107 service-based business ideas you can start in 2026 (with setup tips)

Turn skills into cash with 107 service based business ideas for 2026. From career coaching and paid ad management to lead generation, find lucrative paths to financial freedom.

Business coaching, financial consulting, test prep tutoring, video editing, and SEO/GEO consulting are some of the best service based businesses you can start in 2026.

Most small business ideas share one thing: they’re service-based. From mowing lawns and styling hair to cooking meals or building websites, services dominate the small business landscape.

In fact, over 70% of small businesses operate in the service sector. Why? Well, unlike product-based ventures, they don’t require inventory, manufacturing, or shipping.

That means lower startup costs, less complexity, and a faster path for first-time founders and solopreneurs.

Ready to dive in? We’ve rounded up 107 service business ideas—after first covering what a service business actually is.

What is a service business?

A service-based business is a business that provides services, not products. Instead of selling physical items, service based businesses sell skills, expertise, or time.

For example, a product-based hair business sells physical items like hair brushes and serums. A service-based hair business sells haircuts and styling, relying on the skills of the stylist.

“One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in the service industry is to invest in your own brand by connecting with customers on a personal level.”
- Fraser Singleton, service technician

Fraser, a coffee machine service technician with over a decade of experience, emphasizes the importance of personal branding in the service industry. He believes that building strong connections with customers—by offering personal service and making himself easy to contact—has been key to his growth.

107 service based business ideas

Coaching, consulting & strategy ideas

1. Career coaching: Average pay $75–$200 per hour

Help clients navigate job changes, promotions, or career pivots with personalized guidance and goal-setting. You can also upsell with resume services, interview prep, and salary negotiation role-playing.

What you need to start: 

• Coaching skills
• Career experience
• A way to book and meet clients (like a whop)

2. Life coaching: Average pay $75-$250 per hour

As a life coach you will work with clients to navigate life changes and work towards making difficult decisions, by prompting clients to consider what their values are and how they can live in them. You can offer life coaching services remotely or in-person.

What you need to start: 

• Life coach training
• A personal brand (website, socials) to convert leads
• A way to meet clients (in-person office or online space, like a whop)

3. Business coaching: Average pay $50-$300 per hour

Business coaching is similar to life coaching and career coaching, in that you work with clients to set goals and move towards them. But, as a business coach, you set goals for the business — not the person you're meeting with — by creating and working towards financial, growth, or brand awareness goals. This means that you need a high-level of business experience and the stats to prove it.

What you need to start:

• A history of success as a business owner
• Structured coaching framework to deliver consistent results
• A great online presence to find leads and convert customers

4. Financial consulting: Average pay $100-$350 an hour

Financial consultants help individuals or businesses make smarter money decisions. This can mean budgeting, saving, investing, or managing debt. You'll work with solopreneurs, startups, or high-income earners looking to grow wealth. You can also offer packages for financial planning, tax strategy, or retirement prep.

What you need to start:

• Financial certifications or a background in finance (CPA, CFP, or equivalent)
• Niche focus (e.g. personal finance, small business, crypto, etc.)
• A professional online profile and lead-gen funnel (like a whop)

5. Tax preparation: Average pay $100-$500+ per return

Tax filing can be confusing and time-consuming, which is why most people and businesses outsource their tax filing duties. Unlike financial coaching or consulting, this service-based business doesn't require much facetime. Simply meet with your client to discuss their taxes, then use the documentation they provide to to prepare and file their returns accurately and on time.

What you need to start:

• Tax prep training or certification (like IRS AFSP or CPA)
• Tax software and secure client document handling
• A system to schedule, invoice, and deliver results

6. Grant writing services: Average pay $40–$150+ per hour

Grant writing is an underrated side hustle that can become a great service business. Grant writers help nonprofits, researchers, startups, and community organizations secure funding with grant proposals. To succeed as a grant writer you need strong writing skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of how to match client goals with grantor requirements.

What you need to start:

• Strong writing and research skills
• Familiarity with the grant application process
• A way to find clients and deliver work remotely

7. Relationship coaching or romance consulting: Average pay $75–$250 per hour

Relationship coaches help singles or couples improve their romantic lives. As a relationship coach, when working with singles, you will help someone craft online dating profiles, build confidence, and develop communication skills. With couples, you provide a safe space to air out issues, discuss in a productive way, and find solutions. This can include coaching on emotional intelligence, attachment styles, and setting boundaries.

What you need to start:

• Coaching experience or training in relationships/psychology
• A niche focus (dating, long-term couples, breakups, etc.)
• A personal brand and booking system to attract and manage clients

8. Marketing strategy consulting: Average pay $100–$300 per hour

Marketing consultancy is in the same world as business coaching and consulting, but with a more niche focus. As a marketing consultant you will help businesses identify their audience, refine their messaging, and build strategies. You might specialize in content marketing, paid ads, email campaigns, social media growth, or go-to-market planning.

What you need to start:

• Proven marketing experience (freelance or in-house)
• Case studies or portfolio of results
• A client funnel and place to sell packages

9. Productivity consulting: Average pay $50–$200 per hour

This is another niche service-based business idea. Productivity consultants help individuals, teams, or businesses optimize their time, systems, and workflows. You'll help solopreneurs build better routines or helping companies implement tools like Notion, Slack, or ClickUp. Plus, you can offer audits, 1:1 coaching, or custom productivity systems as digital downloads.

What you need to start:

• Deep knowledge of productivity frameworks or tools (e.g. GTD, time-blocking)
• A clear coaching or implementation process
• A platform to sell services or templates (like Whop)

10. Sales coaching: Average pay $75–$250 per hour

Every business wants more sales, but most don't know how or where to start. That's where this service business comes in. Sales coaches help entrepreneurs, reps, or teams close more deals through mindset shifts, objection handling, funnel optimization, and improved communication. You might work with startups, course creators, or service pros looking to boost conversions.

What you need to start:

• Proven track record in sales or high-ticket closing
• Coaching structure (calls, scripts, role-play, CRM setup)
• A landing page or sales hub to attract and onboard clients

11. Executive coaching: Average pay $150–$500 per hour

Executive coaches work with CEOs, founders, and senior leaders to improve leadership skills, decision-making, communication, and team management. This is a high-ticket service that focuses on both personal growth and business outcomes — ideal if you're a consultant with corporate or C-suite experience.

