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75 Business Ideas for Women at Home (Ultimate List for Ladies PLUS Top Considerations)

August 30, 2024

cartoon of women with children

The best business ideas for women at home are:

  1. Local Lead Generation
  2. Freelance Illustrator
  3. Freelance Graphic Designer
  4. Ghost Writer
  5. Video Editor
  6. Podcast Producer
  7. Freelance Website Developer
  8. PR Agency
  9. Online Community
  10. Travel Agency

According to US Census Bureau, 53% of home-based workers are women. They work in various industries from managements, arts, sales and production. These data suggest that there are a lot of opportunity to earn for women at home. However, women reported high stress and depression working at home. According to McKinsey, only 37% of women have positive experience working at home. In contrast to 79% of men. This is because of the "unpaid work" which refers to women also managing their house. According to Action Aid UK, women spend almost 5 hours a day on unpaid work. 

In this article, we're listing 75 best business ideas for women at home. We're also covering potential income, demand and possible challenges of each business idea. We also listed 5 major considerations in choosing the best business for you. And finally, I'll introduce the top tier business idea for women at home that is profitable and low maintenance.

1. Local Lead Generation

Local lead generation is the best business idea for women at home because it is low maintenance and needs low startup cost. You can start local lead generation for as low as $500 and keep it running for $30 monthly. This cost already covers the website hosting and phone call software. Local lead generation uses local SEO, which isn't largely affected during algorithm updates. It doesn't require constant maintenance. So, once you rent out your ranking local lead gen website, the income turns passive. And according to Zippia, 1 out of 4 small and medium businesses in the US doesn't have a website. 

Local lead generation is creating websites for local businesses. Since you're getting organic traffic, you don't have to do paid ads. You can rent your websites for $2,000 to $3,000 per month. It has a 95% profit margin and 35% success rate. One drawback of this business idea is customer behavior. It works anywhere, unless locals in your place don't use Google as much. Although according to WebFX, 84% of people use Google search 3x a day.

2. Freelance Illustrator

A freelance illustrator is a good business idea for women at home because it offers flexible working conditions. Freelance illustrators can work as contractors or with agencies. Regardless, they’re not required to report to offices for their output. A freelance illustrator works with clients for visual content. These are used for animations, marketing and packaging. According to Hubspot, social media posts with images have 650% higher engagement. Thus, 73% of brands are investing in graphic designs as per Graphically. It's no wonder there is a rise in demand for illustrators. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects a 7% increase in artist employment.

Freelance illustrating has a low-overhead cost. You wouldn’t need a studio or employees. The most pressing materials you need to get the work done costs around $3,000. This cost includes the hardware like laptop, printer and scanner. The software needed to create digital illustration is included too. Most illustrators use Adobe’s Creative Cloud Bundle which costs $600 per year. You would want to keep some for non-digital materials you use like brush and canvas. And $500 or more for setting up your website and marketing. According to Linearty, freelance illustrators earn $65,031 per year on average. But since the work hours are flexible, this figure can still increase by 6.06%.

3. Freelance Graphic Designer

A freelance graphic designer is a great business idea for women at home because they can work on multiple projects simultaneously. It will take excellent time management, but not impossible. In fact, 9 out of 10 graphic designers worldwide are freelancers. Freelance graphic artists set up their own contracts, rates and work hours. And there is a demand for graphic artists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects 22,800 graphic design job openings every year. Freelance graphic designers develop visual assets for physical and digital marketing. They work to create their client’s vision into a visual reality. According to Piktochart, 81% of businesses use graphic designs in various formats. And Zippia reported 5 out of 10 SMBs put graphic design as “very important” for success. 

Jessica Walsh is a successful graphic designer. She founded the creative firm &Walsh in 2019. Since then, she worked with major brands like Levis and The New York Times. Jessica is also a partner and co-founder of Sagmeister and Walsh. It's a creative company working on commercials, films, and books.

Currently, there are 133,551 graphic design businesses in the US. It can indicate tight competition. However, BLS reported the average graphic designer in the US earns $31.01 per hour. It can get as high as $75 per hour. On average, it is $64,500 per year. And to start a graphic design business, you'll need around $2,000 to $10,00, according to Entrepreneur. Graphic design computers cost between $775 to $5,000 and Adobe Creative Cloud costs $33.99 per month. There are free sites to make your own portfolio like Wix, or pay $226+ for SquareSpace. Pantone Color Matching System is advisable to have and it costs $570. Most brands follow strict HEX codes you can find in the matching system. You might also have to get a business license depending on your state. The biggest drawback of being a graphic designer is the unstable paycheck. Work depends on the clients, so you're constantly on the lookout for them. It's highly prone to the “feast or famine” condition.

4. Ghostwriter

A ghostwriter is a great business option for women at home because it has low startup costs. It doesn’t require specific computer specs so you can start for as low as $62, as per Stater Story. This cost includes a DIY website, domain name and internet connection. Ghostwriters write texts for other people and typically sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Kary Oberbrunner said only 1% of celebrities, politicians and athletes write their memoirs. 99% of them hire a ghostwriter’s service.

However, ghostwriting is a competitive industry. According to Semrush, 49% of businesses prefer to outsource content creation. But not all of them are openly posted on job marketplaces. It’s advised to join professional associations like National Association of Independent Writers and Editors or The Association of Ghostwriters. Membership fees for these associations are less than $100.

5. Video Editor

A video editor business idea is excellent for women at home who prefer to work independently. Video editors turn raw footage into one cohesive video or film. They can work on production and post-production just with an outline and a script. There is a continuous rise in demand for video editors. According to hubspot, 90% of people want brand and business videos. So, in 2023, 86% of businesses use videos for their marketing campaigns.

According to Side Hustle Nation, a full-time video editor earns $52,000 per year. Although Careers in NZ reported some film and video editors earn $100,000 a year. But video editing requires more startup capital. Video editors typically use specialized software. There are free options like DaVinci, but paid software provides more features. Zapier ranked Adobe Premiere Pro as the best paid video editing software. It costs $275.88 per year. And these software usually need powerful hardware specifications. According to Starter Story, the average cost to start video editing is $17,491 and can go up to $33,558.

6. Podcast Producer

A podcast producer is a suitable business idea for women at home since it grants complete control over the product. Podcast producers are involved in all aspects of podcasting, from topics to marketing. According to Edison Research, 41% of Americans listen to podcasts monthly. And these listeners have an average of $100,000 household income. They have disposable income for products and services you can advertise on podcasts. In fact, Modern Retail reported 6 out of 10 listeners bought something based on podcast ads.

According to Zip Recruiter, podcast producers have an income potential of $50,000. Although Bunny Studio said it can go up to $132,000 per year. This is a business idea you can start with $500 up to $5,000. You’ll require recording set-up and recording software like Adobe Audition or Audacity. One significant drawback is competition. According to Social Shepherd, there are 4.5 million podcasts registered worldwide. It’s advisable to find a profitable niche topic you’re interested in. It’s also a challenge to regularly produce quality content.

7. Freelance Web Developer

A freelance web developer is a good business idea for women at home because web developers work on a project basis. This gives them the freedom to manage their schedule and choose projects they want to work on. Web developers are experts in either the front-end, back-end or full-stack web development. According to Glassdoor, web developers’ annual average income is $73,056. And $56,855 for entry-level web developers.

There is a demand for web developers. According to the BLS, there will be 34,700 job openings in a year. SilverXis reported 7 out of 10 businesses invest in good website design to stand out in the market. It also caters to the 27% of businesses which don't have a website yet, as per Hostinger. However, Starter Story concluded web developers will spend $12,272 to start. You’ll also face competition since there are 27.7 million web developers worldwide, according to Colorlib. It’s advisable to master one web development area to be an expert in that niche.

8. PR Agency

A PR agency is a great business idea for women at home since it focuses on helping businesses build positive reputation. They can track brand reputation from reviews and help secure product spotlight. Especially since Edelman’s study showed 81% of customers need to trust a brand before they buy from it. Additionally, Bright Local reported 87% of businesses said good reputation is very important for success. No wonder the average annual income of a PR agency owner is $123k to $210k as per Fin Models Lab.

