40 Best Home Business Ideas for Supplemental Income

With flexible schedules and low startup costs, starting a business from home has never been more popular than it is today. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 28.5 million nonemployer businesses in 2021, and roughly 50% of all small businesses throughout the country are considered home-based. That means about 15 million Americans are already running businesses from their kitchen tables, spare bedrooms and home offices.

Looking for the right home business idea? Our list covers 40 profitable options to get you started. Use it to find something that fits your skills and interests or let it spark ideas for your own unique venture.

Best 40 Businesses To Start From Home

There are many jobs you can do from home. To help you find the one that’s right for you, we’ve organized 40 of the best home business ideas into categories based on your skills and interests. These range from freelance writing and online courses to pet business opportunities, tutoring ventures and more.

Whether you’re looking for ideas that leverage technology, creative services or hands-on work, you’ll find possibilities that fit any background. Use these suggestions to start brainstorming or as a jumping-off place to generate your own perfect business idea.

Online and Digital Services

The digital economy has opened up countless opportunities for online businesses that can be run entirely from your computer. These digital services often require a minimal upfront investment and allow you to serve clients anywhere in the world.

Do you have a way with words? Companies, publishers and individuals constantly need skilled writers to help tell their stories and connect with audiences. As a freelance writer, you might draft blog posts, social media captions, video scripts, technical documents or even long-form articles for magazines. Strong research skills and a clear writing style can set you apart in this competitive field. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr and specialized job boards make it easier to find your first clients and build a portfolio you can grow from home.

2. Proofreading and Editing

If you hold strong opinions about things like the Oxford comma, freelance copy editing is a great way to put your passion for grammar to good use. Freelance copy editing is also one of the top small business ideas for home-based work. Copy editing is something that companies across all industries need. And the range of projects you can work on as a freelance copy editor can be diverse, ranging from book publishing, magazine articles, websites and corporate communications.

3. Virtual Assistant Services

Do you like to be organized? If daily planners are your thing and you have no trouble juggling your calendar, being a virtual assistant could be a fit for you. As a virtual assistant, you will do a multitude of smaller tasks that help keep your clients’ businesses on track. If tasks such as managing client calendars, sending emails, responding to invites, preparing documents and making calls sound like fun to you, becoming a virtual assistant is definitely a home business idea worth exploring.

4. Online Tutoring and Teaching

Do you have a teachable skill? With the rise in online platforms such as MyTutor, it’s never been easier to teach what you know by becoming an online tutor. And these days, you can teach just about any skill you’re an expert in. While the traditional academic subjects are still a big draw, as an online tutor, you can provide instruction in a wide range of subjects, from languages to abstract painting to mastering the culinary arts.

5. Social Media Management

It’s become increasingly important for businesses to have a social media presence on platforms such as Facebook or Instagram. But even though most businesses choose only one or two social media platforms to focus on, it still adds up to extra work. This means many businesses are willing to spend money on social media management. If you have a knack for writing social media posts that get a lot of engagement, becoming a social media manager may be right up your alley.

6. Online Course Creation

Are you knowledgeable in a subject that others want to learn? Turning your expertise into an online course is one of the most flexible home small business ideas, allowing you to share what you know while earning income from home. Courses can cover anything from cooking skills and photography to coding or personal finance. With tools like Teachable, Udemy and Skillshare, you can design lessons, upload materials and reach students worldwide. The key is to focus on a topic you understand deeply and present it in a clear, engaging format that keeps learners coming back.

7. Digital Marketer

Digital marketing has changed the marketing landscape for businesses across all sectors. And the demand for digital marketers continues to grow. Digital marketing encompasses a wide range of marketing activities such as content writing, search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising and social media marketing. This gives the freelance digital marketer the chance to focus on and develop expertise in specific niches within the digital marketing world.

8. Video Production/Editing

Short-form videos dominate social media feeds, while companies rely on longer pieces for training and promotion. That demand creates room for videography freelancers who can shoot, edit and package content that looks professional without a studio budget. You might cut together YouTube intros, refine product demos or handle post-production for independent creators. With the right tools and an eye for pacing, you can turn raw footage into polished stories clients are proud to share.

