With consumers wanting convenience more than ever, many look to hire people whose skills and talents match their specific needs. Consider the following service business ideas as you prepare for your big entrepreneurial break into this thriving industry, and create a small business website that will support you along the way.
Best service business ideas
Personal and wellness service business ideas
5. Hairdresser
8. Barbershop
10. Male salon
16. Baby consultant
17. Doula
18. Parenting expert
20. Pet grooming
22. Cleaning service
23. Car wash service
24. Car repairs
25. Dry cleaning
01. Fitness trainer
Not only do you spend all your time at the gym, you’ve also trained others and have helped them get results using your exercise techniques. With the help of a powerful fitness website, you’ll be able to manage your own classes and provide the best experience for your clients. Expand your business by also starting a fitness clothing line.
02. Yoga instructor
From Vinyasa to Hatha yoga, you’ve already been thinking outside the mat and onto ways you can change other people's lives. Becoming a yoga instructor means that you’ll be working to enhance the wellbeing of those who come to your classes and watch them blossom into full-fledged yogis. Then, you can create a health and wellness website to promote your brand to get as many new clients as possible.
03. Meditation instructor
As a meditation teacher, you can work with clients one on one or lead mediation sessions and retreats. You will show students meditation's benefits and guide them on their own spiritual paths. This ancient service, traced back over thousands of years in India, is done from the heart in hopes of bettering the world.
04. Makeup artist
You’ve got boundless creativity when it comes to beauty and the skills to match it, too. Whether it’s helping a bride look picture perfect on her big day or styling models for photoshoots, you’ll always strive to make a positive impact on your client’s most important moments.
05. Hairdresser
Among the most rewarding service business ideas, being a hairdresser lets you meet all kinds of people and even enjoy a nice chat in between the blow dryer. You can use your knowledge of hair types, coloring and hairstyles to build a fulfilling career in this industry. This also works well as a small town business idea.
06. Skin care specialist
Cleanse, exfoliate, wax and laser are all part of your line of work. As a skin care specialist, you assess the condition of a client’s skin, like how to reduce the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles, and then perform relevant treatments. In most U.S. states, you’re also required to complete an esthetician program in order to obtain a license to practice.
07. Personal chef
A personal chef cooks in private residences, dinner parties and even major events in clients’ lives. Aside from having culinary experience, personal chefs need certain skills for their service business to blossom. These qualities include creativity, time management and business acumen.
Learn more about how to start a food business or how to start a coffee shop.
08. Barbershop
Barbers are not only specialized in cutting hair and shaving necks and faces, they're also great at connecting with clients by paying attention to the smallest detail. Tools like Dayful.com can help manage your scheduling and add more staff if needed.
09. Nail technician
For clients, having their nails done is about gaining a fun experience vis-à-vis how they are served. After all, many consider getting a manicure as a kind of indulgence. In this field, you’ll also want to stay on top of all cutting edge nail trends to ensure that clients leave feeling chic.
10. Male salon
In certain locations, there is a demand for high-end male grooming that goes beyond the regular services of a barber. As a result, male salons offer a line of luxury grooming options for cosmopolitan men, including wet shaving, skincare and bronzing. You can get started by creating a salon website that is sure to wow your clientele.
11. Online medical consultation
Among the most essential service business ideas today, online medical consultation lets doctors perform important duties, like giving prescriptions and using intelligent symptom checking methods to examine their patients thoroughly, while being remote. It’s a great addition to healthcare websites.
12. Professional coaching
If you're trying to come up with a business idea and grow professionally, look no further. At its core, coaching is about the development of a person. Your job is to enable businesses and people to achieve their career goals using different techniques, like role-playing exercises or simulations.
13. Alternative medicine practitioner
Homeopathy, traditional medicine, chiropractic and acupuncture are all different types of alternative practices that complement conventional medicine. As these forms of treatment become more mainstream, alternative medicine practitioners are finding new opportunities to reach a diverse clientele.
14. Registered nutritionist
With the help of a registered nutritionist, people can lead healthier lives, which plays a significant role in our wellbeing. While one needs to have a bachelor’s degree to become a registered nutritionist, advanced degrees are also highly recommended and most U.S. states require licensure to practice.
15. Real estate consultant
A real estate consultant helps clients through the process of buying and selling property and offers an array of specialized services, including market analysis, lease management and assets. A real estate agent can also help property owners navigate the world of renting out their home for investment purposes. Some estate agents, with their own knowledge of the industry, may also choose to buy and rent property as a service business idea of their own. You may also set up your practice to offer these services to clients on an hourly basis.
Learn more:
16. Baby consultant
Every parent wants to unlock the secrets of their baby, like how to make them fall asleep and other troubleshooting issues. A baby consultant offers their expertise on the matter and coaches parents to better understand their babies so everyone wins.