According to Avaan Media, it costs $15,000 to $17,500 to start a PR agency. You'll have to build a team to handle crisis management and PR and content strategy. However, one of the biggest challenges in the PR industry is the demand. According to Truelist, only 46% of large businesses work with their PR. 71% of them prioritize email marketing and social media management. Although Statista reported the tech industry is a good target market for PR firms. Another challenge for PR agencies is building relations with journalists. According to Truelist, 59% of PR agents struggle with getting responses from journalists.

9. Online Community

An online community is a suitable business idea for women at home because it focuses on shared interest. They can find a niche market and organize online events and workshops for the members. Case in point, Monica Lent created the community, Blogging for Devs. And reached $5k in revenue in her first week. She created the community for web developers like her who also run a blog. According to Monica, they have accountability groups and members-only content.

Businesses also started to see the benefit of running an online community. According to Forrester, 60% of businesses already have a branded community. Peer Board’s survey said 65% of businesses will increase their budget for communities. And to start an online community, you’ll need between $12 to $11,659. Monica built her own community using SaaS tools, and it costs her $300 per month. 

The major challenge in opening an online community is keeping your members engaged. In fact, 55% of community professionals said it's their biggest concern. 40% of them struggle with the manual operations of communities, as per Sell Courses Online. You’ll have to ensure you provide quality content to keep your community members engaged.

10. Travel Agency

A travel agency is an ideal business idea for women at home, especially for those who like to travel. Travel agencies work for suppliers like hotels and airlines. They arrange logistics, provide itinerary and organize trips for travelers. It’s like recommending the best places to visit to interested travelers. According to Up Metrics, you can start a travel agency at home with $10,000. This startup cost includes your business website, insurance and supplier agreements. Travelers shifted to 

A travel agency earns an average of $26,500 per week, according to Starter Story. But a travel agency owner can earn as much as $124k per year. A drawback is big competition like Airbnb and Expedia. According to Travel Pulse, Millennials plan to travel the most among any generation. And 64% of Millennials book their travels through travel websites. Only 24% go through travel agencies. It’ll require you to offer better deals and travel packages, so you’ll stand out in this competitive field.

11. Coach

Being a coach is a good business idea for women at home who specialize in a field or profession. Coaches guide a person or group of people to achieve their goal in specific fields. They provide support and strategies. Coaching is a lucrative business. According to the Coaching Federation, it has a 221% return on investment. ICF Global Coaching also reported 90% of certified coaches in 2019 are still active today. BJ O’neal told Forbes that high-performing coaches can earn $5,000 to $10,000 per client.

According to the Coach Foundation, $22,173 is the average cost to start a coaching business. It includes business permits, marketing and licensing. That said, the coaching industry can also be competitive. According to Research and Markets, there are 128,000 health coaches in the US.

12. Create Online Course

Creating an online course is a great business idea for women at home since it requires less effort over time. According to Whop, it takes 180-360 hours to produce a 1-hour learning material. After that initial time investment, you’ll just have to update it every 3 months. But the same study showed 52% of course creators said their biggest challenge is generating leads. So, 70% of course creators engage their audience via social media, as per Kajabi. You have to keep your courses and students updated to stay profitable in this industry.

According to Devlin Peck, online courses have the fastest growing market. The potential income of an online course is $1,000 to $10,000 per month. And Sell Courses Online reported it can get as high as $50k monthly. Although it takes just as much to produce an elearning material. In fact, it costs $4,000 to $10,000 to produce an hour of course content. The industry is also getting competitive. Freedom Bound Business’s research showed there are 50,000 online courses today.

13. Content Creator

Being a content creator is an ideal business idea for women at home especially those interested in lifestyle content. For example, Bethany Mota got 9.43 million subscribers on YouTube, creating content on lifestyle and fashion. Then she went on to have her own tours and clothing line from Aéropostale. Content creators make educational or entertaining content for public distribution. While not all content creators can be Bethany Mota, Vdo Cipher reported 41% make $50k annually.

Businesses also started working with content creators to market their products and services. As per Siege Media, 6 out of 10 businesses are increasing their content marketing budget in 2024. However, with that demand comes competition. According to Linktree, there are 207 million content creators in the world. Yet only 2 out of 5 content are monetized. It takes consistent and quality content to build a following.

14. Online Store

An online store is a great business idea for women at home because they can manage it remotely. Online stores provide a catalog of products that customers can purchase virtually. According to BigCommerce, 75% of people shop online every month. Seller Commerce is expecting 2 out of 5 retail purchases to happen online by 2027. Buying on online stores is becoming the norm after the pandemic. According to Projection Hub, the average revenue of a sole proprietorship store in the US is $52,953 per year.

With this potential, many people jumped on this business idea. Grit Global reported there are 26.5 million stores online. So, it gets really competitive to be profitable. You might not have to worry about rent for a brick and mortar store, but you’ll deal with shipping costs. 25% of online merchants say that is their biggest challenge. Online stores also suffer from abandoned carts with no salespeople to push for the purchase. According to Baymard Institute, 7 out of 10 carts are abandoned.

15. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing is a great idea for women at home especially those who like reading and writing. A freelance writer creates written contents like articles, scripts and advertisements. According to Upwork, it is the most popular freelance job and writers can charge $19 to $45 per hour. The BLS also expects continuous increase in demand for freelance writers. 5,900 job openings are expected per year. 

Freelance writing is especially in demand in marketing. According to the Content Marketing Institute, 7 out of 10 B2B companies use content marketing to drive sales and generate leads. SEMrush’s study also revealed 97% of marketers say they succeeded because of content marketing. According to Statista, there are 59 million freelance writers in the US. While this means the industry is stable enough, it also means tight competition. Another drawback of freelance writing is the lack of benefits. You’ll have to look after your own health insurance and retirement savings.

16. Bookkeeper

A bookkeeper is an ideal business option for women at home, especially for those who enjoy keeping track of their finances. Bookkeepers record and update financial transactions of businesses. They also generate financial statements, such as the balance sheet and income statement. According to Onpay, 70% of small businesses don’t have accountants. And Clutch reported 37% of businesses outsourced accounting services. These data present a clear gap that a bookkeeping business can fill. 

The US News Ranking ranked bookkeeping as 11th best business job. And ZipRecruiter reported the average income of a bookkeeper can range from $35k to $55k per year. But the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed bookkeeping agency owners earn over $100k. That said, being a bookkeeper can take more time than others. You’ll have to get a bookkeeping license or certificate, and learn how to use accounting softwares. The Bookkeeping Mavericks estimates the startup cost to be between $10,000 to $40,000.

17. Social Media Manager

A social media manager is a good business idea for women at home who are updated on social media trends. Social media management involves creating and scheduling content to grow an audience. Their main goal is to drive engagement and build a loyal following. Entrepreneur.com reported 97% of Fortune 500 companies rely on social media marketing. There is a demand for the role. And the BLS expects 31,100 job openings for social media managers per year.

Social media managers earn between $35,000 to $80,000. Although the top 10% earn more than $81,000 annually, according to Springboard. To start a social media manager business, you’ll need $5,911 on average, according to Starter Story. The biggest challenge of this business is the consistency. People want something new posted regularly. On top of that, they expect the content to be up to date on any new social media feature.

18. Tutoring

Tutoring is a great business idea for women at home who like to be around and teach children. This gives them the opportunity to provide academic support and help students understand their learning process. In the US, Gitnux reported 50% of families hired a tutor for their children. Furthermore, 25% of high school students hire tutors for college admission. Tutoring has a wide age range of market. On average, every household spends $2,500 on tutors every year.

According to the BLS, 31,900 jobs are expected to open per year for tutors. The Enterprise League reported tutors can earn between $30k to $100k. Although only professional tutors and certified teachers earn on the high end. So if you want to increase your income, you’ll have to put in time to be a professional tutor or get certifications. Currently, there are 182,172 tutors in the US as per Data USA. And to start tutoring, you’ll need $2,000 to $10,000 capital. This cost covers your online tutor website and tutoring software.