9. Podcasting/Podcast Editing

The podcast industry keeps expanding – and it’s not just about being the host with a microphone. Plenty of podcasters need behind-the-scenes help cleaning up audio, balancing levels and adding music that fits the mood. Others look for producers to shape episodes into something cohesive and engaging. If you know your way around editing software or you’re ready to learn, this can become a steady, at-home business that grows as the medium does.

10. Freelance Coder

If coding is one of your skills, becoming a freelance coder can be an ideal home business. You may be more used to employment with a software or tech firm, but developing software on a freelance basis gives you more flexibility in your workday. You’ll also get to experience a broad range of projects, which can help to expand your coding skills further. And the best part? Freelance coders have long been in demand, which will continue in our increasingly digital age.

11. Voiceover Services

Audiobooks, online courses, commercials and explainer videos all need strong narration. With a good microphone, a quiet recording space and basic editing skills, you can start offering professional-quality voiceover work from home. Many clients prefer voices that sound natural instead of overly polished, so there is demand for a wide range of tones and delivery styles. As you build a demo reel and gain experience, you can expand into specialized projects such as character voices, e-learning or corporate training materials.

12. Graphic Designer

Do you enjoy putting together eye-catching visuals? Like copywriters, freelance graphic designers are in high demand. Visuals are important for a company’s marketing, branding and communications campaigns. This means businesses across all industries are often in need of design work. And similar to copywriting, you can get started with design work through freelance design sites, like Behance.

13. Web Designer

Web design is a booming business these days since most companies need a website to succeed. As a web designer, you’ll design and update websites either by coding from scratch or using a web design platform, such as WordPress. If you have site coding skills or have experience with a web design platform, a web design company might be perfect for you.

14. Transcriptionist

Do your fingers fly over your keyboard? If you have a knack for transcribing words, being a transcriptionist might be just the thing for your new home-based business. Transcription services are always in high demand, and you can land jobs and clients in any number of different industries. And getting into the transcription biz has never been easier. You can begin making money as a transcriptionist on a number of transcription platforms, such as GMR Transcription.

Ecommerce & Product-Based Businesses

Ecommerce has lowered the barrier to entry for selling physical goods. With modern platforms handling storefronts, payments and shipping integrations, it’s possible to launch a shop from home and reach buyers worldwide. Some models keep costs low by outsourcing production, while others focus on curation and customer experience.

15. Dropshipping Store

In a dropshipping setup, you market products that are shipped directly from a supplier. You never hold inventory, which makes it an attractive model for first-time sellers who want to limit upfront costs. Success depends on building trust with customers, choosing dependable suppliers and finding products that fill a clear demand.

16. Print-on-Demand Shop

If you have an eye for design, a print-on-demand business allows you to turn artwork or slogans into merchandise like t-shirts, mugs and tote bags. Instead of printing in bulk, items are produced as orders come in, which minimizes risk and storage needs. The challenge lies in creating designs that resonate with your audience and standing out in a crowded marketplace.

17. Subscription-box Business

Subscription boxes combine curation and convenience, giving customers themed products on a recurring schedule. You might build a box around snacks, self-care items or niche hobbies, with the excitement of surprise driving repeat sales. Building a loyal subscriber base requires consistent quality and thoughtful packaging, but it also creates reliable recurring revenue.

18. Handmade Crafts Seller

Handmade goods carry a personal touch that mass-produced products can’t match. Items like art, ceramics, knitted pieces or home décor often appeal to buyers looking for something authentic. Marketplaces such as Etsy make it simple to set up shop and reach a global audience, while local fairs or community markets can help you connect with nearby customers. The key is to find a style or product line that reflects your skill and resonates with people who appreciate craftsmanship.

19. Reselling/Flipping Used Items Online

If you love hunting for bargains, reselling can turn that habit into a business. Thrift shops, garage sales and estate auctions are full of items that can be flipped for profit, from furniture and electronics to books and collectibles. Some pieces gain value with a little refurbishment, while others only need the right buyer. Platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Mercari make it simple to connect with those buyers and build a steady stream of sales.

