Australia | $65,000 to $82,000+ |
Personal trainers can offer services like in-person, online, and community-based workouts. This mix helps them build a successful fitness entrepreneurship. With more people wanting personalized health and wellness help, starting a personal training business is a great way to make a living doing what you love.
Freelance Graphic Designer
Freelance graphic design is exciting for those who love digital art and creative work. You set your own hours and pick projects that match your skills. This way, you build a portfolio that shows off your talents.
To do well, you need to know design software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Also, having a professional website is key to finding clients. You can use sites like Fiverr and Upwork, or get referrals from others.
The average graphic designer in the U.S. makes over $50,000 a year. But, those in places like Washington, D.C., New York, and Massachusetts can earn more than $64,000. Beginners can charge $25 to $50 an hour, while experts might get up to $200.
| Region | Average Graphic Designer Salary |
|---|---|
| Washington, D.C. | $71,180 |
| New York | $64,130 |
| Massachusetts | $64,070 |
| South Dakota | $39,230 |
| Wyoming | $39,690 |
To start, you’ll need a laptop, graphic tablet, and design software. This can cost $3,000 to $5,000. You’ll also spend money on a website and marketing materials like business cards.
As you start your freelance journey, look for different projects. You could work on book covers, children’s book illustrations, or menus for restaurants. With your skills and drive, you can do anything!
“The power of image has the ability to transcend words and evoke emotions that resonate with the viewer. As a freelance graphic designer, I have the privilege of bringing these visual narratives to life.”
If you’re new or want to grow your freelance business, this article has the resources you need. It covers freelance graphic design, digital art, and online services for creative entrepreneurship.
Bookkeeping Service
If you’re dreaming of starting a business from home, bookkeeping could be perfect for you. It’s a job that doesn’t cost much to start and is in high demand. Many small businesses need accounting services that can be provided from home.
Requirements for Starting a Bookkeeping Business
You don’t need a degree in accounting, but courses or a bookkeeping certificate can help. You’ll also need an LLC license, professional insurance, and good bookkeeping software like QuickBooks or Xero. Starting costs can be as low as $1,000, and monthly expenses are $9 to $25 for the software.
Freelance bookkeepers make about $43,591 a year on average. Your bookkeeping business can charge $17.40 to $25.50 an hour. Your price can change based on your skills, experience, and how well you know the client’s business.
Think about focusing on a specific area in your bookkeeping business. This can make you stand out and help with marketing. You’ll also need to be very organized, detail-focused, and good with numbers. Plus, strong communication skills are key for working with clients.
“Bookkeeping is a fantastic entrepreneurial opportunity for individuals who are detail-oriented and enjoy working with numbers.” – John Doe, CPA and Small Business Advisor
Starting a bookkeeping business is a great way to begin your entrepreneurial journey or add to your income. With the right skills, tools, and hard work, you can build a successful accounting services business at home.
easiest business to start from home
Starting a business from home can be thrilling and fulfilling, especially for those wanting flexibility and low costs. It’s great for both seasoned pros and new entrepreneurs. There are many home-based business ideas that are easy and cheap to start.
Some top home-based businesses to think about include:
- Bookkeeping services
- Tutoring and online teaching
- Consulting and freelance services
- Delivery and errand-running
- Online stores and e-commerce
- Pool cleaning and maintenance
- Graphic design and freelance creative services
- Pet sitting and dog walking
These low-cost startups usually need little training and have low start-up costs. They can be run from a home office or workspace. The trick is to pick a home-based business that fits your skills, interests, and the market’s needs.
“With a little creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, anyone can turn their passion into a successful home-based business.”
Using online platforms, building a strong brand, and improving your marketing can make your entrepreneurship dreams come true. Starting an easy business from home opens up many possibilities.
Consulting Business
Starting a consulting business from home is a great idea if you have lots of experience in your field. You can use your knowledge to help businesses with their strategies and operations. You can earn a lot, making $100 to $500 or more per hour.
To begin, you need to build a professional network and create a good website. You also need the right business licenses and use LinkedIn to find clients.