19. Virtual Assistant

Being a virtual assistant is a suitable business idea for women at home because of its work flexibility. According to Zipdo, 92% of virtual assistants are highly satisfied with the work flexibility. Virtual assistants provide administrative services remotely. They handle emails, schedule meetings and appointments and do basic bookkeeping. Virtual assistants typically support a company or executive’s specific needs. According to Prialto, 35% of top executives have a trusted virtual assistant.

Wix reported it costs $500 to $3,000 to start being a virtual business. The cost covers internet, project management tools and website setup. According to Taskdrive, the estimated number of virtual assistants is 40 million worldwide. And virtual assistants earn an average of $30,000 to $50,000 per year, according to Salary.com. However, virtual assistants in the legal field earn $72,801 per year. Because the work is done remotely, you’re competing on a global scale. So, it’s advisable to master a skill set for a niche like legal administration.

20. Blogging

Blogging is a great business idea for women at home who like to write about their interests. Blogging is creating articles published on a website. They typically use informal language, providing personal opinion and information on current events. For this reason, blogs have a high engagement rate. And businesses are leveraging this for their digital marketing. In fact, 90% of marketers use blogs for their marketing strategy. Bloggers like Ana of The She Approach work with businesses to diversify their income. She uses affiliate marketing, sponsored posts and places ads on her website. Ana detailed in her Blogging Income Report video how she earned $250,000 from blogging in 5 years.

Blogging has low startup costs. You can start one with $50 to $200, and it takes $20 to $60 to maintain every month. It’s always advisable to start a blog about your interest because it takes time to be profitable. According to Productive Blogging, it takes bloggers 21 months on average to earn a dollar. It's also a challenge to compete with 600 million blogs worldwide, as per Tech Business News.

21. Life Coach

A life coach is a great business idea for women because they can help people achieve their goals. Life coaching involves guiding people to develop skills and set goals. It also has a high success rate for students. According to the International Coaching Federation (ICF), 7 out of 10 people who hired a life coach said they achieved their goals. And 96% of them will do it again. Hence, life coaches earn $62,500 on average per year. Although it can get as high as $94,000 in cities like New York.

To start a life coach business, you’ll need $2,500 to $12,000, according to Forbes. This cost is for certifications and setting up your own website. However, there are 51,446 life coaches in the US, according to Ibis World. The ICF reported it is a 33% increase since 2015. 

22. Dropshipping Business

Dropshipping business is an ideal business idea for women at home since it doesn't need storage space. You can put up an ecommerce store and send every sale to a 3rd party supplier. Then, they'll deliver the product to the customer. You act as a middleman between the customer and the manufacturer. According to Growth Deal, 51% of people continued shopping online after the pandemic. With 27% of retailers using dropshipping, it's a business that's likely here to stay.

According to Dropshipping Hustler, dropshipping business owners average $2,000 to $10,000 per month. And you can start dropshipping at a really low cost. As per Forbes, you can start with $100, so it's advisable for anyone looking for a bootstrap venture. However, Amazon is strict about dropshipping. You'll have to provide documentation and proof or else your account will be suspended. Dropshipping also has a low success rate. According to Dropship, 90% fail.

23. Instagram Influencer

An Instagram influencer is a great business idea for women at home who like to create content for an audience. Instagram influencers build a following through niche content. Famous niches are fashion, health, travel and life hacks. Once they’ve built credibility, they can partner with brands for sponsored contents. According to For Creators, influencers with 100k followers can get $2,000 per post. While those with less than 10k followers get $88 per post on average.

In 2023, Hubspot reported 2 out of 5 markers worked with Instagram influencers. In 2024, 4 out of 5 marketers are planning to work with Instagram influencers, as per Sprout Social. The sudden increase suggests it’s an effective marketing channel for businesses. But it’s not without challenges. According to the Charle Agency, it’s a struggle to keep up with Instagram trends. They can change daily. And the space can be saturated. There are 500k active influencers in Instagram, as per Sprout Social.

24. Proofreader

A proofreader is a good business idea for women at home who have a keen eye on grammar and spelling. Proofreaders are the editors before a written content gets published. They focus on grammar, punctuation, and spelling. According to College Raptor, there is an expected 5% increase in job openings for proofreaders. Payscale reported an average proofreader earns $18.90 per hour. However, the top 10% earn as much as $119,000 per year.

Customers trust a business with flawless content. In fact, Proofed’s survey revealed 97% of people said grammar mistakes damage a company’s image to them. The bounce rate also increases. Website Planet said it goes up to 85% when people spot a spelling error. Currently, there are 5,321 proofreaders in the US. And one challenge of this business idea is finding work. It takes time to build credibility and connections for stable client work.

25. Amazon FBA Business

An Amazon FBA business is an ideal business idea for women at home interested in a retail shop. The Amazon store is a marketplace where you can set up your own shop. And you can tap into the 310 million customer base of Amazon worldwide. According to Edesk, Amazon is also the default choice for online shopping. 89% trust Amazon more than other ecommerce sites. Amazon sellers can earn $10,000 per month, according to Fit Small Business.

You can start an Amazon FBA business with $5,000. The cost includes Amazon seller fees, marketing, inventory and product samples. A drawback of this business idea is competition and slim profit margin. There are 2.5 million sellers on Amazon. Amazon is also a competitor with other e-commerce giants like Walmart and Target. In fact. 50% of sellers said Amazon is releasing products that directly compete with theirs.

26. Transcription

Transcription is a great business idea for women at home who enjoy listening to podcasts. Transcriptionists convert audio or video files into written content. According to Ditto transcripts, there is an increase in demand for transcriptionists. It’s expected to have 17% annual growth. On top of that, the American Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to provide equal access to information. Accurate transcriptions are needed to comply with this regulation. 

According to Zippia, transcriptionists can earn $0.30 to $1 per audio minute. Rev, a transcription business, pays $0.69 to $0.72 per audio minute. You’ll typically have to take transcription and grammar quizzes. According to Zippia, there are 51,222 transcriptionists in the US today. And the top challenge they face is background noise. It makes words inaudible and can confuse transcriptionists. To thrive in this industry, you should be accurate.

27. Teach English

Teaching English is a great business idea for women at home who have a passion for helping others improve their skills. This involves grammar and literature. According to the Wall Street English survey, 73% believed English is a necessity because of globalization. Furthermore, the Washington Post estimates 1.5 billion people are English learners. There is a stable demand for teachers of English. 

According to the International TEFL Academy, you can earn $10 to $40 per hour teaching English. Although you’ll have to be fluent or Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) certified for the higher income rate. TEFL certifications means you’re equipped with the methods, theories and skills to teach the language. You can join companies that connect you to learners around the globe. According to TEFL Iberia, there are 250,000 people teaching English worldwide.

28. Consulting

Consulting is a good business idea for women at home who are experts in their profession. Consulting is giving advice and expertise to a business. Consultants typically offer advice on strategy, operational improvement, and marketing. According to Hubspot, there is an 11% increase in the demand for consultants. And among the businesses who hire consultants, 65% are repeat clients. American Express Small Business Monitor also stated 7 out of 10 small businesses who hired consultants saw significant improvement.

To start a consulting business, you’ll need $5,000 to $10,000 capital, according to Consulting Mavericks. This cost includes the software, business license and marketing needed to get started. Currently, there are 610,454 consultants in the US. Their biggest challenge is the lack of a fixed work schedule. You might get consulted even on weekends or birthdays.

29. Sell Art on Etsy

To sell art on Etsy is a good business idea for artistic women at home because it doesn’t require their constant attention. They can put up their art on Etsy while they focus on creating more art. They can also partner with a print-on-demand company to fulfill merch orders. It’s also becoming normal to buy art online, instead of local showrooms. According to Artsy, 8 out of 10 art collectors bought art online in the past 12 months. Furthermore, 90% of next generation collectors are already comfortable buying art online. 