What you need to start:

• Leadership experience or executive coaching certification
• Structured coaching methodology
• High-trust personal brand and booking platform (like a whop)

12. Creative business consulting: Average pay $75–$250 per hour

If you're a creative, then this service-based business idea is perfect for you. As a creative business consultant you help designers, photographers, writers, and content creators turn their talents into profitable businesses. This may look like guiding them on pricing, client acquisition, branding, and scaling.

What you need to start:

• Experience running a successful creative business
• Clear frameworks for marketing, monetization, and client ops
• A content-driven lead funnel and offer hub

13. Nonprofit consulting: Average pay $75–$200 per hour

Nonprofit consultants help mission-driven orgs grow through fundraising strategy, board development, operations, and grant sourcing. If you’ve worked in or with nonprofits, this is a high-impact service space with consistent demand.

What you need to start:

• Nonprofit sector experience or credentials
• Service menu (e.g. grant strategy, donor development)
• A clear sales page or intake process

14. ADHD or neurodivergent productivity coaching: Average pay $75–$200 per hour

ADHD coaching is a niche that is continuing to grow and has steady demand. ADHD coaches focus on helping ADHD and neurodivergent clients build custom workflows, routines, and accountability systems that work with their brains, not against them. Great for coaches with lived experience or psychology backgrounds.

What you need to start:

• Understanding of neurodiversity (personal or certified)
• Flexible coaching frameworks tailored to individual needs
• Booking platform and accessibility-friendly delivery system

Home & personal service based businesses

15. Furniture assembly: $50-$150 per piece

If you're handy with a hammer and screwdriver, you can make money by assembling furniture. With many major retailers selling flat-pack furniture packs, buyers may need someone to help assemble their home goods. This is a simple service-based side hustle for anyone who knows how to use basic tools.

What you need to start:

• A full toolbox
• A set of spare parts (incase any get broken during assembly)
• Local awareness (job posting boards, community groups, flyers) and a way to take payments

16. Mobile car detailing: $60-$125 per hour

Car washing is a great service-based business idea, but car detailing takes it a step further. A car detailer goes beyond cleaning the car inside and out by protecting and restoring the vehicle. This means washing, waxing polishing, vacuuming, steam cleaning, and repairing (where possible) various parts of the car.

What you need to start:

• A set of tools and materials to wash and detail cars (cleaning solutions, sponges, cloths, vacuum cleaners)
• A great social presence to attract new clients
• A booking and payments platform

17. Pressure washing: $50–$100 per hour

Pressure washing is another underrated business idea. Homeowners and renters alike need their driveways, decks, and buildings cleaned, but not everyone wants to spend the hundreds of dollars on a pressure washer (and then spend the effort actually cleaning). Instead, they outsource the work

As a pressure washer you will use high-pressure water jets to remove grime, mold, and dirt that builds up over time. This is great for residential or commercial clients who need your services multiple times a year.

What you need to start:

• A commercial-grade pressure washer and safety gear
• Transportation to travel between jobs
• A business license and basic insurance

18. Gutter cleaning: $70–$200 per job

Gutter cleaning is not glamorous, but it does pay. This seasonal service involves removing leaves and debris from roof gutters to prevent water damage. Many people don't clean their gutters themselves as they don't have the equipment, skills, or physical ability. So as a business idea, it’s easy to start and in demand — especially in the fall.

What you need to start:

• A sturdy ladder and gutter cleaning tools
• Safety equipment (harness, gloves)
• Local advertising and door-to-door flyers

19. Appliance repair: $50–$150 per hour

Fixing broken appliances like washers, dryers, fridges, and stoves is always in demand. Appliance repair technicians have a huge range of clients, including commercial businesses, landlords, and homeowners. If you have technical skills or can learn quickly, this can become a steady income stream.

What you need to start:

• Knowledge of electronics and/or local certifications
• Repair tools and diagnostic kits
• A website with social proof, booking system, and payment processing

20. Pest control services: $75–$200 per visit

Pest control is another unglamorous business idea with big earning potential. Pest control businesses eliminate insects, rodents, and other nuisances from homes and businesses. Here's what one Redditor had to say about pest control:

I’m in my late 30s and I’ve been doing pest control for over 10 years now. I’ve been working since I was 14 (small lawn mowing business for a few people) and got my first paycheck job at 17/18. Worked retail jobs then went into cooking. Loved cooking but the pay was shit. Switched to pest control and went from making $1000 every two weeks to $1800 and now much more.

I started my own company back in 2020 and I wish I could have traded my time working retail for doing pest control.

With a pest control business you can take one-off jobs for emergency pest situations and recurring bookings for regular maintenance (think hotels, rental properties, businesses).

What you need to start:

• Pest control certification and licenses
• Sprayers, chemicals, traps, and safety equipment (invest in quality here)
• Local marketing, referrals, and a booking portal

21. Home security installation: $100–$300 per job

The home security market is growing, with more than 13 million US households installing new home alarm systems in 2025. You can take advantage of this market by offering home security installation services. Your role will involve installing security cameras, smart locks, and alarm systems. While you don't have to provide the security system itself, you can partner with a security brand to earn affiliate income on top.

What you need to start:

• Technical knowledge of smart home devices
• Tools for drilling, wiring, and mounting equipment
• A partnership with a security brand (optional)

22. Handyman services: $50–$100 per hour

Woodshop and home economics classes are rare to find in schools these days, meaning that there is a whole generation of homeowners who lack the skills needed to take on small tasks. If you're handy with a toolkit, you can offer your services for a fee. Handymen tackle a wide range of tasks like repairs, installations, and light renovations.

What you need to start:

• A well-stocked toolkit
• General liability insurance
• Online booking or handyman app profile

23. Window cleaning: $75–$200 per job

If you're not afraid of heights then window cleaning is a great service business idea for you. Residential and commercial window washing is a low-barrier business with steady clients — windows get dirty regularly, meaning you will always have repeat business. Plus, as you take on more clients, this is an easy business to scale.