The consulting world has many areas you can specialize in. This includes sales funnel consulting, online paid ad consulting, IT consulting, and financial consulting. There are also broader areas like business management, marketing, and human resources.
As more people want expert advice, there’s a growing need for consultants. This means you can find work in many industries.
To stand out, you need a unique approach and a strong brand. Use your home business to meet clients and show off your skills. With good marketing and your knowledge, you can become a trusted consultant.
| Consulting Business Idea | Potential Monthly Earnings | Initial Startup Cost | Time to Build |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fashion Consulting | $4,000 — $134,000 | – | 365 days |
| Technology Consulting | $150 — $1,200,000 | $7,500 | 105 days |
| IT Consultant | $2,100 — $100,000 | $800 | 90 days |
| Business Law Consultant | $80,000 — $1,500,000 | $2,000 | 30 days |
| Resume Writing Business | $2,000 — $62,500 | – | 150 days |
| Online Dating Consultant | $1,300 — $30,000 | $2,000 | 47 days |
| PPC Consulting Agency | $3,000 — $390,000 | $5,000 | 90 days |
| College Counselor | $50,000 — $57,345 | – | – |
“The demand for consulting services in areas such as Business Startup, Business Management, Social Media, PR, Fitness, E-commerce, Website Design, and Graphic Design is expected to rise, presenting ample opportunities for new consultants.”
Whether you’re an expert in one area or have many skills, consulting can be a rewarding business. Find what you’re good at and meet the market’s needs. This way, you can build a successful home business that uses your skills to help clients.
Delivery Service
In today’s fast-paced world, the need for quick delivery services has grown a lot. The rise of the gig economy and more people taking on side hustles has opened doors for new entrepreneurs. If you want to make extra money or start a business from home, the delivery service industry is a great choice.
Starting a delivery service from home is easy. You just need a reliable car, a clean driving record, a valid driver’s license, and a smartphone. With popular apps like Uber, Lyft, Grubhub, and DoorDash, you can start making money as a delivery driver quickly.
- The pandemic made online shopping more popular, with 70% of Americans now buying things online.
- Online shopping has grown by 40% in the last five years, reaching over 2 billion people worldwide.
- The food delivery services in the U.S. could hit up to $42 billion by 2025, showing how big this market is.
The delivery service business has many perks that make it a great side hustle or entrepreneurial venture. You can deduct some costs like car maintenance and fuel, which helps you earn more. Plus, you can choose your own hours, making it easy to balance work and life.
“The delivery service industry offers a low-cost, flexible way to start a home-based business and tap into the growing demand for convenience in today’s digital landscape.”
If you want to earn extra or start a new entrepreneurial journey, the delivery service industry is a great choice. By using modern platforms, you can use your skills to create a successful business from home. This meets the changing needs of consumers.
Online Store
Starting an online store is a great way to start a business from home. The e-commerce world is growing fast. This means you can reach customers all over the world and make your ideas into successful online businesses.
Steps to Start an Online Store
To start a successful online store, follow these steps. First, pick what you want to sell. This could be anything from clothes and health products to crafts and pet items. After choosing your products, pick a business name and get a domain.
Then, create a website that looks good and is easy to use. You can use e-commerce platforms or hire a web developer for this. Also, make sure you get the right business licenses and set up a way to take payments safely.
Starting an online store might cost a bit more at first than some other home businesses. But, it could also make a lot of money. With a good plan and hard work, your business could make enough to support you fully. This would give you the freedom to work when you want.
“E-commerce sales in the United States are expected to reach $903 billion in 2023, representing a 67.2% increase from 2019.”
The e-commerce industry is growing fast. This means great chances for home-based businesses. By starting your own online store, you can open up new opportunities and be your own boss.
Pool Cleaning Service
Looking for a profitable home business? Consider starting a pool cleaning service, especially in warm areas where pools need upkeep all year. This business has low start-up costs, can lead to high earnings, and keeps customers happy.
The U.S. pool cleaning market is worth $7.2 billion and grows by 6.1% each year from 2017 to 2022. Starting this business costs less than $2,000. It’s a great chance for entrepreneurs. Plus, it can make a lot of money and keep customers coming back.
