50 Low-Cost Businesses to Start from Home

Starting a home-based business is a great way to leverage your skills and passions without needing a large investment. With the rise of digital tools and flexible working arrangements, many business ideas can now be operated from the comfort of your home. Below are 50 low-cost businesses to start from home with detailed explanations and tips to help you get started.

1. Become a Freelance Writer

Freelance writers create content for blogs, websites, magazines, and businesses. They can write on various topics like travel, finance, health, and more. This business is ideal for those who have strong writing skills and enjoy researching. Freelancing platforms provide numerous opportunities to find clients. Writers can also establish their brand by launching a blog.

Tips to get started:

• Build a portfolio with different writing samples.
• Register on freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr.
• Network with business owners and agencies.
• Learn SEO and content marketing strategies.
• Set up a personal website to showcase your work.

2. Manage Properties

As a property manager, you would oversee the maintenance, tenant relations, and renting of homes or apartments for landlords. This can include managing bookings, repairs, rent collection, and other property-related tasks. Property management is a business suited for people with strong organizational and communication skills.

Tips to get started:

• Research local property management laws and regulations.
• Build relationships with landlords and tenants.
• Create contracts that outline your services.
• Use property management software to streamline tasks.
• Market your services online and through local networking.

3. Start a Landscaping Business

Landscaping involves designing, maintaining, and caring for gardens, lawns, and outdoor spaces. It can include tasks like mowing lawns, planting trees, and designing landscapes for residential and commercial properties. This business is ideal for those with a love for nature and working outdoors.

Tips to get started:

• Learn about different plants, trees, and landscaping designs.
• Invest in basic landscaping tools.
• Offer free or discounted services to build a portfolio.
• Advertise your services in local community groups.
• Build relationships with local nurseries and garden suppliers.

4. Start a House Cleaning Business

House cleaning businesses provide cleaning services to homeowners, renters, and real estate agents. This can include general cleaning, deep cleaning, and specialized services like carpet or window cleaning. It’s an easy-to-start business that requires little upfront investment.

Tips to get started:

• Purchase essential cleaning supplies and equipment.
• Offer competitive rates to attract first clients.
• Set up a business website or social media page for visibility.
• Consider offering green or eco-friendly cleaning services.
• Ask satisfied clients for reviews and referrals.

5. Become a Personal Chef

Personal chefs prepare meals for clients, often catering to dietary needs or busy schedules. This business is ideal for those who love cooking and have a wide range of culinary skills. It allows you to serve clients by cooking meals in their homes or delivering pre-prepared meals.

Tips to get started:

• Get certified in food safety and handling.
• Develop a menu showcasing your cooking range.
• Market to busy professionals and families.
• Offer meal plans catering to specific dietary needs.
• Ask clients for testimonials to build credibility.

6. Start a Home Staging Business

Home staging involves decorating homes to make them more appealing to potential buyers. Stagers arrange furniture, decor, and lighting to highlight a home’s best features. This business is perfect for individuals with a keen eye for design and interior aesthetics.

Tips to get started:

• Take courses in interior design or home staging.
• Partner with local real estate agents for referrals.
• Invest in versatile furniture and decor items.
• Build a portfolio by staging homes for friends or family.
• Market your services to homeowners and realtors.

7. Run a Mobile Spa

A mobile spa brings relaxation and pampering to clients in their homes. Services can include massages, facials, manicures, and other beauty treatments. This business is great for licensed beauticians or massage therapists who want to offer flexible and on-the-go services.

How to get started:

• Get certified in relevant beauty and spa services.
• Invest in portable equipment like massage tables and beauty kits.
• Create a website or social media presence to market your services.
• Offer packages for events like bridal showers or parties.
• Partner with local event planners for more exposure.

Read also: Digital Marketing Salary & Scope in the USA

8. Offer Therapy

Therapists can offer counselling or therapy services from home, in-person or virtually. Whether focusing on mental health, relationship counselling, or life coaching, this business is ideal for licensed professionals who want a flexible work environment.

Tips to get started:

• Obtain the necessary licenses and certifications.
• Set up a professional and private space for client sessions.
• Use teletherapy platforms to reach a broader audience.
• Offer free consultations to attract potential clients.
• Network with other mental health professionals for referrals.

9. Run Meditation Sessions

Meditation sessions can be offered to individuals or groups looking to manage stress and improve mindfulness. You can host these sessions online or in person, teaching meditation techniques, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices.

Tips to get started:

• Get certified as a meditation or mindfulness instructor.
• Offer free introductory sessions to build an audience.
• Market through wellness communities and social media.
• Record and sell guided meditation tracks online.
• Partner with local wellness centres for collaboration.