What you need to start:

• Squeegees, poles, buckets, and eco-friendly cleaner
• Safety harnesses or ladders for higher jobs
• Local client outreach and social proof on your website

24.Packing services: $100–$200 per hour (for 2 people)

Moving is an incredibly stressful experience. You can take away some of that stress by offering packing services to those who need it. This service business involves helping people move homes, pack up belongings, or both. It’s physically demanding but always needed.

What you need to start:

• Able-bodied enough to pack items
• Packing supplies like boxes and bubble wrap
• Insurance and a business license

25. Laundry services: $1–$2 per pound

There are over a million buildings in New York — but only 10% of residential buildings have a washer and dryer. That makes offering laundry services a lucrative business for anyone with their own setup or access to a laundromat. A wash-and-fold business caters to busy customers who want their laundry done fast, and you can even offer ironing, pickup, and delivery for extra income.

What you need to start:

• A washer/dryer setup or access to laundromats
• Detergents, hangers, and bags
• Local delivery option or drop-off point

26. Cleaning solar panels: $100–$250 per job

In 2024 over 4.2 million American homes had solar panels, with an average of 25-30 solar panels per rooftop. That's a huge 105-126 million solar panels that need cleaning to maintain efficiency. This is a niche service that eco-friendly and pays well, with minimal competition.

When it comes to finding clients, this is what one Redditor has to say:

2 (clients) called me from Google My Business. GMB is a clear winner and a MUST DO for service businesses, IMO. It's free. 1 job came from in-person networking. Went to an event (Creative Mornings), told someone I was starting this biz, they said they had panels, so I sold them right then and there. Booked them in my CRM on my phone. 4th job came from door hangers. Need to distribute more of those.

What you need to start:

• Long-reach cleaning tools and distilled water
• Safety gear and roof access equipment
• Targeted outreach to solar panel owners

27. Junk removal: $100–$600 per job

Make money with junk. As a junk removalist you will be hauling away unwanted furniture, appliances, or trash. This is actually a scalable and in-demand business, especially for anyone moving home, selling a property, or cleaning up after a big event. You can charge by truckload or item.

What you need to start:

• A truck or trailer and basic loading tools
• Disposal site access and fees
• Social proof (Google reviews, before/after photos)

28. Pool cleaning: $75–$150 per visit

Another service business that is niche but always in demand is pool cleaning. Pools need to be cleaned on a weekly or monthly basis, making this a reliable source of income. It includes skimming, vacuuming, and chemical balancing.

What you need to start:

• Pool net, vacuum, and water testing kits
• Knowledge of pool chemistry
• A website or local page with a way to take bookings

29. Rideshare driver: $15–$40 per hour

This personal service idea is less hands-on, and you (hopefully) won't be getting your hands dirty. Driving for Uber, Lyft, or similar services offers flexible income. It's easy to start and great for part-time or weekend work.

What you need to start:

• A clean car and valid license
• Ride share app account and insurance
• Great customer service

30. House painting: $200–$800 per room

This home service business requires a lot of skill but makes a lot of profit. Most people think they can DIY their painting job, then quickly realize that they don't have the skills (or patience) required to do a good job. So, they turn to painters. With minimal materials and high hourly rates, it's great for solo workers or small teams.

Here's one Redditor's advice for pricing up your paint jobs:

I started off as an hourly rate and kept tedious notes about how long something took and what all I did in that time. After I felt like I had enough ‘data’, I clumped projects together based on area (doors, ‘standard’ sized room walls only, bathroom ceilings etc) then got an estimated time range for each. Then I started playing with quoting jobs based on this info. 

What you need to start:

• Paint, rollers, ladders, and prep supplies
• Attention to detail and color knowledge
• A portfolio of before/after photos

31. Dry cleaning: $3–$12 per garment

Dry cleaning is less in demand than everyday laundry, but is still a profitable service based business idea. You can open a storefront or offer a mobile service if you have your own dry cleaning equipment. Add delivery or eco-friendly services to stand out.

What you need to start:

• Professional cleaning machines or a cleaning partner
• Delivery system (optional but profitable)
• Reliable POS and customer tracking

32. Moving company: $200–$2,000+ per move

Running a full-fledged moving company requires more planning than simply packing and loading boxes, but it can generate high returns with repeat business and referrals.

What you need to start:

• A fleet of moving trucks and trained staff
• Insurance, licenses, and service contracts
• Marketing via Google and real estate agents

Lifestyle & personal care business examples

33. Nail technician (mobile or in-home): $150–$1500 per session

If you have TikTok or Instagram then you likely have come across videos of extravagant nail sets with high prices. While you won't only be creating $1000+ plus nails, you can make consistent income with a whole range of nail services. Offering manicures and pedicures from home or as a mobile nail tech is a flexible, creative business.

What you need to start:

• Nail tools, UV lamp, and sanitation supplies
• A valid nail tech certification (varies by state)
• Online booking and strong Instagram and TikTok presence

34. Massage therapy: $70–$500 per hour

This business idea is for anyone who is good with their hands. Mobile massage therapy is perfect for clients who want relaxation or pain relief in the comfort of their own home. It has high repeat potential and strong word-of-mouth value.

What you need to start:

• A massage table, oils, and clean linens
• Massage therapy license or certification
• Liability insurance and online scheduling system

35. Reiki or energy healing: $60–$120 per session

Reiki is one of the most profitable services you can offer. Other than a certification and a treatment space, you don't need any other equipment. And, you can even offer reiki remotely, meaning all you need is a way to video chat with your client. As a Reiki provider you focus on stress reduction and energy balancing by either lightly placing your hand on the client, or hovering your hand just above the client.

What you need to start:

• Reiki certification (Levels 1–3 or Master)
• Comfortable treatment space, portable setup, or video conferencing software
• Testimonials and niche marketing (wellness blogs, local groups)

36. Teeth whitening: $300–$1000 per session

Almost everyone wants a winning smile, so offering cosmetic teeth whitening as a mobile or in-home service can be highly profitable. This service is particularly popular for bridal parties, influencers, and professionals.