20. Amazon FBA Private Label/Wholesale

Selling through Amazon FBA allows you to run an online store without handling storage or shipping yourself. Private label sellers create a product under their own brand, while wholesale sellers buy existing products in bulk to resell at a profit. In both models, Amazon takes care of warehousing and fulfillment, so your time goes into research, marketing and building a brand that stands out.

21. Candle-making

Candle-making is one of the more approachable crafts to start from home. With basic supplies, you can create small batches, refine your process and test what sells. Many makers begin by focusing on a single style or scent before expanding into broader collections, which helps build recognition and steady demand.

22. Jewelry-making Business

If you’re creative and enjoy making your own jewelry, becoming a jewelry maker might be the right business path for you. Whether you enjoy making bead bracelets and earrings or repurposing vintage jewelry, there’s a market of people who would enjoy wearing your creations. And with the rise of websites such as Etsy, you can easily set up an online storefront to display and sell your handcrafted wares.

23. Soap or Skincare Microbrand

Starting a soap or skincare brand often means turning your kitchen into a workshop. You’ll be melting oils, blending ingredients and waiting for batches to set. The work is part experimentation and part routine, as you test recipes until they feel consistent. Over time, what began as a few trial bars or jars can grow into a small operation that fills regular orders.

Personal Services

Not every home business is based on a screen or a storefront. Many people build a steady income by offering personal services that meet everyday needs, from pet care to fitness coaching. These types of businesses often rely more on trust and consistency than on equipment or startup capital, which makes them approachable for first-time entrepreneurs.

Home Daycare

A home daycare business is great if you enjoy taking care of children, particularly if you’re a parent who already stays home to look after your own children. Just be sure to check your local and state regulations and requirements before opening your doors. You may need to have certain credentials or apply for specific permits in order to run a daycare from your home.

25. Personal Chef or Meal-prep Service

If you already spend time in the kitchen, you can turn that skill into a service for people who don’t have the time to cook. As a private chef, some clients will want meals prepared in their homes, while others prefer packaged menus they can pick up or have delivered. You’ll handle the shopping and preparation, and over time you can tailor menus to fit dietary needs or personal preferences.

26. Event Planning

Event planners take on the details that make gatherings run smoothly. You might coordinate venues, manage vendors or build timelines that keep weddings, parties or corporate functions on track. The role requires communication and multitasking more than equipment, and success often comes down to being steady under pressure and keeping many moving parts aligned.

27. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking

Pets need care when their owners are busy or away, and that’s where you come in. A typical day for a pet sitter might mean walking a dog before work hours, feeding a cat at lunchtime or staying overnight when someone travels. The job is simple but carries responsibility. And being consistent is what earns trust and repeat clients.

28. Pet Groomer

Running a pet grooming business out of your home can be a great way to combine your love of dogs or cats with a profitable small business idea. As with some of the other ideas on this list, becoming a pet groomer will require a small investment in the right tools for the job. But armed with these tools, you’ll be in a good position to make back your investment during the early months of your business.

29. Virtual Personal Stylist/Image Consultant

Helping people refine their style can now be done entirely online. As a virtual stylist, you can start with a style-profile call to understand a client’s goals, budget and preferences. Next, ask for photos or a quick video of their wardrobe so you can see what they already own. From there, you’ll put together a digital lookbook with outfit ideas and a shoppable list that makes it easy to fill in the gaps. You can also offer seasonal refresh packages, checking in a few times a year to keep their look updated.

30. Hair Stylist

Many hair stylists run their own businesses out of their homes. Becoming a home hairdresser does require a small investment in the tools you’ll need to carry out the job. But if you have experience styling hair and enjoy the work, it’s an investment that will be well worth it. As with some of the other ideas on this list, running a hair styling business from your home may require a license. Be sure to check with your local and state regulations about any requirements you may have to meet.

31. Home staging business

If you enjoy rearranging rooms until they feel just right, staging homes could be a natural fit. Partnering with real estate agents brings steady work, and keeping a portfolio of before-and-after shots helps show your style. You’ll also need a plan for storing and moving furniture, since logistics are a big part of each project.