An amateur artist can earn $100 to $500 per art piece. And considering artists create 25 to 50 artworks a year, they can earn up to $25k a year. However, according to Contemporary Art Issue, only 17% of artists reach $25k a year. Even lower, only 10% of artists make $100k annually. It's not a very lucrative business idea and more suitable as a side-hustle. One of its biggest challenges is the saturation in the market. According to Contemporary Art Issue, there are 5 million active artists in the world. Thus, there are 125-250 million artworks produced every year. But the Contemporary Art Issue stated 99% of collectors are onetime buyers.

30. Customer Service

Customer service is a good business idea for women at home who are skilled at building rapport. They can provide support to customers before, during and after the purchase. And since it can be done through emails, calls, or texts, it’s a job they can do at home. According to Zendesk, 80% of businesses are increasing their customer experience budget. And another 35% will add more channels for customers to connect with them. It's an important part of business today. Especially since PwC's research revealed 73% of customers consider customer experience before buying.

According to Glassdoor, customer service representatives earn $39,502 per year on average. However, the biggest drawback of this business idea is challenging customers. It's impossible not to encounter these customers. So, customer service representatives are prone to stress and burnout. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 5% employment decline for customer service representatives. You'll have to be a skilled communicator to stay competitive in the industry.

31. Candle Making

Candle making is a great business idea for women at home, especially those skilled with handicraft. Candle making entails creating candles using different materials and techniques. You can add fragrance and color, and mold them into different shapes and sizes. It's both a decorative and functional piece that 70% of US households use, as per Wax Melters. In fact, 4 out of 5 households reported they use candles twice or more a week. It's no wonder the candle making business has a 50% gross margin, according to Up Flip.

According to Comparably, candle making business owners' average income is $64,120. To start candle making, you'll need $9,500 to $78,000. This cost includes supplies and equipment needed. As well as business permits, marketing and insurance. It's also worth noting there are 400 commercial and religious candle makers in the US as per Wax Melters. You'll likely have to compete with these established brands. It becomes a challenge since customers pick familiar brands when there are a lot of options.

32. Organizational Expert

Being an organizational expert is a suitable business idea for women at home skilled at organizing spaces. An organizational expert gives personalized advice to declutter and optimize living spaces. According to the Western University of Canada, the physical environment has a direct influence on productivity. And Book Clean Go reported 54% of Americans are overwhelmed at their home clutter. 

According to Zippia, an organizational expert can earn $38,000 to $63,000 per year. Currently, there are 41,503 organizational experts in the US. And one drawback of this business is it takes time. You’ll have to study the house space and declutter in the most efficient way. But also tailor the organization to your customer’s lifestyle and personality.

33. Podcast

Starting a podcast is a good business idea for creative women at home who don't want to show their face. Podcasts are designed like radio programs available on demand. They’re downloadable or can be streamed. According to Social Shepherd, 100 million people listen to podcasts. And marketers leverage that for their businesses. Backlinko’s survey showed 50% of them use podcasts for marketing.

However, you’ll have to worry about market saturation. There are thousands of podcasts launched every day. According to Podcast Insight, over 2 million podcasts are active today. Demand Sage reported podcasts earn between $50 to $1000 a month. But redditor jonkl91 said some people earn $100k per year. It depends on the quality of your podcast and the streams of income you can get out of it. Sponsorships, affiliate marketing and ads are few podcast income stream examples.

Alexandra Cooper is the host of the popular podcast show, Call Her Daddy. Alexandra started the podcast in 2018 and talks about relationships and mental health. She signed an exclusive deal with Spotify for $60 million in 2021. She was also named the most successful woman in podcasting by Time Magazine. In 2024, Alexandra signed a new deal with Sirius XM for $125 million. She's also earning from her merchandise and sponsorships.

34. Start a YouTube Channel

Starting a YouTube channel is a great business idea for women at home who want a larger audience than podcasts. According to Marketing Charts, 82% of US adults use YouTube every day. They average 49 minutes of watch time per day. Social Sprout reported 7 out of 10 marketers say it’s an essential channel for marketing. So, starting a YouTube channel can be lucrative because of its monetization options.

It can cost $100 to $1,250 to start a YouTube channel. The cost covers editing software, equipment and marketing. It’s lower than other business ideas, but it’s also more competitive. According to Wyzowl, there are 114 million active channels on YouTube. And YouTube only pays $10,000 to $30,000 for a video with 1 million views. It also takes significant effort. You’ll have to regularly publish videos to stay relevant on YouTube’s algorithm.

35. Vintage Reseller

Being a vintage reseller is a good business idea for women at home with an eye for fashion. Vintage items are typically over 20 years old, with a unique and timeless quality. Although they’re not just clothes, it can also be jewelry and accessories. According to Emarsys, 3 out of 5 US consumers buy vintage items regularly. Also, 77% of Gen Z only buy from sustainable brands. So there is a shift in the demand for vintage items.

According to Starter Story, a vintage reseller’s average gross margin is 40%. It’s high enough to manage and scale the business. But according to the US Census, there are 25,000 resale and not-for-profit resale shops in the US. It’s also always a risk that you’re not getting the actual value of the item. If you put a high price, people won’t purchase it. If you put it up on resale sites like RealReal, you’ll only get 85% of the sale.

36. Voice Actress

Voice actress is a suitable business idea for women at home with great voice control and diction. Voice actresses perform for characters in animated films, video games and commercials. But you can also do voice overs for public transportation, or book narrations. According to Zippia, there is an 8% increase in demand for voice actresses. Atlanta Voice Over Studio reported 50% of brands hire voice actors once a month. The other 50% hire voice actors every 3 months.

Voice actresses can earn between $30,000 to $106,000 per year according to Voice 123. Although it depends on your qualifications. There is no formal education needed to be a voice actress. But you can take classes to learn more and build your own demo reels. These classes range between $150 to $2,000, and can be completed online. One challenge of voice actresses is vocal fatigue. Voice over recording sessions are flexible, but they can be long.

37. Data Entry

Data entry is a suitable business idea for women at home skilled at handling computers. Data entry requires adding, verifying and processing data in a computer system. It’s an important job for businesses since 66% of executives decide based on data, as per Edge Delta. Furthermore, 49% of businesses reported data processing helped them make better business decisions. Data entry jobs earn $44,554 per year, according to the Alberta Government.

There is no formal education needed to become a data entry clerk. But you can get the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) from the International Association of Administrative Professional (IAAP). It has data entry clerk components to help you get more skilled. Currently, there are 139,306 data clerks in the US, according to Docu Clipper. It is a competitive field. Data entry clerks are also expected for an average of 40 words per minute.

38. Grant Writing Services

Grant writing services are a great idea for women at home because it can be done remotely and offers work flexibility. It entails writing grant proposals passed on government agencies, trusts and organizations. According to the BLS, there will be 15,00 job openings for grant writing per year in organizations. It’s an estimated 1.5 million non-profit organizations that rely on US government grants. The Grant Station stated organizations hire 2 writers for grant writing and submission.

According to Payscale, grant writing service owners earn $55,000 per year on average. However, there are 10,546 grant writers in the US today. It’s a small number compared to the market. But your success depends on how many of the grant proposals you wrote will get accepted. And according to the Professional Grant Writer, only 1 out of 10 grant proposals is approved. You’ll have to constantly know each grantor’s specific requirement.

39. Make and Sell Gift Baskets

To make and sell gift baskets is a good business idea for women at home who are skilled at choosing gifts. This business focuses on selling custom gift baskets on special occasions. The gift baskets are usually tailored to the receiver’s preferences. In 2023, Gift Rabbit stated 61% of people bought a gift basket online. Not just that, you can also partner with big businesses. The Goodness Project reported 55% of businesses use corporate gifts as tools for product and service awareness.

According to the Gift Basket Business, you’ll need $10,000 to start a gift basket business. That includes the packaging, storage boxes and supplies. According to How to Start an LLC, you can earn as much as $82,125 per year if you sell 5 gift baskets per day. This gift basket business idea also has a low profit margin. Starter Story stated it’s around 25% which makes the business hard to scale.