What you need to start:

• LED whitening kits and gel trays (FDA-compliant)
• Training or certification (required in some states)
• Social proof and before/after photos

37. Spray tanning: $40–$75 per session

Help people keep that summer glow all year round. Mobile spray tanning is perfect for clients prepping for events or photoshoots. With low startup costs, it’s a great part-time or full-time business, with the opportunity for plenty of repeat bookings.

What you need to start:

• Spray tan machine, tent, and solutions
• Training or certification for proper application
• Mobile booking system and strong local marketing

38. Mobile barber services: $40–$100 per haircut

Bringing barber services to the client is convenient and ideal for those who are homebound or too busy to go out. This is a great business for building loyal clientele and getting repeat customers. You can even go into busy offices and offer haircuts to team members between meetings.

What you need to start:

• Clippers, scissors, capes, and sanitation tools
• Barber license and portable workstation
• A client app profile or personal website

39. Personal styling: $75–$1000 per session

From closet cleanouts to outfit planning, a personal stylist helps people look and feel their best. This service works virtually or in person, and there is a whole range of services you can offer. On the lower end of the scale, offer a one-off styling service for an event at low cost. On the higher end, offer a package with a full wardrobe audit, style assessment, shopping guidance and even downloadable personalized style guides.

What you need to start:

• Styling expertise or fashion training
• Lookbooks, mood boards, and clothing resources
• A polished personal brand on social and web

40. Kitchen organization: $200–$500 per project

Helping clients declutter and optimize their kitchen space is both a satisfying and scalable business. You can specialize in pantries, drawers, and storage systems. Once a customer is happy with your work, they will refer you to others and likely book your service once a year after big occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Vicky Silverthorn, professional organizer of over 15 years, speaks on why kitchen organization is such a problem for so many people:

"People are obsessed with finding the right jars and containers, but that’s not the real issue. They see the immaculate pictures on Instagram and they try to recreate it at home. But it just isn’t practical and it can create more stress and more clutter."

What you need to start:

• Bins, labels, and organization tools
• A clean, aesthetic brand and before/after gallery
• Word-of-mouth referrals and marketing on local community pages

41. Errand running / grocery shopping: $25–$50 per hour

Running errands or grocery shopping for busy professionals, seniors, or new parents is a simple but impactful service. You can charge hourly or by task, and offer regular time slots for people who need errands run on a weekly basis.

What you need to start:

• Reliable transportation and a smartphone
• A clear service menu and delivery radius
• Local advertising and online presence

42. Tech help for seniors: $30–$75 per hour

College kids are making a significant amount of money showing the older generation how to use technology — specifically AI and social media. You don't need to be an expert— you just need to be a few steps ahead.

Offering patient, in-home tech support for seniors (smartphones, email, Wi-Fi, etc.) can become a fulfilling niche business. You don't need to be a technical wizard— you just need to understand the basics and have good personal skills.

What you need to start:

• Solid understanding of basic tech and troubleshooting
• Clear communication skills and a patient demeanor
• Local outreach and senior center connections

43. Makeup: $75–$800 per session

This is a service business idea for makeup lovers, creatives, and artists. Makeup artists can work weddings, events, or offer mobile services for busy clients. You can specialize in glam, natural, or even editorial looks. Your highest-paid services will always be weddings, as you can charge for a makeup trial, a specialized bridal look, and makeup for members of the bridal party.

Bridal makeup, editorial work, and celebrity clients can bring in big money, while day-to-day clients might be less lucrative. Many artists also expand their services to include hairstyling, special effects, or even online content creation to diversify their income. -Redditor

What you need to start:

• A full makeup kit and hygiene protocol
• Makeup certification (optional but recommended)
• Portfolio and strong presence on Instagram and TikTok

44. Childminding: $15–$40 per hour

Access to childcare is incredibly difficult in the US. Parents pay an average of $1000 per month on childcare, and it's one of their largest recurring expenses. Not only that, but there is a shortage of childcare workers. So, providing safe, trustworthy child care in-home or at clients’ homes is always in demand. You can offer part-time, full-time, or backup services.

What you need to start:

• Background check and CPR/first aid training
• Insurance and local childcare licenses (if required)
• Strong references and flexible availability

45. Mattress cleaning: $80–$200 per job

Mattresses harbor dust, allergens, and bacteria. This high-margin niche service involves steam or UV cleaning to refresh sleep surfaces. However, the average person likely doesn't know that they need their mattress cleaned — so use socials to show off before and after images of how dirty mattresses can real get.

What you need to start:

• Specialized cleaning equipment and extraction tools
• Safe cleaning agents and knowledge of mattress types
• SEO-optimized local service page or Google listing

46. Meal preparation: $100–$300 per client per week

Fancy yourself a good cook? Home meal prep services help busy individuals and families eat well without the stress. This is a business model with a lot of potential, as it can be personalized based on dietary needs. Reach a whole range of clients by offering up a high-protein menu, gluten-free plan, dairy-free menu, vegan option, vegetarian option, and paleo meal prep.

What you need to start:

• Cooking experience and food-safe certifications
• Containers, labels, and menu planning tools
• A batch cooking system

47. Doula: $500–$2,000 per birth package

Doulas support expecting parents with emotional and physical guidance before, during, and after birth. It’s a deeply meaningful, high-trust role — but it does mean that you will need to be on call for births. If you can't be present at the birth, then you can always create a post-birth doula service to guide the parent with feeding, birth recovery, and sleeping.

What you need to start:

• Certified doula training
• Birth support kit and flexible availability
• Strong client testimonials and OB/midwife referrals

48. DJ: $300–$1,500 per event

If you love music and have the gear, DJing events is a fun and profitable business — from weddings and birthdays to corporate events. Make sure that you have a strong online presence and personal brand to stand out against the competition.

What you need to start:

• Turntables, controller, mixer, and speakers
• A curated music library and MC skills
• Website with reviews, photos, and sample mixes

49. Wedding planning: $2,000–$10,000 per event

Weddings require a ridiculous amount of planning and coordination — so much that couples will pay for third-party help. Full-service wedding planners help couples organize every detail of their big day. You can also offer day-of coordination or vendor sourcing.

