5 small-business ideas that let you work from home
When it comes to commuting or remote work, half of U.S. workers prefer working from home . In fact, 40% of respondents in a Harvard Business School survey said they would accept a pay cut of 5% or more for the ability to telecommute. It’s also an increasingly common reason founders start their own businesses. If you’re interested in launching your own startup , there are plenty of small-business…
Working from home is an attractive option for many U.S. workers, with 40% willing to accept a pay cut for the flexibility. Starting a small business from home is a common response to this desire for remote work. Roughly 19 million U.S. businesses are based out of their owner's home, often due to the lack of need for additional rent. With just a laptop, internet connection, and specialized skill, numerous small-business ideas can be launched from home.
Social-media consulting is one such idea, with the market for social media management projected to grow from $29 billion in 2024 to nearly $165 billion by 2034. This could be a lucrative business for those skilled in managing platforms like X, TikTok, and Instagram, with the potential to grow a business alongside managing its online presence.
Medical coding is another profession that lends itself well to being run from home. While the job may seem at risk of automation, accuracy and privacy concerns have made it a stable field. Medical records are often complex and not standardized, making the need for human coders essential. Although certification is required, this is a viable home-based business that can start small and potentially grow a network of workers or relocate to a dedicated office in the future.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the field to grow 7% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average growth rate of all occupations.
For those with artistic skills, e-commerce presents another viable home-based business idea. Whether painting, 3D printing, or making jewelry, working from home provides a comfortable environment to create and sell products. Platforms like Etsy offer a built-in customer base and can help advertise to a wider audience. Niche items, such as pet accessories or hobby-specific goods, can help build a loyal customer base and reduce competition.
Tax preparation services is an area where skilled individuals or businesses can benefit from professional assistance. As tax codes become increasingly complex, more people and businesses need help navigating the system. If you have the right skill set, such as a CPA license or an Accredited Tax Preparer (ATP) certificate, you can help clients file their returns more efficiently. Focusing on niche areas like short-term rentals, e-commerce, or the creator economy can help you build a reputation and attract future customers.
Written by urgent.news from Fast Company's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