32. Professional organizer

A professional organizer helps people turn overwhelming rooms into orderly, usable spaces. Each client brings a different challenge – from cluttered closets to overflowing garages. The work involves creating a plan that matches their habits, sorting through what stays and leaves. Donation drop-offs or haul-away arrangements often become part of the service.

33. Photography Business

Running a photography business means choosing a focus and building your skills around it. Some specialize in product shots for brands, others in portraits of your pets or family — and you can do either right out of your home. More than just capturing images, much of the job is editing and preparing galleries so clients receive polished, ready-to-use results.

34. Virtual Personal Trainer

Do you enjoy helping people stay active and reach their goals? As a virtual personal trainer, you can work with clients over video, guiding them through routines designed for their fitness level and available space. Motivation and accountability are a big part of the role, and steady check-ins help clients see progress while you build a business from home.

35. Mobile Spa/Massage Therapy

Many people want the benefits of a spa but in a cozier setting. As a mobile provider, you bring massage or skincare treatments to clients in their own space, creating comfort and privacy they can’t get in a salon. Portable equipment and a professional setup turn each visit into a relaxing experience that encourages repeat bookings. And, of course, you can run your massage therapy business out of your home and have clients come to you too.

Consulting and Expert-Based

Your knowledge can be just as valuable as a product you sell. Many small businesses start with one person offering expertise in an area they already know well, from finance to HR to marketing. Consulting work often requires more communication than equipment, making it a good match for home-based professionals who want to turn skills into income.

36. Life and Career Coaching

As a life coach, you help clients work on personal growth by setting goals, building confidence and improving relationships. As a career coach, you focus on professional progress by guiding people through job searches, interview prep, promotions or career changes. Both paths let you work online or in person, giving you the flexibility to build a business around the kind of coaching you most enjoy providing.

37. Accounting

If you’re an accountant who’s tired of the nine-to-five grind of working for an accounting firm, you may want to begin working for yourself in a home business. As a professional with the proper credentials, being a freelance accountant lets you own your own business while still working with numbers. Of course, becoming a freelance accountant isn’t for everyone. But if you have the required certifications and training, setting up shop in your own home might be the way to go.

38. Translator

If you’re fluent in more than one language, setting up a home business as a freelance translator may be the ideal business for you. In today’s global environment, translation services are needed everywhere. This means there’s a broad range of freelance translation work available – from written work like articles and books to video and audio content, such as podcasts and closed captioning for audiovisual works.

39. Notary Public & Loan-Signing Agent

Do you enjoy detail-oriented work and the responsibility of handling legal documents? Becoming a notary means verifying identities and witnessing signatures on a wide range of paperwork. With additional certification, you can also take on loan signings, guiding clients through mortgage and real estate transactions. The work is steady and you decide how much or how little to schedule.

40.  Music Teacher

If you have musical experience or can play an instrument well, becoming a music teacher is a work-from-home idea that might be ideal for you. There are a number of ways you can offer your music teaching instruction. You can go the traditional route as a music teacher teaching in-person sessions out of your home. You can also offer your services as an online music teacher by using a tutoring platform or video conferencing software, such as Zoom.

How To Realize New Business Ideas From Home In Six Steps

If you’re not sure how to start your own business, you’re not alone. Knowing how to start a small business isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve compiled some preliminary steps you can take to help you get your home business off to a good start. While running a business from home doesn’t have to be complicated, it’s always a good idea to take the time to lay out the proper groundwork.

1. Choose Which Business To Start At Home

Start by taking inventory of your current skills and experience. Are you great at organizing? Consider becoming a professional organizer. Do you have a background in marketing? A consulting business could be perfect. The best business ideas combine what you’re good at with what people actually need.

Next, research the market demand in your area and online. Look at what competitors are charging and how they’re marketing their services. Check job boards and freelance sites to see what service-based business opportunities are in high demand. Think about profit margins too. Some businesses, like tutoring services, require minimal upfront investment, while product-based businesses may need more startup capital. The most successful business ventures solve real problems for people while playing to your natural strengths.