What you need to start:

• Event planning skills and vendor relationships
• Planning software and clear packages
• A polished website and Instagram portfolio

Education & training services

50. College admissions coaching: Average pay $100–$300 per hour

Help high school students navigate the complicated world of college admissions, from essay writing to interview prep and application strategy. If you've worked in admissions, or have experience in getting into top schools, you can charge an even higher rate.

What you need to start:

• Firsthand experience or success stories
• Packages for essay help, test prep, and full application support
• A strong results-based portfolio

51. Study skills coaching: Average pay $50–$150 per hour

As a study skills coach, you will help students develop better study habits, time management techniques, and retention strategies. This is ideal for educators, academic counselors, or high-performing students — and it's especially sought after by medical and legal students.

What you need to start:

• A structured framework or curriculum
• Clear student outcomes (grades, focus, organization)
• A scheduling tool and feedback loop

52. Test prep (e.g., SAT, GRE, MCAT): Average pay $50–$200 per hour

Tests at any age are stressful, and parents and students will pay good money to anyone who can help them prepare. So, specialized test prep tutors are always in demand. Whether you're helping teens ace the SAT or med students prepare for the MCAT, test prep is a lucrative niche.

What you need to start:

• High scores or test-specific credentials
• Proven curriculum and practice resources
• Testimonials and social proof

53. Public speaking coaching: Average pay $75–$150 per hour

75% of the population has a fear of public speaking. If you're in the other 25% and love talking in front of a crowd, then you can coach professionals, students, or entrepreneurs to speak with confidence. You will coach people on stage presence, pitch delivery, and articulation.

What you need to start:

• Experience with public speaking or performance
• Coaching modules for confidence, structure, and delivery
• Recording tools and virtual delivery platform (like a whop)

54. Corporate training workshops: $300–$5,000+ per engagement

If you have a background in HR, leadership, learning and development, or DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion), then corporate training is a high-ticket service-based business you can start right away. Companies often bring in external facilitators to lead workshops on communication, team building, emotional intelligence, leadership, productivity, and more.

What you need to start:

• Training packages or curriculum tailored to corporate teams
• Workshop facilitation experience
• B2B sales funnel and follow-up service structure

55. Language tutoring: $30–$100 per hour

Teach English or other languages to students online or in-person. Perfect for bilinguals, ESL teachers, or anyone with strong language proficiency. You don't need to know another language to teach English, but you do need a lot of patience and structured lessons. Plus, if you use a virtual platform, you can make money online as a tutor.

What you need to start:

• Flexible lesson plans and tools like Zoom or Duolingo for Schools
• A student booking system
• Patience and understanding

56. Homeschool consulting: $50–$150 per hour

Around 3.4% of households in the US homeschool their children. However, many don't know where to start. There is a business opportunity there to support families in creating or improving home-based education systems. This is ideal for teachers, curriculum experts, or experienced homeschoolers.

What you need to start:

• Understanding of state requirements and educational standards
• Package options for curriculum planning and assessment help
• Intake form and consulting contract

57. Arts & crafts workshops for kids: $30–$80 per student

This service business idea is for anyone who is creative and crafty. Offer creative workshops in painting, pottery, jewelry making, etc., either virtually or in person. Great for artists, former teachers, or anyone who has mastered a hobby.

What you need to start:

• Age-appropriate project ideas and safety protocols
• Supplies list and pricing structure
• Enrolment system (single class or series)

58. Music lessons: $30–$100 per session

Teach instruments, vocals, or music theory to kids and adults. This business idea works great online or locally, and you can teach at any skill level.

What you need to start:

• Proficiency in your instrument(s)
• Lesson plans or sheet music guides
• A studio setup or virtual lesson software

59. Resume writing: $100–$500+ per resume

Write strategic, ATS-friendly resumes that help clients land interviews. This is a service business idea that is currently in high demand, and great for writers or career coaches.

Alex is the creator of Final Draft Resumes, a resume writing service. Alex hosted an AMA on Reddit, and gave this advice about common mistakes in resumes:

Not tailoring your resume enough

Tailoring too much to the point where it looks artificial

Not providing enough specifics, and often in the work experience section, not providing any context (ie., company type, size, industry, products/services etc.)

Using too much jargon and assuming your audience will just understand

As a resume writer you can help clients avoid these mistakes and land their dream role.

What you need to start:

• Examples of before/after resumes
• Intake questionnaire and client goals
• Delivery system for drafts and revisions

Online & digital services

60. SEO consulting: Average pay $75–$200 per hour

Marketing takes many forms— paid meta ads, physical activations, influencer marketing, and SEO. SEO consultants help businesses rank on search engines. If you’ve done content strategy, on-page SEO, or audits, this is a high-demand niche for a lot of businesses, large and small.

“SEO is still great to get into, with the caveat that things have changed a lot in the last few years. You really do need to understand LLMs and AI and how that factors into how people are searching these days.”
- Colin, Head of SEO at Whop

Colin believes SEO is still a strong business opportunity—especially if you understand how AI and large language models (LLMs) are reshaping search.

What you need to start:

• SEO audit tools (Ahrefs, SEMrush, Screaming Frog)
• Service tiers (audits, optimization, content plans)
• Client results and keyword wins

61. Copywriting: $250–$1500+ per piece

Have a way with words? Write persuasive copy for websites, emails, ads, and funnels. This business idea is perfect for writers with a marketing mindset, and has very low overheads. All you need is a place to work from and a decent computer.

Freelance writer Lizzie Davey spoke to Metro UK about making money with writing. Here's what she had to say:

My advice for people starting now is to have a specific skill that you’re good at, that people want and need. For me, that’s marketing writing. But there are many writers out there who are trying to make it. And obviously AI has also become a new competitor, but clients still want the human side of content.

What you need to start:

• Portfolio with high-converting samples
• Clear niches (e.g., ecom, SaaS, coaches)
• A discovery process to nail tone and goals

62. Virtual assistance: $25–$125 per hour

I get to help people, I get to work my own hours, and I get to work from home.
- Matthieu Ratrimoson, virtual assistant

This one is for the highly-organized among us. As a virtual assistant you offer admin, inbox, calendar, and customer service support for entrepreneurs. This is highly flexible and scalable, and you can work with multiple clients at once.