40. Sell Essential Oils Business

To sell essential oils is a great business idea for women at home interested in aromatherapy and its health benefits. The Business Insider reported 34% of Americans believe essential oil's health benefits. And Grandview Research expects the demand to increase by 7.5%. The profit margin for selling essential oils is at 30% to 50%, according to Bluecart. So, it's a profitable business idea. In fact, successful essential oil business owners generate $50,000 to $200,000 a year, as per Fin Models Lab. 

To start selling essential oils, you'll need $8,000 to $20,000. This startup depends on your location and the scale of your business. It'll cover equipment, packaging and marketing. You can cut on cost if you extract the essence yourself. Although that takes more time and effort. It’s also a difficult business idea to scale.

41. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a great business idea for women at home capable of building an audience. Affiliate marketing is earning commission at promoting other company’s products or services. The larger the audience you build, the bigger the commission you can earn. According to Influencer Marketing Hub, an average affiliate marketer earns $60,000 a year. And WP Beginner stated the top 10% affiliates earn $73,000 per year. 

Affiliate marketing is a staple in digital marketing. In fact, 80% of businesses have affiliates as reported by Forrester Research. And according to WP Beginner, 40% of them go out of their way to find affiliates. The biggest challenge of doing affiliate marketing is generating traffic. According to Affiliate WP, 45% of affiliates struggle with it. Moreover, it’s highly competitive. The average conversion rate of affiliates is 0.5%.

Marie Forleo was a blogger turned best-selling author of Everything is Figureoutable. She now hosts MarieTV on YouTube and Marie Forleo Podcast on Spotify. Marie earns from affiliate marketing and sponsorships. She also runs her own affiliate program for her training program, B School.

42. Resume Writing Business

Resume writing business is a good business idea for women at home with a passion for helping others. Resume writing is helping job seekers highlight their relevant skills to hiring managers. According to Starter Story, 68% of job seekers who hired a resume writer got hired within 90 days. Management Consulted revealed 80% secured at least an interview. It’s a business idea that yields results for the clients and the business owners. According to Starter Story, resume writing service has a gross margin of 70%.

Fin Models Lab reported the start up cost for a resume writing business is between $10,000 to $50,000. It will depend on the scale of the business. But the cost includes website development, marketing and business permits. It also covers research and development of resume templates per industry. According to Pro Business Plan, resume writers usually charge $150 to $300 per resume which is 30,000 to $100k a year.

43. Sell Stock Images

To sell stock images is a suitable business idea for women at home with an eye for photography. You can sell the images to stock image websites like Pexels or Shutterstock. You’ll either get paid right away or receive royalty every download of the image. According to Hostinger, photo-selling websites offer 15% to 60% share in revenue. There is always a demand for stock photos because of marketing. Scott Max reported the market has a steady 5% growth every year. Furthermore, 42% of marketers said stock photos are their most used visual content.

To start selling stock images online, you’ll need at least $5,000. This cost covers the editing software, camera and storage. Although the average income of a professional photographer is $500 to $1,000 per month. According to Imglarger, it’ll take 3 to 5 years to get to the $500 per month mark. On top of that, there are 2.3 billion stock photos online. You’ll need to find a profitable niche to get consistent income.

44. Freelance Photographer

Being a freelance photographer is a good business idea for women at home because it offers work-life balance. Freelance photographers are independent contractors. They can arrange their schedules and most photoshoots are outdoors. They are also in demand. According to Zippia, there are 11,200 new jobs every year and a 21% salary increase. Venngate’s study showed 50% of marketers think visual content is important. And they use visuals in all their contents.

To start being a freelance photographer, you’ll need equipment and web hosting. According to Pay, it can cost around $5,000. But freelancing as a photographer is hard work. You’ll have to be the editor, curator, printer and contract negotiator. You’ll also be competing with 9,203 freelance photographers in the US. Another challenge of being a freelance photographer is the lack of stability. You’ll have to continuously find clients and there are no employee benefits.

45. Interior Designer

Being an interior designer is a great business idea for women at home with a talent for space utilization. Interior design focuses on visually appealing, safe and functional use of spaces. According to Minia University’s study, a well-designed space increases productivity by 33%. And Zippia stated American renovate their homes every 3 to 5 years. My Future is expecting 9,000 job openings per year.

You don’t need a degree to be an interior designer. Although some states require certifications like California, Nevada and Louisiana. You’ll need $8,500 to start an interior design business. The cost covers website setup, design software and business permits. According to Foyr, interior designers generate $25,000 to $86,000 per year. The challenge of this business is the long hours. According to Houzz Pro, 59% of interior designers work 50 hours a week to meet their client’s needs. 

Kelly Wearstler is a successful interior designer. Kelly is one of Architectural Digest's Hall of Fame in 2021. She founded her design firm in 1995. She first worked with hotels and eventually expanded to commercial and residential spaces. Kelly also sells her own design furniture.

46. Yoga Instructor

Being a yoga instructor is a great business idea for women at home who are trained fitness professionals. Yoga instructors are certified teachers that teach proper breathing, form and poses. According to Harvard University, 36 million Americans regularly practice yoga. Americans spend $1,000 per year on yoga, as per Yoga Vidya School. According to Medline, Americans do yoga as an exercise and to reduce stress.

To be a yoga instructor, you can take the Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) credential which costs around $1,000. It’ll also require time investment since online yoga certifications take more time. According to Comparably, the income of a yoga instructor is $51,306. It can be lucrative, but also competitive. According to Zippia, 14,752 employed yoga instructors in the US. But there are 250,00 to 650,00 certified yoga teachers in the US.

47. Jewelry Brand

A jewelry brand is a great business idea for women at home with interest in jewelry craftsmanship. Jewelry brands have signature designs which makes them stand out in the market. According to Hill & Co, the branded jewelry market increased in demand by 15% in 2023. And the US has 48% share of the world’s polished diamond. Resources for a jewelry brand are already available within the country. That said, Statista reported 49% of customers prefer jewelry from small businesses. You can start small and make a signature design for your jewelry brand.

According to Fin Models Lab, the average income of jewelry brand owners is $75,000 per year. To start your own jewelry brand, you’ll need at least $16,000, according to Zen Business. It will depend on the jewelry type and the material needed. A challenge for this business idea is theft. It’s advised to secure safe storage and security.

48. Personal Trainer

Being a personal trainer is a suitable business idea for women at home who are fitness professionals. This business idea entails creating effective and personalized exercise programs. Personal trainers help their clients achieve and maintain fitness goals. PT Pioneer stated 40% of America is obese. According to Muscle and Brawn, 9 out 10 personal trainers retain their clients. It has a wide market and a low churn rate. 

Certified personal trainers generate $26,000 to $100,000 per year. Personal trainers get up to 20 clients per week to  earn a decent income. The challenge with being a personal trainer is unconventional work hours. Most of your clients are working 9 to 5 jobs. You’ll have sessions in the early morning or late night. PT Pioneer also reported there are 340,000 certified personal trainers in the US.

49. Nutritionist

Being a nutritionist is a great business idea for women at home skilled at managing diet. Nutritionists offer advice on people with weight and nutrition problems. They can also help with managing blood sugar and cholesterol. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 70% of US adults have poor eating habits. And Wellness Creatives reported a 15% increase in use of personalized health apps. There is a market demand that you can fill.

To be a nutritionist, some states will require you to get licensed. You can be a licensed dietician (LD), registered dietician (RD) or a registered dietician-nutritionist (RDN). Some of these states are Ohio, New York and Montana. According to the BLS, nutritionists generate $66,450 per year on average. However, Data USA reported there are 106,139 nutritionists in the USA. If you’re planning to widen your market, you’ll need to be an RDN.

50. Stylist

Being a stylist is a great business idea for women at home who have keen fashion aesthetics. Stylists curate and maintain visual aesthetics using clothes, hair, and jewelry. According to the Trunk Club Study, 6 out of 10 Americans admitted they struggle to choose clothes. Another study revealed Americans get “wardrobe panic” 36 times a year. There is a significant need for stylist services. Before you can start a full stylist studio, you can start online consultations. You can help build your client's wardrobe and offer advice on their apparel purchases.