2. Develop a Business Plan

Starting a small business takes planning. It’s important to develop a business plan before you start investing your time and money into any home business ideas. Taking the time to put together a business plan helps you to:

• Clarify your idea
• Decide whether your idea is workable
• Figure out how much money you’ll need to get started
• Set long-term goals for your home business

Your business plan doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should cover the basics, like your target audience, marketing strategy and financial projections. Think of it as your roadmap to building a profitable small business.

3. Handle Registration, Licensing and Taxes

Before you start serving customers, you need to make your business legal. First, choose a business structure like a sole proprietorship, LLC or corporation. Each has different tax implications and liability protections, so research which works best for your situation.

Next, check if you need a business license for your type of work. Many service business operations require specific permits or certifications. Local businesses often need city or county licenses, while some professions, like tutoring or consulting, may need state licensing. Don’t forget to keep your personal and business finances separate by opening a business bank account and getting a business credit card. This makes tax time much easier and protects your personal assets.

4. Set Up a Dedicated Workspace

You should have space in your home that’s dedicated to working on your business only. For example, if you run your business from your kitchen table, then the table should only be used for work during business hours. Home business owners should set clear boundaries between their work and home life right from the start.

Once you know where your workspace will be, don’t forget to check on practical matters, such as how close you are to your Wi-Fi router or where the closest electrical outfit is near your desk. Solving issues upfront, like finding out how to have multiple devices plugged in if you only have one outlet, can save you headaches in the future.

5. Create Your Work-From-Home Schedule

Time management becomes particularly important when running a business from your home. One of the major pitfalls of working from home comes from the “home” aspect of a home business. Carving out a regular work schedule will help you make the most productive use of your time.

During your scheduled work time, make your business your top priority. This often means ignoring any potential home-related distractions that might come up. Giving in to such distractions can put a big dent in the time you’ve set aside for working on your business.

6. Launch, Market and Insure Your Business

Once you’ve handled the legal basics, it’s time to get customers. Start by creating a simple website or social media presence where potential clients can learn about your services. Focus on content marketing by sharing helpful tips and showcasing your expertise. This builds trust with your target audience without spending money on paid advertising right away.

Don’t overlook insurance for your new business. General liability insurance protects you from liability claims, which is especially important when you’re working directly with clients or in their homes. Others, like cleaning services or landscaping, may need additional coverage beyond basic liability. Contact your insurance agent to discuss what protection makes sense for your specific business model.

Benefits of Launching Work-From-Home Business Ideas

Running a business from home offers unique advantages that traditional brick-and-mortar operations simply can’t match. These benefits make home-based businesses an attractive option for new entrepreneurs looking to minimize risk while maximizing flexibility:

• Lower startup costs. A lease is one of the largest costs associated with starting up a new business. With a home-based business, you won’t need to lease dedicated office space. You also won’t need to pay separate utility bills for your business, making it easier to maintain minimal startup costs while building your online business.
• Be your own boss. Like all small business owners, running a home business means you are your own boss. You control your schedule, choose your clients and make all the strategic decisions that affect your steady income potential.
• No more commuting. One of the best things about starting a business from home is saying goodbye to your daily commute. When your office is steps away, you’ll save time and money, not to mention reducing your stress levels. This extra time can be reinvested into growing your business or achieving a better work-life balance.

These advantages make home-based businesses particularly appealing for entrepreneurs who want to test their small, at-home business ideas without the financial pressure of high overhead costs.

Next Steps for Your Home Business

Ready to decide which one of these ideas would be a good business to start for you? Starting a home business is one of the most rewarding ways to take control of your career and build something meaningful. You’ll join millions of Americans who’ve already become small business owners and discovered the freedom and flexibility that comes with running their own operations from home.

Before you launch, make sure you’ve covered the basics we outlined above: choose the right idea for your skills, create a solid business plan, handle the legal requirements and develop your marketing approach. Remember, even the best startup business ventures need the right foundation to succeed.

Once you’re up and running, protect your investment with the right small business insurance package. Your home-based business deserves the same level of protection as any traditional operation.

FAQ: Home Business Ideas