What you need to start:

• Task menu and availability calendar
• Communication tool access (Slack, Gmail, Asana)
• Time tracking and invoicing system

63. Community management (Discord, Facebook Groups, Whop): $30–$100/hr or monthly retainer

Online communities are a growing industry as they are an excellent way for creators, brands, and public figures to connect with audiences. But, they require a lot of work and attention. As a community manager, you can help run thriving online communities. This includes includes moderating, content scheduling, and growth tactics.

What you need to start:

• Experience growing or managing a community
• Moderation guidelines and engagement strategy
• KPI tracking and monthly reporting

64. Online course creation setup: $200–$2,500+ per project

Online courses is a a rapidly growing industry, with the online learning market expected to exceed 1.1 billion consumers by 2029. Every creator, influencer, and entrepreneur wants an online courses, but not everyone knows how to create one. Create a service business that supports creators in structuring, filming, and launching online courses.

What you need to start:

• Knowledge of platforms (Whop, Teachable, Kajabi)
• Offer tiers (tech setup, strategy, launch support)
• Portfolio or course demos

65. Podcast production: $50–$150 per episode

Offer editing, mixing, and episode publishing services for podcasters. You don’t need to be on mic — just behind the scenes. This is a business idea that is very niche, but much needed in the $27 billion dollar podcasting industry.

What you need to start:

• Audio software (Descript, Audacity, Adobe Audition)
• Offer tiers (editing only vs. full post-production)
• Client onboarding checklist and episode workflow

66. Video editing: $100–$1000+ per project

Edit YouTube videos, shorts, reels, and promos. Video editing is one of the most in-demand freelance services, and with the help of AI and video editing tools, the barrier to entry is getting lower.

What you need to start:

• Editing software (Premiere Pro, CapCut, Final Cut)
• Reel or demo portfolio
• Clear revision process

67. Paid ad management (Meta, Google): $250–$2,500+/month

Help other businesses by managing PPC campaigns for brands and creators. This is great for marketers with analytics or agency experience, but by creating your own business in ad management, you get to decide who you work with and in what capacity.

What you need to start:

• Ad platform experience (Meta Blueprint, Google Ads)
• Campaign reporting tools
• Results-based case studies

68. Email marketing services: $200–$2,000/month

Another online business idea for writers. Build and manage email flows for ecommerce, SaaS, or creators. This business idea includes copywriting, automation, and A/B testing (and experience with different email platforms).

What you need to start:

• Platform skills (Klaviyo, ConvertKit, beehiiv)
• Email funnel templates and swipe files
• Conversion-focused results portfolio

69. Clipping: $30–$2500 per clip

If you're looking to make money online, Content Rewards is one of the easiest side hustles to start with 0 experience. There are people making 10, 20, even 30 thousand dollars a month by simply making copy-paste clips or UGC.
- Dylan Lundgren, Whop

Clip long-form videos into short-form vertical content for TikTok, Reels, and Shorts. This is a growing market, with many content creators and brands outsourcing clip creation to maximize their output and get more eyes on their profiles.

What you need to start:

• Editing tool (CapCut, Riverside, Descript)
• Strong sense of hook and retention
• Simple delivery system (like Whop content rewawrds)

70. Web design: $500–$5,000+ per project

One of the oldest digital service based businesses is web design. With this, you design and build websites for small businesses, freelancers, or creators. Ideal for graphic designers or devs, and it's easier than ever now with no-code website builders.

What you need to start:

• Platform experience (Webflow, WordPress, Framer)
• Site templates and pricing packages
• Visual portfolio

71. Voiceover: $50–$500 per gig

Voice acting is one of the most overlooked but powerful side hustles out there, and you can get started right from home. You don't even need a full studio setup for this — all you need is a quiet room, a decent USB microphone, and free recording software.

Offer voiceovers for commercials, audiobooks, explainer videos, and YouTube. A creative side hustle business for people with acting or vocal talent.

What you need to start:

• Professional mic and quiet space
• Demo reel with different tones and styles
• Booking platform (Fiverr, Voices.com, direct site)

72. Social media bio optimization: $50–$150 per audit

First impressions are everything, especially when it comes to standing out on saturated social platforms. Start a service business where you turn vague bios into conversion-friendly intros across Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, or LinkedIn. Great for brand strategists or marketers.

What you need to start:

• Clear brand positioning framework
• Before/after portfolio examples
• Fast turnaround system

Animal & outdoor business ideas

75. Dog walking: $15–$40 per dog per walk

A classic service business with low overhead and steady demand, especially in urban areas. This service business idea is great for people who love pets and want flexible income. You can walk up to 6 dogs at once, so walk 4 times a day to really maximize your revenue.

What you need to start:

• Leash safety and canine handling skills
• Local area presence
• Stamina to keep up with many dogs at once

76. Dog training: $50–$200 per session

Turn your love for dogs into a high-ticket service helping owners correct behavior, build obedience, or prep for shows. This is especially popular with new puppy owners, and you can offer packages for dog training and dog walking.

What you need to start:

• Certification (CPDT-KA or similar) or proven experience
• Before/after training case studies
• Packages (single session, 5-week course, etc.)

77. Lawn mowing: $30–$300 per yard

Now, this business idea is one that has always been in demand. Offer simple mowing and edging services to homeowners and rental properties. Quick turnaround jobs can stack fast in the spring/summer seasons, and you can market services to clean up yards before big holiday celebrations.

What you need to start:

• Mower and trimmer (own or rented)
• Route-based scheduling system
• Basic liability coverage

78. Mobile vet tech services: $100–$500 per visit

This business idea isn't for everyone — only for licensed vet techs looking to go independent. Offer in-home checkups, vaccinations, and minor procedures without the clinic overhead. With great marketing and word-of-mouth, this can easily become a very lucrative business idea, as many pet owners would much rather a vet come to them than take their animal on a car journey.

What you need to start:

• Certification and license
• On-call kit with mobile setup
• Local advertising to pet owners and strong social proof

79. Pet waste removal: $15–$75 per clean

Yes, you can get paid to pick up poop. It isn't glamorous, but it does pay. Build a recurring service cleaning up yards weekly for busy pet owners and landlords who need a yard overhaul .