10. Teach Journaling Methods

Teaching journaling techniques helps people express their thoughts and emotions through writing. As a journaling coach, you guide clients on how to use journaling for self-discovery, stress relief, and goal setting. This business is ideal for those who love writing and personal development.

Tips to get started:

• Create different journaling methods for various goals.
• Offer workshops or one-on-one coaching sessions.
• Publish an e-book or online course on journaling techniques.
• Promote your services through mental health groups.
• Collaborate with wellness coaches to expand your audience.

11. Be a Professional Organizer

Professional organizers help individuals declutter and organize their homes, offices, or digital spaces. This service is great for people who enjoy creating efficient systems and organizing environments. The goal is to improve clients’ productivity and create calm and orderly spaces.

Tips to get started:

• Build a portfolio by offering free services to friends and family.
• Join professional organizing associations to gain credibility.
• Market your services to busy professionals or families.
• Offer virtual organizing consultations to expand your reach.
• Create packages for different types of organization projects.

12. Edit Podcasts

Podcast editors help podcasters improve their audio quality by removing background noise, enhancing sound, and cutting unnecessary parts. As more people start podcasts, the demand for editors has grown. You can work remotely with clients all over the world.

Tips to get started:

• Learn basic audio editing software like Audacity or Adobe Audition.
• Offer to edit episodes for new podcasters for free or at a low cost.
• Build a website showcasing your podcast editing skills.
• Market your services on podcasting forums and groups.
• Create packages for different levels of editing.

13. Create a Herbal Product Line

Herbal products such as teas, balms, and skin care items are becoming increasingly popular. This business is ideal for those with a passion for natural remedies and wellness. You can sell your products online or at local markets.

How to get started:

• Research the best herbs and natural ingredients for your products.
• Get certified in herbalism or take a course in natural product creation.
• Design eco-friendly packaging for your products.
• Create a website and sell through online marketplaces.
• Partner with wellness bloggers or influencers for promotion.

14. Create a Candle Brand

Creating and selling candles can be a profitable and creative business. Candles are always in demand for gifting, home decor, and wellness. You can experiment with different scents, designs, and packaging to stand out.

Tips to get started:

• Learn the basics of candle making, including scent blending and wax types.
• Purchase candle-making supplies in bulk to reduce costs.
• Create unique branding for your candles, including eco-friendly packaging.
• Sell through online platforms like Etsy or at local markets.
• Offer custom candles for events like weddings or corporate gifts.

Read also: Top 10 Ways to Make Money Online Without Any Investment

15. Buy Products in Bulk & Sell Them Online

Purchasing items in bulk at a lower price and selling them individually for profit is a simple business model. You can sell various products, from clothing to electronics, through online platforms.

Tips to get started:

• Research popular products with high demand and profit margins.
• Buy in bulk from wholesale websites like Alibaba.
• Set up an online store through platforms like Shopify.
• Market your products on social media and through paid ads.
• Offer great customer service to encourage repeat customers.

16. Sell Homemade Products

If you are skilled in making items like crafts, food, or skincare, you can turn your hobby into a business. Selling homemade products is a great way to showcase your creativity and earn income.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a specific niche to focus on, such as handmade jewellery or baked goods.
• Ensure that your products meet local regulations for homemade goods.
• Sell your products on Etsy or at craft fairs.
• Use social media to market your products.
• Offer custom or seasonal products to attract more customers.

17. Start a Dropshipping Store

Dropshipping allows you to sell products without keeping inventory. You partner with a supplier who ships products directly to your customers. This business is ideal for those who want to start an online store without upfront inventory costs.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a niche that you are passionate about.
• Research reliable dropshipping suppliers.
• Set up an e-commerce website through Shopify or WooCommerce.
• Market your store through social media and online ads.
• Offer excellent customer service to build trust with your buyers.

18. Start a Print on Demand Business

With print on demand, you can sell custom-designed products like T-shirts, mugs, and posters. You create the designs, and a printing company handles the production and shipping. This business allows you to focus on creating designs without worrying about inventory.

Tips to get started:

• Create unique and eye-catching designs for your products.
• Partner with a reliable print-on-demand service like Printful or Redbubble.
• Set up an online store to showcase your designs.
• Market your products on social media and through influencer partnerships.
• Use paid ads to reach a larger audience.

19. Offer Online Services

Online services like graphic design, web development, and digital marketing are in high demand. These skills can be offered from home, providing businesses with the expertise they need without a full-time hire.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a specific service to specialize in.
• Create a portfolio showcasing your previous work.
• Use freelance platforms like Upwork to find clients.
• Market your services through social media and networking.
• Offer discounts to new clients to build your reputation.