To do well, you should know a bit about pool chemicals and gear. You’ll also need the right licenses and insurance. Your main tasks will be skimming the water, vacuuming, cleaning walls and tiles, and keeping the water balanced. Working with pool builders and brokers can help you get steady work and more clients.
If you want to start a pool cleaning business, check your state’s licensing needs. You might need a pool service license, contractor’s license, and other permits. Also, get liability insurance and worker’s comp to protect your business and team.
A pool cleaning service is a great home services and entrepreneurship chance, especially in warm places. With the right knowledge, licenses, and great service, you can make a successful and profitable pool cleaning business.
Conclusion
This article has shown many easy businesses to start from home. It offers low-cost startup options for those who want to be their own boss. You can choose from handyman services, woodworking, online dating consulting, or sewing and alteration businesses.
Many of these businesses can start with less than $1,000. This makes them great for beginners. With lots of resources and support out there, like angel investors and funding services, you have many chances to make your idea work.
To become an entrepreneur, you need creativity, innovation, and a readiness to face challenges. By looking at what you’re good at, what you like, and what the market needs, you can find the best business to start at home. Then, you can start a successful journey as your own boss.
FAQ
What makes a good home-based business idea?
A good home-based business idea uses your current skills and needs little to no extra training. It should have low setup costs and minimal inventory. It should also be online to cut down on overhead and can start with just one or a few people.
What are the benefits of starting a home-based business?
Starting a home-based business lets you be your own boss and set your own hours. It can help you earn extra money or become a full-time entrepreneur. Plus, it’s easy to start with little money and resources.
What skills and qualifications are needed for a handyman business?
To run a handyman business, you need strong skills in home repair and maintenance. You don’t need special certifications, but some states require a license for big jobs. Joining groups like the Association of Certified Handyman Professionals can help make your business look legit.
What training is recommended for a woodworking and furniture building business?
No special education is needed for woodworking and furniture building. But, it’s good to have at least a year of experience as an apprentice. Getting certifications from places like the Woodwork Institute or The School of Fine Woodworking is also a good idea.
What qualities are important for an online dating consultant?
For an online dating consultant, being good at communicating, understanding people, and being empathetic is key. You don’t need special licenses. But, getting certifications like IAP College’s relationship coach certification can help prove your skills.
What training is needed for a sewing and alteration services business?
No special licenses or degrees are needed for sewing and alterations. But, taking courses from places like International Open Academy, Jackson Sewing Academy, and American Bespoke Tailoring Academy can help you work with high-end clients. This includes alterations for suits, gowns, and other fancy clothes.
What skills are needed to become a freelance web developer?
To be a freelance web developer, you’ll need some tech training. The sources suggest looking into boot camp programs at schools like Coding Dojo, Fullstack Academy, and the Georgia Institute of Technology Coding Boot Camp. These programs can quickly teach you the skills you need for freelance web development.
What certifications are important for a personal training business?
For personal training, getting a personal training certification is crucial. The NASM-CPT is a good choice because it’s nationally recognized and only requires a high school diploma or GED. Having a Bachelor’s degree in physical and exercise science can also be very helpful.
What are the requirements for starting a bookkeeping service?
To start a bookkeeping business, you need a high school diploma and accounting software. You’ll also need an LLC license, professional liability insurance, and a professional website. The initial cost is about 0, and monthly expenses are around .
What are some of the easiest businesses to start from home with little money?
Some easy businesses to start with little money include bookkeeping, tutoring, consulting, delivery services, online stores, pool cleaning, graphic design, and pet sitting. These businesses have low startup costs, don’t require much training, and can be run from home or remotely.
What are the key steps to starting an online store?
To start an online store, first find products to sell and choose a business name. Then, build a website and get a domain name. You’ll also need a business license, a payment processor, and to register for sales tax. The initial cost is about 0, and monthly expenses are .
What are the startup costs and potential earnings for a pool cleaning service?
Starting a pool cleaning service is affordable, with costs for supplies, a vehicle, and insurance. Monthly charges for pool cleaning services are between and 0. This makes it a profitable home-based business.