What you need to start:

• Gloves, scooper, sealed disposal setup
• Subscription pricing model
• Clear service boundaries (yard size, frequency)

80. Urban garden setup: $100–$1,000+ per project

Around 38% of renters in the US live in apartments, and this creates a great business opportunity for anyone with a green thumb. Design and install garden beds, vertical planters, or balcony grow systems. Popular with sustainability-minded city dwellers.

What you need to start:

• Gardening knowledge and layout design skills
• Strong social media presence
• Tools and materials sourcing plan

81. Holiday decoration services: $200–$2,000 per job

Handy with a ladder and basic tools? Install and remove seasonal decorations for homes or storefronts — Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s, etc. This is an easy business to scale— decorate one house in the neighborhood and you've got a huge testimonial that everyone can see.

What you need to start:

• Ladders, safety gear, and storage bins
• Seasonal packages and design styles
• Strong marketing before each holiday, but once you have decorated one building, your business will snowball

82. Fence or deck repair: $150–$1,500 per job

Specialize in small repairs, staining, or partial rebuilds. Homeowners want fast fixes without hiring a full contractor, and landlords especially don't want to have to replace an entire fence every time there is a small issue. Use strong marketing before windy or wet seasons so that you're at the forefront of everyones mind after those storms hit.

What you need to start:

• Basic carpentry tools and repair experience
• Pricing by material or square footage
• Local permit knowledge (if required)

83. Firewood delivery service: $50–$200 per load

Chop, stack, and deliver firewood to homeowners during cold months. Bonus if you offer stacking or recurring winter bundles. Simple, but needed during those cold months.

What you need to start:

• Source for seasoned wood or chopping setup
• Pickup truck or trailer
• Delivery radius and pricing tiers

84. Snow shoveling: $25–$160 per visit

Now, this is an extremely seasonal business that depends on the weather. But, if you add this on as a service to your yard-cleaning, holiday-decorating, and general handyman business, then it can be a great earner. Snow shoveling is a fast-response winter hustle that can earn big during storms. Offer driveway, sidewalk, or business clearance services.

What you need to start:

• Shovel or snow blower
• Per-storm and seasonal pricing options
• Early morning readiness

85. Hive maintenance: $100–$500 per service

Can you stay calm around bees? If yes, offer beehive inspection, cleaning, and seasonal prep for hobbyist beekeepers or farms. Niche, but growing in popularity.

What you need to start:

• Beekeeping knowledge and safety suit
• Hive tool kit and smoker
• Recurring service contracts

86. Chicken coop setup: $200–$2,000 per build

With egg prices continuing to rise there is a growing trend of backyard chicken coops. In fact, research conducted by Australia-based real estate company Eden Emerald Buyers Agent found that searches for “easy DIY chicken coop plans” on Pinterest skyrocketed by 212% in the U.S. within the first three months of 2025. If you have handyman skills then you can cash in on this trend. Design, build, and install backyard chicken coops for homesteaders or hobbyists.

What you need to start:

• Carpentry and layout skills
• Blueprints or prefab kit options
• Scheduling app or booking system

87. Outdoor furniture assembly: $50–$500 per set

Help homeowners build patio sets, grills, fire pits, or play structures. This is a fast and low-effort service with year-round demand— home owners want to build grills and shade in summer, and fire pits in winter.

What you need to start:

• Basic tools (drill, level, wrench)
• Sample photos or client testimonials
• Booking form with item details

88. Wildlife removal: $150–$600 per job

Niche? Yes. Lucrative? Definitely. Help homeowners safely trap and remove raccoons, squirrels, or other critters from attics, sheds, or crawl spaces. Anyone scared of small animals and creepy crawlies is more than willing to pay for someone to solve the problem for them.

This does require a lot of local marketing— when someone sees a rat or racoon, you want them to think of your business. So use fridge magnets, bookmarks, calendars — anything that puts your phone number in an easy-to-find spot.

What you need to start:

• Licensing (varies by state) and humane traps
• Animal handling knowledge
• Emergency response availability

B2B service business ideas

89. Cold email outreach: $200-$1000 per month per client

Small businesses and solopreneurs often lack the time (and writing chops) to run outbound campaigns. Offer a done-for-you cold outreach service—writing, sending, and tracking emails to generate qualified leads. Focus on niches like SaaS, coaching, or local services.

What you need to start:

• Copywriting skills and email deliverability tools (like Instantly or Smartlead)
• Lead list builder or scraping tool
• Cold email sequences + A/B test templates

90. CRM setup: $250-$800 per build

Customer relationship management is critical, but many businesses don’t know where to start. Help them choose and implement the right CRM system (like HubSpot, Pipedrive, or Notion) based on their workflows and sales goals.

What you need to start:

• Working knowledge of top CRM platforms
• Process mapping tools (like Miro)
• Client intake form for customization

91. Lead generation: $100-$500 per batch

If you know how to find and qualify decision-makers, you can sell that skill to businesses and solopreneurs. Offer B2B or (B2C) lead lists tailored to specific industries, pain points, or geographies. Businesses pay for these leads as it takes the guess work out of sales, saving a ton of time.

What you need to start:

• LinkedIn Sales Navigator or lead scraping tools
• ICP (ideal customer profile) templates
• Deliverable format (CSV, Google Sheets)

92. Bookkeeping: $200-$2000 per month, per client

From freelancers to store owners, business owners need clean books. But most dread doing them, letting invoices and bills build up until it becomes unmanageable. Offer monthly reconciliation, categorization, and report prep.

What you need to start:

• QuickBooks or Xero certification
• Chart of accounts template
• Engagement letter + NDA template

93. Data entry and cleanup: $15-$50 per hour

Like bookkeeping, data can often become messy and overwhelming, with spreadsheets, CRMs, inventory lists and more. Offer hourly or project-based services to format, standardize, and validate datasets.

What you need to start:

• Spreadsheet skills
• Data validation tools
• Clear SOPs for common use cases

94. Document translation: $0.08–$0.25 per word

I myself am fluent in three languages, and that has provided me with countless side hustle opportunities.
- Karina Egle, Whop

Bilingual? Offer fast and accurate translation of legal, marketing, or technical documents. If you speak more than one language then this is a simple and easy service-based business idea that you can start today.