You could also consider supplementing this service business idea, by selling baby related products and items with an eCommerce business model. To do this you'll need to make an eCommerce website.
17. Doula
A doula acts as an educator, mentor and advocate for clients during child labor. With so many couples looking to bring their own doulas to their birth and delivery experience, this is among the fastest growing service business ideas.
18. Parenting expert
From breastfeeding to managing kids’ daily curveballs, parenting experts possess knowledge in child development, education, psychology and communication. Parenting experts can run the gamut of working with families to create personalized parenting plans, to authoring best-selling parent manuals. This can also be a great family business idea.
19. Children’s entertainment services
To become a competitive and successful children's entertainer, you need to adapt your acting, puppetry, musical and dancing talents into your shows. Of course, you should also have a passion for working with children and have strong interpersonal skills. Your availability must include weekends and holidays.
20. Pet grooming
Pet owners don’t just love their pets, they want to spoil them, too. Today, one doesn’t need a physical location to open a pet grooming business. Instead, groomers are taking their services to their clients’ homes to ease a nervous pooch or fidgety cat in need of a cut or wash.
21. Bicycle repair shop
You’ve got to inspect, diagnose and fix your client’s bike so that they can get back on the road as quickly as possible. Your experience is built on the job, where you’ll learn how to repair even the most advanced problems. As a result, you not only know how to deal with all types of bikes, like mountain, racing or road bikes, but you’re also caught up on the latest technology in the industry.
22. Cleaning service
Mopping, vacuuming and dusting are your specialities. Offering cleaning services is also a great way to make fast money with little investment to start and whip untidy homes or offices into a shape. Cleaning also tends to be a great recession-proof business idea, as it's always in demand.
Learn how to start a cleaning business or how to start a pressure washing business. Then create a specialized logo with a Cleaning Logo Maker.
23. Car wash service
Seeing no shortage of vehicles on the roadway, there’s always a car in need of washing. With the proper equipment and maintenance, you can create a lucrative car wash service designed for your community. This can also be a great teen business idea, for teenagers wanting to start a business.
24. Car repairs
“It is better to travel in hope than arrive in despair,” said the late “Car Talk” radio co-host Tom Magliozzi. This is exactly what drives a petrol head like yourself to provide top repair service and vehicle maintenance so that no client of yours faces their own road of “despair.”
25. Dry cleaning
It takes a pair of serious steamers, an endless supply of stain removers and unstoppable determination to kick off a career in dry cleaning. Today, many clients are also looking to become more environmentally friendly when it comes to choosing their service providers, so be sure to offer biodegradable plastic bags and minimize waste.
Academic consulting services business ideas
27. Online tutor
26. Homeschool teacher
Homeschool teachers’ responsibilities can include creating engaging lesson plans, educating children with special needs and teaching a subject area. On your service website, don’t forget to state your academic degrees and specialized training to stand out as a qualified candidate.
27. Online tutor
Get paid to teach people your favorite subjects and passions. Tutors support student’s learning and ensure they achieve their potential in school. You can teach online from anywhere and create your own schedule. This is an easy business idea for teachers to start.
28. College application consultant
Colleges are more selective than ever—and the application process has become more stressful. A college application consultant guides students and parents through this difficult experiences. Many families are ready to hire those with invaluable insights and high acceptance rates.
29. SAT and ACT tutoring and preparation
Many students need special prep for these standardized tests, and specialized tutors can provide an important service for college-bound students. From algebra to writing and reading, the SAT and ACT require familiarization and strategy to get results.
Marketing and sales service business ideas
30. Website designer
31. Graphic designer
32. Technical writer
33. Content writer
35. Ghostwriter
36. SEO strategist
40. Brand ambassador
30. Website designer
So many people want to improve their online presence and may look for a website designer to help them out. Known for being creative and technical in their craft, web designers work closely with clients to build them the most powerful tool in today’s competitive landscape—a fast working and professional website. Connect with clients via the Wix marketplace.
This also has the potential to be a very scalable busines idea as you increase the number of clients you have.
31. Graphic designer
Creativity is crucial for this service business idea and so is having a good eye for details. As a graphic designer, you’ll have an avenue from where to bring your best ideas to life and sharpen your problem solving skills with the challenges that arise.
32. Technical writer
Technical writing is organized by facts, research and easy to understand explanations. There are different types of technical writing including medical, financial and scientific document writing, as well as how-to manuals.
33. Content writer
In the digital age, the demand for top quality content is rapidly increasing. That’s good news for content writers who are deadline-driven and persistent in their goal to create the most engaging and valuable content, usually in the form of blog posts, websites, digital marketing and white papers. A great way to self publish and get your content out there is by creating a blog.