According to Salary, the average income of a stylist in the US is $57,830 a year. And Starter Story revealed stylists have an 80% gross margin. It’s a profitable business idea with enough room for growth. There are no degrees required to be a stylist. But you can get the Certified Image Consultant certificate. It can help you increase your credibility to your clients. Especially since there are 263,263 stylists in the US, as per Zippia. You’ll need to be updated to trends and credible to stand out from the competition.

51. Personal Chef

Being a personal chef is a great business idea for women at home skilled at cooking but want a flexible work schedule. Personal chefs prepare meals based on the client's needs and preferences. And it’s usually on a weekly or monthly basis. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 22,000 job openings per year. The US Care also reported the average American household spends almost $10k a year on food. BLS further explained 40% of money spent on food is used for dining out. And that's money they could have spent on personal chefs so they can dine in the comfort of their homes.

According to Fin Models Lab, the average income of a personal chef is $50,000 to $100,000 a year. However, that income depends on your experience and location. You don’t need a degree to be a personal chef, although you can take certifications. The American Culinary Federation (ACF) offers Certified Fundamentals Cook and Certified Culinarian. According to the BLS, there are 172,000 cooks in the US. Although only 10,000 of them work as personal chefs. Fin Lab Models stated the average capital of a startup personal chef is $5,000. This cost includes marketing, equipment and certifications.

52. Esthetician

To be an esthetician is a great business idea for women at home interested in skin health. They recommend treatments to improve skin health and appearance. You can start virtual consultations and help women get ready to go out. According to Thimble, 9 out 10 American women put 16 products on their face before stepping out of the house. They also spend $700 on beauty products per year on average. The BLS expect a 17% increase in demand, or 10,000 job openings per year. 

According to Comparably, estheticians earn $61,466 annually. However, estheticians are state-licensed professionals. You’ll have to find a state-approved esthetician program in your state to start. According to Dojo Business, it costs $20,000 to be an esthetician. This cost covers the business permits, marketing and equipment. A drawback of this business idea is it’s not future-proof. The beauty industry depends on the economy. So, during economic downturns, it’s one of the first services people discard. And the US has 183,000 licensed estheticians, according to the Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP).

53. Makeup Artist

Being a makeup artist is a great business idea for women at home skilled at determining the best makeup needed. Makeup artists use cosmetics to enhance appearance. They also depend on occasions, themes and facial features. According to The Knot, 8 out of 10 people hire professional makeup artists. They also receive above the average annual income of Americans, which is $56,310. According to BLS, the average income for makeup artists in the movie industry is $119,940 annually. Makeup artists can start online appointments and provide tailor makeup routines and products.

There is no license needed to be a stylist. Although, you can take an esthetician or cosmetologist license. According to Online Makeup Academy, you’ll need $2,000 to $8,000 to start. This cost includes makeup supplies, marketing and portfolio set-up. Currently, there are 50,000 makeup artists in the US. And 46% of them are freelancers. The biggest challenge they face is irregular income and long hours.

54. Wedding Planning

Wedding planning is a great business idea for women at home because they’re familiar with the event and its requirements. Wedding planners manage the wedding from the ceremony to the reception. They also find and hire vendors for the wedding. According to Social Tables, 8 out of 10 couples do wedding planning online. The Wedding Planning Institute reported there are 2.4 million weddings in the US per year. On average, there are 44,000 weddings every week. Not just the volume, but engaged couples are also willing to spend. In fact, 30% of their life savings typically go to their wedding. According to Comparably, the average income of a wedding planner is $112,456 annually.

However, wedding planning can be costly to start. Landing Tree said it can cost up to $10,000. You’ll have to build contacts for every vendor and make sure they deliver quality. The job also requires you to be available even on weekends when the couples are free. Since the industry can be lucrative, it can also be competitive. According to Ibis World, there are almost 37,000 wedding planners in the US.

55. Event Planning

Event planning is a suitable business idea for women at home skilled at organizing gatherings. Event planning entails managing conventions, parties, team building, and conferences. You’ll manage the budget, create timetables and coordinate with services. According to G2, 86% of organizations are increasing in-person events in 2024. And 82% of professional planners are optimistic about the demand for events industry.

According to Fin Models Lab, event planner business owners can earn $56,000 per year on average. It takes $12,000 on average to start an event planning business. This cost includes website set-up, equipment, and software for managing your projects. According to Ibis World, there are 116,324 event and party planners in the US. It can be tough to stay ahead of the competition. But the biggest challenge of this business idea is getting people to attend events. In fact, 52% of event planners said it’s their biggest concern.

56. Fitness Trainer

Being a fitness trainer is a great business idea for women at home interested in health and fitness. A fitness trainer develops a training program. They teach proper forms, monitor progress and safe alternatives. According to the BLS, fitness trainer demand grows by 14%. PT Pioneer also reported 66.5 million Americans started attention health clubs since 2021. So, there is a growing demand for fitness trainers that you can fill in. Moreover, based on Aytm’s survey, 48% think personal trainers are beneficial to their success.

Michelle Briehler is a famous fitness trainer in YouTube with 221k subscribers. Michelle is a certified fitness trainer with 20 years of experience. She's also a certified sports performance trainer. Michelle features different workout routines every week in her channel. She works with brands like Lumen and Snap for sponsorships.

According to Glassdoor, online fitness trainers can earn up to $93,000 per year. You’ll need $5,000 to $10,000 to start a fitness training business. Certifications are also vital for credibility. They cost between $400 to $800 and demand time commitment. According to PT Pioneer, there are 360,000 fitness trainers in the US.

57. Beauty Salon

A beauty salon is a suitable business idea for women at home interested in hair styling. According to Style Seat, 92% of salon revenues come from hair treatments. And Scott Max concluded 65% of the whole industry’s revenue is from hair services. Salons can also offer nail, makeup and makeover services. The average American spends $110 on beauty and wellness, but women spend $124 per month on average. As per Style Seat, 58% of Americans wouldn't cut beauty spending even during recession. Beauty salons also showed resilience during the pandemic. According to Scott Max, 23% adapted at-home beauty services and online consultations.

According to Comparably, a beauty salon owner can earn $113,202 per year on average. That said, beauty salons have a 50% failure rate. Their biggest challenge is overstocking and client retention. The beauty salon industry is also highly competitive. According to Ibis World, there are 1,464,924 salons in the US.

58. Dog Walking

A dog walking business is a great business idea for women at home who like dogs. According to Dogster, dogs need 20-30 minutes of physical activity every day. It can be walking or hiking depending on the age and physical ability of the dog. According to Forbes, 65 million American households have a dog. So it’s likely a number of people in your area have dogs. And this business idea has a 30% to 50% gross revenue, according to Doola. 

Dog walking business owners generate $30,000 to $40,000 per year. However, there is a shortage of workers in the pet care industry. According to the National Association of Pet Sitters and Dog Walker survey, 6 out of 10 pet care businesses struggle to find workers. Currently, Econ Life reported 24,000 dog walking companies employ 51,000 workers. And 71% of them are women. You might struggle to find workers for your dog walking business, especially when you decide to scale.

59. Pet Grooming

Pet grooming is a suitable business idea for women at home knowledgeable at basic grooming. Pet grooming involves cleaning, facials and pampering to maintain pets’ good health. Mobile pet grooming is a rising option for busy pet owners. You can also do house service for pet owners around your area. According to World Metric. 60% of pet owners in the US hire pet grooming services. And 7 out of 10 pet grooming services are small businesses. Although Dogster revealed there are 300,000 pet grooming services in the US. 

Pet grooming services in the US can earn between $20,000 to $70,000 per year. The pet grooming business profit margin is 20% which makes it challenging to scale. According to Huckleberry, starting a pet grooming service costs $20,000. This cost covers your supplies, software and advertising.

