Find a business that fits your budget, your skills and the market. Start with the numbers for each industry, then filter ideas to match what you can invest.
Industries
Each profile covers market size, growth, the outlook, jobs, typical startup costs and the risks to plan for. Every figure links to its source.
- Beauty and Personal Care IndustryAbout 651,000 barbers, hairstylists and cosmetologists (2024)Jobs projected +5% from 2024 to 2034
- Childcare IndustryNational average price of $13,184 a year per child (2025)Family childcare homes +1.4% in 2025; licensed centers -1%
- Cleaning Services IndustryAbout 2.4 million janitor and building cleaner jobs in the US (2024)Jobs projected +2% from 2024 to 2034
- E-commerce Industry$340.2 billion US e-commerce sales in Q2 2026+12.2% year over year (Q2 2026)
- Fitness Industry81 million US gym and studio members (2025), a record+5.2% members in 2025
- Home Services and Remodeling Industry$517 billion yearly homeowner improvement and repair spending (mid-2026)Slowing, from 2.1% to a projected 0.5% by mid-2027
- Landscaping and Lawn Care IndustryAbout 1.3 million grounds maintenance jobs in the US (2024)Jobs projected +4% from 2024 to 2034
- Pet Care Industry$158 billion US spending (2025)+3.7% in 2025
- Restaurant and Food Service Industry$1.55 trillion projected US restaurant and foodservice sales (2026)+4.8% in dollars, +1.3% after inflation (2026 forecast)
Find a business idea
Filter by how much you can invest, how you want to work and the industry that interests you.
3 ideas match
- HVAC Service Company
Heating and cooling repairs can't wait, and maintenance plans turn one-off calls into recurring revenue. Requires licensing and real trade experience.
Startup cost: $40,000 to $120,000 including van, tools and licensing (estimate)First revenue: 1 to 2 months once licensed
- Landscape Installation Business
Design and build gardens, patios, walls, lighting and irrigation. Bigger projects and higher margins than mowing, with more skill and risk.
Startup cost: $25,000 to $100,000 for equipment, trailer and vehicles (estimate)First revenue: 1 to 2 months
- Mobile Dog Grooming
Bring the grooming salon to the driveway. Higher startup cost than walking, but a higher price per visit and loyal repeat customers.
Startup cost: $30,000 to $100,000, mostly the van (estimate)First revenue: 1 to 3 months
Ready to start?
Follow the Start a Business A–Z guide from idea to first customer.
Last reviewed October 17, 2026. Startup costs are estimates; check local prices, licensing and tax rules before you commit money.