34. Editor and proofreader
As critical readers, editors offer suggestions to improve and polish writing. Proofreaders then come in with their keen eye to catch every typo that might spoil the reading experience. Both play essential roles in the editorial process, thus are always in demand.
35. Ghostwriter
Generally referred to someone who writes a piece uncredited, ghostwriters can earn quite well compared to other writing freelancers. To do your job effectively, you’ll need to work out the differences between how your client’s voice sounds from how they read.
36. SEO strategist
Businesses and professionals alike will benefit from having an SEO strategist at their side to help drive more traffic to their websites. SEO, or search engine optimization, is the process of optimizing web pages, so they rank better on search engines like Google. This highly profitable skill is key to creating a powerful online presence.
37. Social media consultant
Serving as the voice of businesses across social networks, social media consultants run campaigns, write posts, drive sales and work to improve overall engagement on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Twitter. This service business is considered among the best jobs in the U.S. today.
38. Email marketing specialist
Marketing a service can be challenging, but with an estimated 3.9 billion email accounts worldwide, businesses are now using them to reach prospective customers via their inbox. An email marketing specialist designs emails and writes content that will nurture leads and sales for companies, digital marketing agencies and other clients.
39. Online advertising consultant
The role of an internet advertising consultant is to create an advertising strategy for clients. Knowing how to advertise online is key to being able to successfully compete against other business sites. As a result, these companies are looking to hire a consultant who will help them build the right plan for them.
40. Brand ambassador
A brand ambassador acts as a paid spokesperson in an attempt to sway a target audience to buy a company’s service or product. Though celebrities are usually associated with this lucrative practice, almost anyone with a large enough social media following can now become a micro influencer and make money from it.
Technology maintenance and repair business services ideas
42. App developer
41. IT support service
Combine your communication skills with specialized technical and computer experience and you’ll be a force to be reckoned with. Companies are always looking to hire extra hands with this kind of resume. It’s a job that can be done at any time.
42. App developer
As an app developer, you’re likely to collaborate on many exciting projects or ideas. Being fluent in common programming languages is a must and knowing basic software design is a huge plus. The app business is booming with more than 592 million day apps downloaded in 2020, according to the latest app usage statistics.
43. Computer repair service
Fixing faulty computers and equipment like printers and scanners, testing systems to make sure they work, is all part of the job of a computer repair technician. This valuable service is sought by businesses and individuals alike.
44. Data management consultant
As a data management consultant, you’re expected to manage an organization’s data systems and networks and analyze the data requirements. Typically, jobs in the field of data management require a bachelor’s degree or training in a program on data analysis or systems diagnostic.
45. Software installation service
You’ll install computer software and make sure all programs are properly functioning. You’ll also be offering support when issues arise. Duties include running diagnostic software and updates, as well as configuring various types of vital programs for your client.
B2B service business ideas
46. Translator
48. Bookkeeper
49. Data analyst
46. Translator
In a highly globalized marketplace, a translator will successfully help clients overcome language barriers and improve overall communication. There’s nothing more inspiring than making sure the right message is heard.
47. Virtual assistant
A virtual assistant provides clients with the extra support they need to manage emails, daily schedules and other administrative tasks. Furthermore, you'll need to be intuitive when it comes to meeting all your client’s needs and can enlist the help of online tools to streamline a number of administrative tasks.
48. Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers manage account records, write financial reports and monitor revenue, spending and invoices for clients. This job also involves skills like paying attention to detail, problem solving and being highly organized. It can also quality as a B2B business idea.
49. Data analyst
Your expertise is analyzing and solving hard problems. A data analyst also gathers and interprets data, knowing that employers will rely on this analysis to make important company decisions.
50. Freelance researcher
This job requires being able to perform all kinds of searches—big or small—and an undeniable passion for research. From this, clients expect being handed in rich reports of what you’ve uncovered.
51. Live chat operator
If you have a reliable internet connection, fast typing skills and enjoy helping others, then working as a live chat agent can be a totally satisfying home-based business idea for you.
Event service business ideas
52. Wedding planner
54. DJ
52. Wedding planner
Once your clients create a wedding website, you’ll take the reins. You’ll answer calls and emails from the engaged couple, hire vendors like florists and caterers, and conduct other essential tasks for throwing a successful wedding. This can be a great business idea for couples who want to work together and come with different strengths.
53. Event photographer
After you build a photography website for your business, you will want to get your name out. To engage site visitors, post your best event photos, add contact information and testimonials from former clients.
