Are you looking to become your own boss and start a business that you can launch quickly and affordably? Service businesses are an excellent choice. They require minimal upfront investment, rely on your skills and expertise, and can be tailored to meet local demand. In this article, we’ll share 87 service business ideas you can start today, along with tips to succeed and answers to common questions.
Why Start a Service Business?
Service businesses are popular for several reasons:
- Low Start-Up Costs: Most require little more than your skills, basic equipment, or a computer.
- High Local Demand: People are always looking for services like cleaning, tutoring, or pet care.
- Flexibility: You can operate part-time, full-time, or even remotely, depending on the service.
87 Service Businesses You Can Start Today
Here’s a comprehensive list categorized by industry to help you find the right fit:
Personal Services
These services focus on assisting individuals in their daily lives:
- Personal training
- Life coaching
- Event planning
- Pet sitting or dog walking
- Personal shopping
- Errand running
- Professional organizing
- Makeup artistry
- Hairstyling
- Babysitting or nanny services
Home Services
For those who enjoy hands-on work, home services are always in demand:
- House cleaning
- Lawn care and landscaping
- Handyman services
- Painting
- Window cleaning
- Home staging
- Pool maintenance
- Pest control
- Pressure washing
- Gutter cleaning
Technology Services
If you’re tech-savvy, these options could be perfect:
- IT support
- Website design
- App development
- SEO consulting
- Social media management
- Graphic design
- Video editing
- Virtual assistance
- Data entry
- Tech tutoring
Business Services
Help other businesses grow with your expertise:
- Bookkeeping
- Tax preparation
- Marketing consulting
- Business coaching
- HR consulting
- Copywriting
- Resume writing
- Translation services
- Grant writing
- Research services
Educational Services
Teach or guide others in a specific area of expertise:
- Tutoring
- Test preparation coaching
- Language instruction
- Music lessons
- Dance instruction
- Art classes
- STEM workshops
- Cooking classes
- College admissions counseling
- Online course creation
Health and Wellness Services
Support people in improving their physical or mental well-being:
- Yoga instruction
- Nutrition coaching
- Massage therapy
- Acupuncture
- Meditation coaching
- Reiki healing
- Hypnotherapy
- Fitness boot camps
- Aromatherapy services
- Weight loss coaching
Creative Services
For the artistic and imaginative:
- Photography
- Videography
- Custom crafting or jewelry making
- Interior decorating
- Floristry
- Calligraphy
- Personal gift consulting
- Event entertainment (e.g., DJ or magician)
- Mural painting
- Creative writing
Transportation Services
If you have a reliable vehicle, these options are ideal:
- Rideshare driving
- Delivery services
- Moving assistance
- Courier services
- Senior transportation
- Vehicle detailing
- Bicycle repair
- Parking lot cleaning
- Boat cleaning or detailing
- Errand transportation
Niche Services
Unique ideas that cater to specific interests:
- Genealogy research
- Wardrobe styling
- Sustainability consulting
- Disaster cleanup services
- Farm sitting
- Drone operation services
- Virtual reality entertainment setup
How to Succeed in a Service Business
- Focus on High-Demand Services
Identify services that are needed in your area. For instance, if pet ownership is common, consider pet sitting or grooming services. - Start Small and Scale Gradually
Begin with a single service or a small client base. As your reputation grows, expand your offerings. - Prioritize Customer Satisfaction
Excellent service leads to repeat customers and referrals. Always go the extra mile to exceed expectations. - Market Effectively
Use social media, online directories, and word-of-mouth to promote your business. A professional website can also build credibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which service business is the easiest to start?
Errand running, pet sitting, and virtual assistance are easy to start because they require minimal equipment or expertise and are in high demand. - How much money do I need to start a service business?
Many service businesses can be started with as little as $500–$1,000 for basic supplies, marketing, and registration. - How can I stand out from competitors?
Offer personalized service, quick response times, and incentives like discounts for referrals. Building strong relationships with clients is key. - Do I need a business license to start a service business?
This depends on your location and the type of service. Check with your local government for specific requirements. - How do I find my first clients?
Leverage your personal network, join community groups, and promote your business on social media. Offering introductory discounts can also attract initial clients.
Starting a service business is one of the most flexible and rewarding ways to build a career. With so many options to choose from, there’s bound to be an idea that suits your skills and passions. Use this list as inspiration, take the first step, and enjoy the journey of entrepreneurship!