20. Teach Online Classes

If you are an expert in a subject or skill, you can create and sell online courses. Platforms like Udemy or Teachable allow you to share your knowledge with students worldwide. Teaching online offers flexibility and the chance to generate passive income.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a subject you are passionate and knowledgeable about.
• Outline your course and create engaging content, including videos and quizzes.
• Publish your course on an online learning platform.
• Promote your course through blogs, social media, and email marketing.
• Engage with students by offering additional resources or live sessions.

21. Monetize Your Expertise

You can monetize your knowledge in areas like business, finance, or personal development by offering coaching or consulting services. This business allows you to help others while generating income from your expertise.

Tips to get started:

• Define your niche and identify your target audience.
• Build a personal brand by sharing valuable content on social media.
• Create packages for one-on-one or group coaching.
• Offer free consultations to attract potential clients.
• Use testimonials and case studies to build credibility.

Read also: Top 10 Jobs for 12-Year-Olds That Pay

22. Grow an Audience You Can Monetize

Building a large following on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or a blog can lead to monetization through ads, sponsorships, or selling products. Content creation requires consistency and creativity but can be highly rewarding.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a specific niche or interest to focus on.
• Create high-quality and engaging content regularly.
• Engage with your audience by responding to comments and questions.
• Monetize through ads, sponsored content, or affiliate marketing.
• Diversify your income streams by selling products or offering services.

23. Buy an Existing Small Business

Buying an existing small business can save you time in building from scratch. Many small businesses are for sale online, offering opportunities in various industries. This is a great option if you want to skip the startup phase.

Tips to get started:

• Research businesses for sale in your preferred industry.
• Perform due diligence to assess the business’s financial health.
• Negotiate a fair purchase price and secure financing if needed.
• Transition smoothly by learning from the previous owner.
• Implement new strategies to grow the business.

24. Start a Subscription Box Business

Subscription boxes offer curated products delivered monthly to customers. This business model is growing rapidly, with boxes available for everything from beauty products to snacks.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a niche that has an engaged audience.
• Partner with suppliers to source products for your boxes.
• Build a website where customers can subscribe to your service.
• Offer promotions or discounts to attract first-time subscribers.
• Use social media influencers to promote your box.

25. Turn Your Pet Into an Influencer

If your pet has a unique look or personality, you can turn them into a social media star. Pet influencers can earn money through sponsorships, ads, and merchandise sales.

Tips to get started:

• Create an Instagram or TikTok account for your pet.
• Post high-quality, fun, and engaging content regularly.
• Use popular hashtags to increase visibility.
• Collaborate with pet brands for sponsorships.
• Sell branded merchandise featuring your pet’s image.

26. Sell Used Items

Selling used items is a simple and eco-friendly business. You can resell anything from clothing to furniture. Thrift stores, garage sales, and online platforms like eBay make it easy to start.

Tips to get started:

• Collect items from your own home or buy them secondhand.
• Clean and repair the items to improve their resale value.
• List products on platforms like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace.
• Take high-quality photos for online listings.
• Set competitive prices to attract buyers quickly.

27. Play Video Games Professionally

If you love gaming, becoming a professional gamer can be a dream job. You can earn money through live streaming, sponsorships, and tournaments. Many gamers also create content on YouTube or Twitch.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a popular game and specialize in it.
• Stream your gameplay on platforms like Twitch or YouTube.
• Interact with your viewers to build a community.
• Participate in online tournaments and competitions.
• Collaborate with gaming brands for sponsorships.

28. Sell Your Art

Artists can sell their paintings, drawings, or digital art online. Many platforms, such as Etsy or Redbubble, allow artists to reach a global audience.

Tips to get started:

• Build a portfolio of your best artwork.
• Sell prints or original pieces on platforms like Etsy or Redbubble.
• Use social media to market your art and engage with potential buyers.
• Offer custom art commissions for extra income.
• Package your artwork professionally for shipping.

Read also: Top 10 Easy YouTube Ideas for Teens

29. Become a Virtual Event Planner

Virtual event planners organize online conferences, webinars, and parties. As the demand for virtual events grows, this home-based business is increasingly popular. You can manage everything from invitations to tech support.

Tips to get started:

• Learn to use virtual event platforms like Zoom or Hopin.
• Market your services to businesses and individuals.
• Create event packages for different client needs.
• Offer tech support and troubleshooting during events.
• Promote your business on LinkedIn and other professional platforms.

30. Launch a Photography Business

Photography can be a profitable business if you have a good eye and camera skills. You can specialize in events, portraits, or product photography. Clients will pay for professional-quality photos for personal or business use.