54. DJ
You can influence how people find new music and listen to it in new settings. You will also shape event attendees’ experience while catering to different musical interests. The biggest investment you’ll need to make as a DJ is purchasing or renting the right equipment before setting out on your own. Use these DJ and music producer templates to create your website.
Learn how to start a DJ business.
55. Event catering services
Event catering services depend on the occasion, but the best caterers are meticulous communicators and project managers. Previous event catering experience will attract clients, but you must also be comfortable with learning as you go, as each event will present unique challenges.
Home maintenance and repair service business ideas
59. Handyman service
60. Home decorator
61. Lawn care
62. Flooring company
63. Home organizer
64. AC technician
65. Plumber
66. Window cleaner
67. House painter
68. Property manager
56. Gardening service
With a green thumb and an exceptional understanding of growing and maintaining plants, your motivation to open a gardening service makes a lot of sense. It’s time to market your talents to those looking to recreate their own little jungle.
57. Moving and packing service
While moving can be a very trying time for most folks, you can help people lighten the load by stepping in with your amazing packing powers. Make sure to stock up on enough packing supplies, such as boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap and a trusty label maker.
58. Carpentry service
As a carpenter, you'll put your mind, body and soul into everything you do. You’re not looking to sit behind a desk; instead, you want to be the person who builds it. Whether it’s crafting a table or the foundation of a house, you’ll never find yourself unoccupied for too long with this DIY business idea.
59. Handyman service
Your sense of purpose comes from knowing your way around a toolbox and being able to fix just about anything thrown at you. This is work that also combines a lot of basic skills in plumbing, electricity, carpentry and even painting.
60. Home decorator
From color swatches and fabrics to throw pillows, your talented eye for interior design can translate into potential big bucks—and all from doing something you love. You’re also showing people how to beautify their spaces and express themselves through decor.
61. Lawn care
No lawn can ever be left untamed for too long. Thus, lawn care can become a perpetual way to generate revenue on a consistent basis, as most lawns need mowing once a week.
62. Flooring company
In each job, you’re either installing, removing or performing maintenance on a client’s flooring. You can offer your services to homeowners, shop owners, offices and any other physical location.
63. Home organizer
For most people, taking the time to organize their home doesn't only not come naturally, it's painful. So if you have a talent for making sense of messes, you could be sitting on a (neatly stacked) gold mine.
64. AC technician
We all can agree that finding the perfect temperature can make or break an indoor environment. But when things go awry, it’s time to bring in an AC technician to fix the ventilation system.
65. Plumber
A plumber’s day-to-day operations include repairing and replacing broken pipes, water lines, facets and more. You’ll need high technical knowledge to diagnose even the littlest plumbing problem.
66. Window cleaner
One day you might find yourself hanging from the side of a skyscraper and the next day, you’re washing windows standing on your own two feet. Window cleaning is physically intense work, but also rewarding to see results.
67. House painter
A fresh coat of paint can always brighten any room. As a house painter, you’ve got to get all the details fleshed out before dipping your brush into a bucket of paint, whether you’re dealing with an exterior or interior surface and the needs of your clients.
68. Property manager
Property management means finding good tenants, overseeing that the property is in top condition, and taking over financial responsibilities. You can create a travel and tourism website to attract prospective clients and marketing online.
Benefits to starting a service business
For those starting a business or are in the process of entering the passion economy, you’ll find that there are many advantages to running your own service business. You can leverage your skills and focus on your passion or interests, including for entrepreneurship, while helping others. Here are some additional benefits to having a service based business:
Low overhead costs and higher profits. If you're wondering how to start a service business, you can start by building a good reputation and publishing customer recommendations to get the word out. Creating a service website is a low-investment way to make that happen. Furthermore, unlike a product-based business which sells physical goods, a service-based business doesn’t have manufacturing, packing or shipping costs. In fact, you are the commodity.
Specialized services are highly valued and in demand. Choosing just one area to focus on—whether that’s teaching yoga or web design—lets you hone in on becoming an expert in your niche. This means you’ll also own an impressive set of skills most people won’t have. Customers are willing to pay more money for specialized services for the sake of convenience and efficiency.
Ability to be flexible and adaptable. With a service business, you can easily adjust and tailor your services to suit a client’s wants and needs. Additionally, you can test new ideas to add to your site and see which ones catch on or don’t.
Room for exponential growth. There is an undeniable scalability factor in operating a service business. You can instantly add or drop services following your target market and industry trends without having to change your entire business infrastructure. For some successful service business examples, check out our guide.
Other business ideas to explore:
Service business ideas FAQ
What is a service business?
A service business is a type of business that provides intangible products or services to its customers. This means that the products or services that a service business provides cannot be touched or held. Examples of service businesses include accounting, consulting, healthcare, education, legal services, transportation, retail and hospitality.