60. Physical Fitness Instructor

Being a physical fitness instructor is a great business idea for women at home interested in Zumba or Pilates. Physical fitness instructors typically teach a group like a health or sports club. According to PT Pioneer, 19% of the US population do exercise and sport every day. Furthermore, 70% of millennials participate in fitness activities regularly. It’s no wonder the BLS reported a 39% increase in demand for fitness instructors.

According to Exercise, the fitness industry data showed the annual income of a physical fitness instructor is $40,000. Although Glofox reported the top 10% generates $58,000 per year. That said, the fitness industry can be competitive. According to Ibis World, there are over 1 million trainers in the US. You’ll also be subjected to irregular work hours. The Trainer Academy even reported some trainers work for 12 hours per day.

61. Apparel Business

Apparel business is a great business idea for women at home passionate about clothes and accessories. An apparel business designs and develops clothing garments. It also produces complementary products like fragrance, eyewear and footwear. According to Gitnux, Americans spend $1,866 on clothes every year. 24% of them buy clothes online every week. These data suggest the clothing industry has a steady demand. According to Forbes, the average income of an online clothing store owner per year is $48,901. But if you create your own clothing line, you can generate $513,000 per year, as per Starter Story.

To start an apparel business, you'll need between $5,800 to $17,000. The fashion industry follows trends that change twice a year, on average. Your apparel business will need enough capital to keep up. Another drawback of an apparel business is supply chain issues. You'll have to secure garments you will use. Then find manufacturers willing to produce your designs. And make sure your products get delivered to your customers on time.

With $5,000 capital, Sara Blakely founded Spanx. It's an apparel business focusing on women clothes. She started her business in Atlanta, Georgia and it's now available in 50 countries. Sara also recently expanded to shoes. She launched Sneex in August 2024. 

62. Nail Art Studios

Nail art studios are a great business idea for women at home enthusiastic with nail art. Nail art studios provide nail treatments and decorations using paint or polish. These include pedicure, manicure, nail art and nail extensions. According to Gitnux, 60% of nail salon clients spend between $10 to $50 per visit. And Statista reported 20 million of Americans avail manicure services 4x a year. There is a decent demand for nail treatments throughout the year. It's also a business idea you can start at home or around your neighborhood with just a kit in hand.

According to Salon Business, nail salon owners generate $40,000 to $75,000 per year on average. But Deals on Health reported successful nail studio owners earn as much as $120k a year. The 2 biggest challenge in the nail care industry is keeping clients and competition. According to Nail Magazine, 24% of nail salons struggle in finding and keeping clients. Another 23% struggle with competition. Gitnux stated there are 408,000 nail technicians in the US.

63. Bridal Makeup

A bridal makeup business is a great business idea for women at home interested in makeup and knowledgeable in wedding traditions. The Knot’s survey on 10,000 couples also revealed high interest in bridal makeup services. According to Beauty Matter, the average spending on wedding makeup doubled because of social media. Based on Wedding Wire’s data, the average bridal makeup cost in the US is $300 but it can go as high as $600. Career Explorer also reported a 6.5% growth in demand for makeup artists. There is a clear need and profit in this business idea.

According to Zippia, makeup artists can earn $45,500 per year. And to start a bridal makeup business, you’ll need $10,000, sa per Pay. Bridal makeup uses various cosmetics which can cause allergic reactions. You have to cover all possible skin types and be prepared for any allergy. Another drawback of being a bridal makeup artist is the long hours. You’ll have to service the bride and her whole entourage. According to Career Explorer, there are 4,600 makeup artists employed in the US.

64. Organic Cosmetics

Organic cosmetics is a great business idea for women at home who are health conscious. Organic cosmetic products are made with 95% of organic ingredients. These ingredients typically come from organic cultivation with no pesticides or chemical fertilizers. According to the NPD Group, 7 out of 10 consumers buy skin products made with clean ingredients. Statista revealed 50% of US consumers buy organic cosmetics because they're healthier. These data reveal a shift in buying behavior to more eco-friendly solutions.

And it's a profitable business too. Based on Fin Models Lab report, organic cosmetics business owners revenue is $50,000 to $500,000 per year. However, it's costly to start. The average capital needed for an organic cosmetics business is $30,000 to $50,000. You'll have to find or start and maintain an organic farm to get the ingredients. So, it's more costly than other business ideas. Additionally, it'll be harder to scale. Organic cosmetics also have shorter shelf life. Organic ingredients lose effectiveness over time.

65. Handicraft Business

A handicraft business is a suitable business idea for women skilled in crafts and working with their hands. Handicrafts business produces a wide range of handmade products. Textiles, pottery, and jewelry are some examples. Based on Aytm’s report, 4 out of 10 consumers buy handmade products for its quality. Business Insider revealed 22% of US adults but handmade products online. It’s no wonder that Credence Research saw an 11% increase in the handicraft market.

According to Fin Models Lab, the average handicraft owner earns between $45,000 to $65,000 a year. Most handicraft sellers are using Etsy. And Wunderland estimates there are 2.1 million handicraft sellers on the platform. It's highly competitive and it'll take time to be established. A handicraft business is also challenging to scale. You'll have to hire more people and teach them the techniques to produce your handicraft.

66. Baking

Baking is a great business idea for women at home who like baking pastries or cakes. Baking is creating flour-based food like cakes, cookies and bread. Baked goods are always in demand because of occasions like birthdays, weddings and holidays. According to Toast, 82% of US households visit bakeries 12x a year. And 77% of Americans said the smell and visuals of bakeries enticed them to buy. It’s an irresistible staple food in the country.

According to Toast, the average startup capital needed for a bakery is $20,000. The cost covers bakery equipment and cookware like ovens, mixers and freezers. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, bakery owners earn $46,980 per year. The baked goods industry is dominated by large companies. According to Statista, Bimbo Bakeries USA, Flowers Foods and Pepperidge Farm account for 53% of the baked goods industry. Moreover, the World Metrics reported there are 28,000 locally owned bakeries in the US.

67. Embroidery Services

Embroidery services is a great business idea for women at home who like embroidery. Embroidery services are usually used for professional or luxurious branding. This is because embroidered designs don’t fade away over time. Based on Ibis World’s report, large embroidery companies only have 26% market share. This low market share concentration means the consumers rely on small businesses for embroidery services.

The embroidery industry shows a steady 5% growth. According to Fin Models Lab, embroidery service owners can earn between $50,000 and $200,000 a year. Although that depends on location. You’ll need around $3,000 to $5,000 to start an embroidery service. This cost includes the software and machine needed for embroidery.

68. Invest in Franchise

To invest in a franchise is a great business idea for women at home with a large capital. These franchises are usually restaurants, hotels and convenient stores. According to the ADP, the average cost needed to start a franchise is $100,000 to $300,000. These franchises come with training and resources, so you’re not starting from scratch. Moreover, it has a low 5% failure rate, with 85% still in business after 5 years.

The average income of a franchise owner is $107,119 per year, as per Franchise Business Review Survey. And the top 7% earns $250,000 per annum. However, the International Franchise Association (IFA) reported 80% of franchise owners struggle to find workers. According to Budget Blinds, there are 770,000 franchises in the US, employing 8 million people. You'll have to provide great working conditions to attract quality labor.

69. Childcare Services

Childcare services are a great business idea for women at home who like children. A childcare service is typically in groups. In-home childcare for 8 children can generate up to $50,000 a year. It is a lucrative business. According to Zippia, 10% of a household with 2 incomes in the US is spent on childcare. In fact, 6 out of 10 parents rely on childcare. However, starting a childcare service can be costly. According to Biz Fluent, it can cost up to $50,000 for childcare supplies. You’ll be needing mats, cribs, tables and age-appropriate toys.

70. Pet Sitter

Pet sitter is a great business idea for women at home living in North America and loves all kinds of pets. Pet sitters care for dogs, cats, birds and other exotic animals. They can also take pets to vets or administer medication. According to Dogster, North America has the biggest demand for pet sitters. Moreover, US households spend $1,000 per year on their pets. 