What you need to start:

• Language fluency
• CAT tools (e.g., SDL Trados, MemoQ)
• NDA + revision policy

95. SOP (standard operating procedure) writing: $150–$1000 per document

Every business needs standard operating procedures, but few have the time to write them. Offer a service to complete this task for business owners, so they can focus on making money instead. Interview team members, document workflows, and package repeatable processes.

What you need to start:

• Interview and documentation skills
• SOP template structure (intro, steps, who’s responsible)
• Document formatting (Google Docs, Notion, or PDF)

96. Client onboarding system setup: $200-$1500 per set up

Streamline how service providers onboard new clients. This is a very useful service to offer to new businesses, as owners and creators are often so deep in the product that they fail to see how difficult the onboarding process is for newcomers. This involves building welcome packets, intake forms, automated emails, and task checklists.

What you need to start:

• Familiarity with tools like ClickUp and Notion
• Client experience design skills
• A way to process payments

97. App/software onboarding for teams: $150–$800 per session

When companies adopt tools like Notion, Slack, or Trello, they often need training. Offer team onboarding, setup guides, and video walkthroughs. A super simple service to sell, but one that is always in need.

What you need to start:

• Deep knowledge of specific software
• Screencast software (Loom, Scribe)
• One-pager or PDF guides for each tool

98. Internal knowledge base documentation: $200–$1,500 per project

Help teams centralize all of their knowledge into searchable databases. This is especially important for startups who are scaling rapidly. To make money with internal knowledge base building, create out an internal wiki, categorize info, and add visuals for clarity.

What you need to start:

• Tool of choice (Notion, Confluence, Slite)
• Content migration strategy
• Great communication skills

99. Corporate event planning: $1000–$10,000+ per event

From product launches to offsites, companies need pros to handle the logistics of bringing together large teams. Handle venue booking, travel, catering, and scheduling—all for a fee, of course.

What you need to start:

• Vendor relationships and event budget templates
• CRM or pipeline for tracking RSVPs
• Insurance and contracts checklist

100. Take corporate headshots: $100–$800 per shoot

All business types—corporate teams, solopreneurs, freelancers—need updated professional photos from time to time. Provide a service taking headshots by offering in-office or mobile setups with editing included.

What you need to start:

• Camera + lighting setup
• Portable backdrop kit
• Portfolio and online booking form

101. Mail services: $1–$5 per piece or monthly flat rate

Handle physical mailing tasks for businesses like printing, stuffing, stamping, or shipping. This service is good for political campaigns, realtors, or ecom sellers—anyone who has to take regular trips to the postal office.

What you need to start:

• Thermal printer and mail bins
• Bulk mail permit or USPS business account
• Tracking dashboard or update system

102. Debt collection: 15%–40% commission per recovery

In the US, 55% of all B2B invoiced sales are overdue. On top of that, small businesses dedicate (on average) 10% of their working day to chasing up unpaid invoices. Businesses need to recover that money, but often don't have the time or resources to chase it up themselves. If you’re confident, offer respectful but persistent follow-up via email, calls, or legal channels.

What you need to start:

• Knowledge of Fair Debt Collection laws
• Templated email and call scripts
• Escalation process or legal partner

103. Corporate travel agent: 10-20% commission per booking

Planning multi-leg business trips is a headache. As a travel agent, offer research, booking, and support for executives or remote teams. You can take bookings for CEOs traveling to meetings, entire teams traveling to company offsites, and everything in-between.

What you need to start:

• Knowledge of travel platforms and rewards systems
• Travel request intake form
• Real-time communication channel (e.g., WhatsApp, Slack, a whop)

104. Slack workspace organization: $200–$750 per audit/setup

Company Slack workspaces can get messy fast. Offer services to streamline channels, automate onboarding, and create clear comms structures for growing teams.

What you need to start:

• Slack admin experience and automation tools (like Slackbot, Zapier)
• Understanding of how business teams operate and communicate
• Before/after screenshots to show transformation

105. Research reports: $300–$3,000 per report

Businesses, investors, and creators need fast insights on markets, competitors, or trends. Offer deep research in digestible formats with citations. This is a service that you can either niche down on and offer to one industry, or keep a broad focus and reach businesses of all kinds.

What you need to start:

• Strong research and writing skills
• AI or research tools (Like ChatGPT, WriterZen, Statista)
• Design templates for reports or presentations

106. HR compliance consulting: $500–$5,000 per project

Every small business needs HR policies, but most don’t have time to create them. As a compliance consultant, you help companies stay aligned with labor laws, payroll rules, and workplace regulations. You can package policies, employee handbooks, and training programs.

What you need to start:

• HR background or certifications
• Policy templates and compliance checklists
• Intake system for company size and needs

107. Recruiting & talent sourcing: 15–25% of first-year salary

Hiring the right people is hard, so many businesses outsource it. As a recruiter, you source, screen, and place candidates for key roles. Focus on a niche—tech, healthcare, sales—for higher demand and higher fees.

What you need to start:

• LinkedIn Recruiter or hiring platforms
• Strong industry network
• Applicant tracking system (ATS)

Run your service business from one powerful platform: Whop

Keep it simple with the calendar bookings app, or, run your entire offer on Whop. No matter which service-based business idea you choose, you can run it completely from Whop.

With Whop, you can create your own branded space (your “whop”) in minutes—then add only the apps you need to run your business.

• Want to create a collaborative space where your clients can talk to each other? Add the chat app.
• Prefer a one-way broadcast model? Use the forums app to share updates, resources, or announcements without opening the floor for replies.
• Need to host video calls with clients? Add the video app.
• Selling digital products like files, courses, or templates (or need to send a contract)? Use the files app and courses app to deliver everything in one place.
• Taking bookings? Use the calendar bookings app
• You can even send voice notes, DM customers privately, and manage client access all in-platform.

Whop handles the backend for you—payment processing, content delivery, customer access, and dispute resolution—so you can spend less time stressing and more time scaling your service business.

Whatever you offer—coaching, lawn mowing, cleaning, or community management—you can build it on Whop.

FAQs about starting a service-based business