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The Daily Insight

What is a good service business to start?

Author

Andrew Mclaughlin

Published Mar 15, 2026

Service business ideas: The top 15

  • Personal fitness trainer.
  • Grocery shopping and delivery.
  • Makeup artist.
  • Doula and birth coaching services.
  • Private school application consultant.
  • Elder companion and care provider.
  • Pet sitting.
  • Handyman service.

How much does it cost to start a service business?

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, most microbusinesses cost around $3,000 to start, while most home-based franchises cost $2,000 to $5,000. While every type of business has its own financing needs, experts have some tips to help you figure out how much cash you’ll require.

How long does it take to start a service business?

In general, though, if you need a location and can find one that doesn’t need too much renovation, you can start a retail business or service business in less than six months. Needing a loan and hiring employees will add some time to the process. Buying an existing business may take a little less time, but not much.

How can I start a service business with no money?

How To Start A Business When You Have Literally No Money

  1. Ask yourself what you can do and get for free.
  2. Build up six months’ worth of savings for expenses.
  3. Ask your friends and family for extra funds.
  4. Apply for a small business loan when you need extra cash.
  5. Look to small business grants and local funding opportunities.

How much does a small business earn?

According to PayScale’s 2017 data, the average small business owner income is $73,000 per year. But, total earnings can range from $30,000 – $182,000 per year. PayScale’s average varies greatly from a slightly older median reported by the Small Business Administration (2015).

How long does it take a startup to make money?

While profits in the first year of business are always welcome, startups shouldn’t be expected to be profitable immediately, nor should anyone be relying on them to make a profit right away. Three to four years is the standard estimation for how long it takes a business to be profitable.

How do you classify startup costs?

The categories for your startup costs might include organizational costs, syndication costs, Section 197 intangible costs, tangible depreciation personal property costs, and Section 195 startup costs. Only specific business startup expenses can go into each category.

What should you not do when starting a business?

9 Things NOT to Do When Starting a Business

  1. Don’t Waste Too Much Time on Your Business Plan.
  2. Don’t Be Afraid to Pivot.
  3. Don’t Rush to Be First to Market.
  4. Don’t Ignore Paperwork.
  5. Don’t Ask Everyone You Know for Funding.
  6. Don’t Hurry the Hiring Process.

What services are in demand right now?

What Are the Most In-Demand Business Services?

  1. Accounting and tax advice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that demand for accounting is going to grow at a rate of 11 percent, faster than average, through 2024.
  2. Consulting.
  3. Legal.
  4. Marketing.
  5. Web and app design.
  6. Recruiting.
  7. Writing and translating.

What is the most profitable service business?

Some of the most profitable service businesses, according to Entrepreneur, include: Accounting services (payroll, bookkeeping, taxes) Real estate agents and brokers. Car rental.

How many service businesses can you start today?

With 105 ideas to choose from, you have no excuse not to get started today with your own service business. Once you’ve scrolled through our ideas and gotten a taste of what’s out there, pick from more than 55 industries within Entrepreneur’s Start Your Own series of books and guides.

Is it a good idea to start your own service business?

Please refer to our disclosure policy for further information. Starting your own service business is an excellent option if you don’t want to work a traditional job. Although most service businesses do work regular hours, when it’s your business, you get to set those hours. You decide when to work and how to operate your business. You’re the boss!

How to start a low cost service based business?

Low-cost startup: Developing and selling a physical product takes time, money and energy. Even if you run an e-commerce business, you still have to deal with packaging, shipping and returns. In a service-based business, your product is you.

When to work and how to operate your business?

You decide when to work and how to operate your business. You’re the boss! A service-based business is any business that offers services to others without selling tangible products. You are self-employed, which means you have to consider expenses like insurance and taxes. Maybe you like the idea of being self-employed but don’t know where to start.