Tips to get started:

• Invest in a good camera and editing software.
• Build a portfolio with a variety of photos.
• Offer your services for weddings, family portraits, or businesses.
• Market your services on social media and photography platforms.
• Collaborate with local businesses for product photography.

31. Start a Beauty Business

Beauty businesses, like makeup artistry or hairstyling, can be done from home or as a mobile service. Offering personalized beauty services allows you to work with clients on special occasions or for everyday needs.

Tips to get started:

• Take a beauty certification course for makeup or hairstyling.
• Create a portfolio showcasing your skills.
• Market your services through social media and local advertisements.
• Offer mobile services for events like weddings or proms.
• Provide personalized beauty consultations.

32. Start an Affiliate Marketing Business

Affiliate marketers earn commissions by promoting other companies’ products. You don’t need to create your own product, making it an easy business to start from home.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a niche and find affiliate programs in that area.
• Build a website or blog to promote products.
• Use SEO techniques to drive traffic to your site.
• Promote products through email marketing and social media.
• Track your earnings and optimize your marketing efforts.

33. Start a Day Care

Running a home-based day care is perfect for people who love working with children. You can offer safe and nurturing care for busy parents. This business has low startup costs and high demand in many communities.

Tips to get started:

• Obtain any necessary certifications or licenses for child care.
• Set up a safe and kid-friendly area in your home.
• Market your day care services to local parents.
• Offer flexible hours and affordable pricing.
• Ensure that you have insurance to cover your business.

34. Sell on Marketplaces

Selling products on online marketplaces like eBay, Amazon, or Etsy is a popular business model. You can sell new, used, or handmade items to a global audience.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a product category that you are familiar with.
• Research marketplace fees and requirements.
• Create professional listings with clear photos and descriptions.
• Use competitive pricing to attract buyers.
• Offer excellent customer service to earn positive reviews.

35. Become a Social Media Manager

Social media managers help businesses manage their online presence. This includes creating content, scheduling posts, and engaging with followers. Many companies outsource this role, making it a great home-based business.

Tips to get started:

• Learn the basics of social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
• Build a portfolio with examples of social media campaigns.
• Offer your services to small businesses or startups.
• Use social media scheduling tools to manage multiple clients.
• Stay up to date with social media trends and algorithms.

Read also: I want to start a business but have no ideas

36. Become a Virtual Personal Trainer

If you’re a fitness enthusiast, you can offer virtual training sessions from home. Virtual personal trainers guide clients through workouts using video calls or apps. This allows you to work with clients anywhere in the world.

Tips to get started:

• Get certified as a personal trainer.
• Create a fitness program tailored to different skill levels.
• Offer one-on-one or group sessions via Zoom or Skype.
• Market your services to busy professionals or stay-at-home parents.
• Provide customized workout and meal plans.

37. Offer Bookkeeping Services

Bookkeeping involves managing a company’s financial records, including expenses, income, and taxes. It’s a skill that’s always in demand, especially with small businesses looking to outsource their accounting needs.

Tips to get started:

• Take an online course in bookkeeping or accounting.
• Use accounting software like QuickBooks to streamline the process.
• Offer your services to local businesses or online through platforms like Upwork.
• Market your bookkeeping services through business networks.
• Keep up with tax laws and financial regulations.

38. Design Websites

Web design involves creating websites for businesses, bloggers, and individuals. Many businesses need professional websites but don’t have the skills to create them, making this a lucrative home business.

Tips to get started:

• Learn web design tools like WordPress, HTML, and CSS.
• Build a portfolio by offering free or low-cost websites to local businesses.
• Market your services on freelance platforms or social media.
• Create packages based on the complexity of the website.
• Offer maintenance services for recurring income.

39. Start a Dog Grooming Business

Dog grooming is an in-demand service that can be offered from home or as a mobile service. You can help pet owners keep their dogs clean and healthy.

Tips to get started:

• Take a dog grooming course to learn the basics.
• Purchase grooming tools like clippers, brushes, and dryers.
• Set up a grooming station in your home or offer mobile services.
• Market your services to local pet owners or at dog parks.
• Offer additional services like nail trimming or ear cleaning.

40. Become a Pet Sitter

Pet sitting is a flexible and rewarding home-based business. You can care for pets while their owners are away, either in your home or at the owner’s home. This is a great business for animal lovers.

Tips to get started:

• Offer your services to friends and family to gain experience.
• Market your pet sitting services on social media or pet care platforms.
• Set clear pricing for daily or overnight stays.
• Ensure that you have insurance for your pet sitting business.
• Build a good relationship with local pet owners for repeat business.