According to the Pet Sitter Course, a pet sitter working 20 to 35 hours per week can earn $20k to $25k a year. While pet sitter business owners have annual gross revenues of $70k on average. One drawback of this business idea is you’ll work in the early morning or evenings and weekends. Since those are the times pets are fed and need exercise. Also, Dogster reported there are 35,000 pet sitters in the US.

71. Cloud Kitchen

Cloud kitchen is a great business idea for women at home who like to cook. Cloud kitchen is a platform that allows customers to place orders and have it delivered to their homes. You can save on renting a place for your restaurant. According to Ghost Kitchen, 51% of restaurant owners in the US already shifted to cloud kitchens. Soocial also reported 34% of Americans order take out twice a week. No wonder the average income of a cloud kitchen owner per year ranges from $50,000 to $150,000.

According to Soocial, you’ll need $20,000 to $30,000 to start a cloud kitchen business. You’ll also need $4,000 to $6,000 for the monthly fee. What cloud kitchen owners save on rent, they spend on food delivery services and cloud kitchen platforms. Zomato and Wiggy charge 20% to 30% of a cloud kitchen revenue. And according to Fit Small Business, cloud kitchen owners spend as much as $400 for 3rd party delivery services. Currently, Ibis World reported there are 7,594 cloud kitchens in the US.

72. Social Media Marketing Agency

A social media marketing agency is a good business idea for women at home, updated with social media trends. According to Co Schedule’s survey, 24% of US consumers go to social media first to learn about brands. And so Zippia expects 33,700 job openings for social media managers. According to Glassdoor, the average annual income of social media professionals is $63,765.

It costs as high as $29,100 to start a social media marketing agency. This includes software, website and marketing costs. The drawback of a social media marketing agency is its lack of immediate results. You’ll have to constantly create engaging content to deliver results to your clients

73. Digital Marketing Agency

A digital marketing agency is a good business idea for women at home skilled in marketing. According to Wordstream, 63% of businesses increase their budget for digital marketing. Furthermore, Zippia reported there are 150,300 expected job openings for digital marketing. According to Pathstream, they earn $64,000 annually on average. It’s a profitable business idea with big demand.

However, to start a digital marketing agency, you’ll need up to $29,100. This startup cost includes website setup, project management software, and marketing. The biggest drawback of a digital marketing business is high competition. According to Promethean Research, US digital marketers increased by 54%. Moreover, high competition also means price war leading to lower profit margins.

74. YouTube Automation Business

YouTube automation business is a great business idea for women at home looking for extra income. According to ZipRecruiter, YouTube channels with 1 million subscribers typically earn $60,000 per year. However, to reach that subscriber count, you’ll need consistent quality content. According to Notta’s survey, 92% of YouTube users search for information and knowledge on the platform. And it usually takes 2 years or more to see results.

According to Pictory, the startup cost of a YouTube automation channel is $3,000 to $5,000. And this cost will provide you 35 videos on average. According to vidIQ, automated content sees results around 35 videos. Aside from time, competition is also a challenge in this business idea. According to Wyzowl, there are 114 million active channels on YouTube competing for people’s attention.

75. Print On Demand Business

Print on demand business is an excellent business idea for women at home with low capital. According to Printful, you can start a POD business with $400 to $500. It can even be lower if you design your own products. A POD business produces the product once the customer pays. So, you don’t have to purchase upfront and sleep inventory. According to Dropshipping.com, North America has the highest POD demand growing at 23% per year. And Teeinblue reported custom patches have 27.1k searches every month.

The average profit margin of a print-on-demand business is 20% with a 24% success rate. The average income of a POD business per month is $4,639. While POd business saves in inventory, it spends on products. Since you don’t buy per bulk, you don’t get discounts on items. It can also cause inconsistency in product quality.

5 Major Considerations in Picking the Best Business Ideas for Women at Home

  • Choose a flexible business idea. Flexibility is crucial for women managing household responsibilities alongside a business. A flexible business idea allows adapting work hours to personal schedules. It should be easier to balance both worlds. Businesses such as freelance writing, virtual assistant, and social media management offer flexibility. These business ideas let you set your own hours and make adjustments as necessary. According to a survey by Deloitte, 2 out of 3 of women in highly flexible work arrangements plan to stay with their employer for over 3 years. 
  • Opt for low-investment ideas. Starting a business with minimal investment reduces financial risks and pressures. Low-investment business ideas need lower upfront costs. So it's more workable to launch and sustain. Business ideas like dropshipping, online tutoring, and handmade crafts fit in this category. These businesses typically need a small capital for equipment or materials. Leverage free or low-cost online tools for marketing and operations. Platforms like Instagram, Etsy, and Zoom can help reduce expenses. So it's easier to earn without significant debt or financial commitments. 
  • Select a business that leverages your existing skills. Utilizing existing skills ensures you start with strength and confidence. It reduces the learning curve and helps in quickly establishing credibility. Consider your professional background, hobbies, and interests. Skills in areas like graphic design, accounting, or cooking can be profitable businesses. Freelance design, bookkeeping services, or a bakery at home are also viable options. If you start with what you already know, you can offer better service quality. According to the World Economic Forum, businesses adopting skills-first approach have a 63% chance of achieving success 
  • Consider your workspace. Assess the space in your home. A conducive work environment enhances productivity and efficiency. Do you have a quiet room for client calls or enough space for production if you're making goods? Your workspace should be comfortable, organized, and equipped with necessary tools. According to Wifi Talents, 70% of workers reported being productive because of workspace comfort. So, consider ergonomic furniture and proper lighting. For businesses requiring physical production, adequate space and storage solutions are important.
  • Ensure strong market demand. Conduct market research to identify trends and gaps in the market. Use online tools like Google Trends or industry-specific forums to gather insights. Pay attention to consumer needs, preferences and issues. Eco-friendly products, health and wellness services, or digital marketing are currently in demand. Validating market demand reduces the risk of business failure.

What is the Easiest Business Idea for Women at Home?

The easiest business idea for women at home is an online business based on their expertise, interest and offer flexible working conditions. According to Zoe Talent Solutions, women working at home report high stress because of house chores. So, online business ideas like local lead generation, print-on-demand, ghost writing and web designing are the best options. Since they don't require fixed working hours. 

It's also best to choose a business idea that doesn't require certifications. You'll save a lot of money and time. Dropshipping, affiliate marketing, starting a YouTube channel or hosting a podcast are some of your options for this. You can start right away or take courses to expand as you go.

Conclusion: Why Local Lead Generation Is the Top Tier Business Idea for Women at Home

Local lead generation is the top tier business idea for women at home because it is low maintenance and practical. You're creating websites for local business owners like plumbers and roofing service providers. These are services that people search for when they're in need. You don't have to nurture them since they're already quality leads. So local business owners will have no problem renting your website.

Local lead generation is also low competition. Unlike creating a YouTube channel or starting an online store, local lead gen only competes with 15 to 30 local businesses. It is easier rank on search results. It will only take you 3 to 6 months, compared to the minimum of 2 years for blogging. This is why after trying other online business models. I always come back to local lead gen.

The site I created in 2015 regularly generate me $2,000 per month to this day. Local lead gen enable me to work at home since then. And because it's a repeatable process, you can create multiple local lead gen sites and rent them out. All the sites I own today earn me $52,000 a month. Local lead gen is the best starting point in earning money at home. And it's best learned with a mentor and a tight-knit community of 7,000 entrepreneurs.

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Ippei Kanehara
Founder/CEO

$52K per month providing lead generation services to small businesses

Ippei.com is for digital hustlers, industry leaders and online business owners.

His #1 online business recommendation in 2024, is to build your own lead generation business.

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  1. A great-looking website design can do wonders to make an online business successful on the internet. I am impressed with your creativity. Keep it up. Thanks for providing useful information to us.

    1. You’re right. And even more than that, specifically an optimized site can do more than wonders because taking up digital real estate online can be game changing for any business. That’s what’s taught in the lead generation coaching program we’re a part of.

  2. Hey hi,
    I read your post and this is really helpful as well as amazing content regarding the online business ideas,
    Also helpful to me to start my startup and start making money online.
    Thanks

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