41. Teach Languages Online

If you’re fluent in multiple languages and you can teach languages to students online. Many people are willing to pay for private language lessons to improve their skills or for business needs.

Tips to get started:

• Get certified as a language tutor.
• Offer your lessons on platforms like iTalki or Preply.
• Create engaging lessons that cater to beginners and advanced learners.
• Use video conferencing tools for one-on-one or group lessons.
• Build a website to attract more students.

42. Create Online Courses

Sharing your knowledge through online courses can generate passive income. Platforms like Udemy or Teachable allow you to create and sell courses on various topics, from cooking to marketing.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a subject you are an expert in.
• Record high-quality videos and create downloadable resources.
• Market your course through email campaigns and social media.
• Offer discounts or early bird pricing to attract initial students.
• Collect feedback to improve your courses over time.

Read also: Google Ads Expert Salary & Scope in the USA

43. Offer Resume Writing Services

Many job seekers struggle with creating effective resumes. By offering resume writing services, you can help people improve their chances of landing a job.

Tips to get started:

• Learn the best practices for modern resume writing.
• Build a portfolio by helping friends or family with their resumes.
• Market your services on LinkedIn or job boards.
• Offer additional services like cover letter writing or interview coaching.
• Create packages based on different career levels or industries.

44. Start a Podcast

Podcasting has exploded in popularity and is a great way to build an audience while discussing your passions. Once you grow your listener base, you can earn money through sponsorships or ads.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a niche or topic you’re passionate about.
• Invest in a good microphone and recording software.
• Record and edit high-quality episodes regularly.
• Promote your podcast on social media and podcast directories.
• Collaborate with other podcasters to grow your audience.

45. Start a Home Catering Business

If you enjoy cooking, a home-based catering business allows you to prepare meals for events and parties. You can cater for small gatherings, weddings, or corporate events.

Tips to get started:

• Obtain any necessary food handling certifications.
• Choose a specialty or cuisine to focus on.
• Market your catering services to local event planners or through social media.
• Offer tasting events to attract clients.
• Ensure that your kitchen complies with local food safety regulations.

46. Become a Translator

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, you can offer translation services to businesses or individuals. Many companies need translators for documents, websites, or video content.

Tips to get started:

• Offer your services on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
• Build a portfolio by translating documents or websites.
• Specialize in a particular industry, like legal or medical translation.
• Market your services to local businesses or online.
• Stay up to date with industry terminology.

47. Offer Voiceover Services

Voiceover artists provide the voices for commercials, audiobooks, and videos. If you have a clear and engaging voice, this could be a great home-based business.

Tips to get started:

• Invest in a good microphone and recording software.
• Build a demo reel showcasing your voiceover range.
• Offer your services on platforms like Voices.com or Fiverr.
• Market your services to businesses that need video or podcast narration.
• Practice regularly to improve your vocal skills.

48. Create Custom Clothing

Custom clothing businesses create personalized garments like T-shirts, hoodies, or hats. You can sell your designs through platforms like Etsy or create custom orders for clients.

Tips to get started:

• Invest in a sewing machine or screen printing equipment.
• Create a portfolio of designs or custom clothing pieces.
• Market your clothing on social media or Etsy.
• Offer personalized designs for events like weddings or corporate events.
• Provide excellent customer service for repeat clients.

49. Become a YouTube Content Creator

Creating content on YouTube is a popular way to build an audience and earn money through ads or sponsorships. You can create videos on almost any topic, from travel to tech reviews.

Tips to get started:

• Choose a niche or topic you’re passionate about.
• Invest in a good camera and editing software.
• Create high-quality and engaging videos regularly.
• Market your YouTube channel through social media and collaborations.
• Monetize your videos through ads or brand partnerships.

Read also: Social Media Manager Salary & Scope in the USA

50. Become a Dropshipper

Dropshipping is a business model where you sell products without holding inventory. When a customer buys a product, the supplier ships it directly to them. This model allows you to start an e-commerce business with low upfront costs.

How to get started:

• Choose a niche and find reliable suppliers.
• Set up an online store using platforms like Shopify.
• Market your products through social media or paid advertising.
• Provide excellent customer service to retain customers.
• Optimize your store for search engines to attract more traffic.

Final Thoughts

Starting a home-based business is an exciting opportunity to turn your passions into income. Whether you’re selling products, offering services, or sharing your expertise, there are endless possibilities. With low overhead and flexible hours, these businesses can grow at your own pace. Consistency and dedication, along with smart marketing, will be key to your success. Choose the business that aligns with your skills and interests, and take the first step towards building your future from the comfort of your home.