20 Home Business Ideas to Start in 2024

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Fact-checked by Laurynas Cesnys
Editor
Updated on: March 7, 2024

Are you seeking a home-based business that aligns with your skills and passions?

I’ve outlined 20 home business concepts tailored for 2024, from dropshipping to e-commerce, and freelance services. 

Whether you're a tech whiz or a creative maker, these low-cost concepts powered by remote work trends can facilitate income and flexibility.

Join me as I explore 20 home business ideas to convert your house into an entrepreneurial hub this year.

1. Run an Online Tutoring Business

Starting a tutoring business from home is gaining traction in 2024, especially if you're skilled in subjects like academics, music, or computing.Also, it's a great business idea because it doesn't require upfront investment (provided you already have skills that would be valuable for potential clients).

While formal qualifications aren't necessary, having a degree or teaching experience can boost your appeal to students and parents. 

With the rise of online learning, tutoring from home has become more accessible, allowing you to profit from your expertise in various subjects.

How to Start in Online Tutoring

  • Join Dedicated Online Platforms: Joining tutoring platforms like Teachable, Tutor LMS, and Thinkific, can expand your reach and help you connect with more clients. 

I suggest you try at least a couple of these platforms before finding the best fit.

Home business ideas 2

2. Start a Dropshipping Business with Just $100

Dropshipping is a popular option for home-based entrepreneurs due to its low startup costs. 

With just $100, you can set up a store and begin selling products from suppliers, earning commissions without inventory.

With minimal financial risk, dropshipping offers a straightforward way to turn spare space into a successful online store. It's also a great stepping stone if you want to become a full-fledged e-commerce business owner in the future.

Key Advantages of Dropshipping

  • No Inventory Needed: Start selling products from suppliers without the need to invest in inventory upfront. You can start from home and sell products from suppliers without the need to invest in inventory upfront.
  • Niche Market Focus: Target specific markets and use platforms like Shopify for efficient operations.
  • Streamlined Operations: With suppliers handling shipping, owners can focus on promotion and business growth.

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Bench Accounting

3. Freelance Writing Services

Freelance writing is in demand as companies seek writers to create digital content. That is why most businesses seek quality writers, creating opportunities for remote writing careers.

Successful writers master persuasive language, adapt to various topics and clients, and manage time effectively. 

Building a Successful Business With Content Writing

  • Understanding Audiences: Writers who grasp the nuances of diverse audiences can deliver engaging and accurate content.
  • Meeting Demand: Meeting the rising demand for online content enables writers to establish thriving home-based businesses.
Home business ideas 3

4. Start a Blog

Launching a blog allows you to generate income from home while pursuing your interests. Select a niche that excites you, whether it’s travel, food, or parenting, to create engaging content. 

Build your site through user-friendly platforms like WordPress for maximum functionality. Employ SEO best practices to improve visibility. 

Promote new posts through social media and email lists to boost traffic.

Monetization Strategies

  • Advertising: Earn revenue through display ads placed on your blog.
  • Affiliate Marketing: Partner with brands and earn commission for promoting their products or services.
  • Branded Products: Create and sell your own products related to your blog's niche.
  • Virtual Courses: Offer online courses or workshops to share your expertise and generate income.

Reinvest revenue into enhancers like premium themes, stock photography, and freelance writers to save time. 

Delighted readers not only return frequently but also refer others. With consistency and dedication, you can build a successful blogging business.

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5. Self-Publishing Books from Home

Authors can now independently publish ebooks online, bypassing traditional publishers, and potentially earn a significant income from home.

All you need are strong writing skills, a compelling book idea, and basic tech knowledge.

Once your manuscript is ready, format it for digital devices and upload it to platforms like Amazon Kindle or Nook Press.

With Americans spending an average of $113 yearly on reading, releasing niche ebooks can tap into this demand and potentially earn you over $1000 per month.

Home business ideas 5

Mikayla Mallek

6. Try Affiliate Marketing 

Affiliate marketing is a type of business that allows you to earn money by promoting products without handling inventory. You promote partners' products on social media, videos, or blogs and earn commissions on sales.

Compensation varies, with some programs offering a percentage of sales and others a fixed rate. Affiliates can also earn for actions like sign-ups or app downloads.

Affiliate marketing websites come in different forms, including product review sites and independent blogs.

The process involves joining an affiliate program, promoting products, and earning commissions regardless of the format.

Home business ideas 6

7. Earn $500+ Monthly with Print-on-Demand

Print-on-demand business lets you customize products like clothing and accessories without holding inventory. 

You can start by tapping into niche markets and targeting specific interests on platforms like Etsy. Themes focused on hobbies and interests best resonate with target buyers. 

Integrations handles order fulfillment, making it a low-cost startup with the potential to earn around $1500 monthly for beginners. However, creative entrepreneurs can scale earnings over time through unique designs.

Home business ideas 7

Elena Mozhvilo

8. Run a Handmade Business from Home

Starting a small business in producing and selling handmade goods from home lets you turn your skills into a source of income. Begin by choosing a craft you enjoy, like jewelry-making or woodworking, then:

  • Set Up an Online Store: Create a website to showcase and sell your products. Use platforms like Shopify or Etsy to reach customers worldwide.
  • Get Materials: Find affordable materials to keep costs down and profits up. Look for suppliers online or at local stores.
  • Price Your Products: Experiment with pricing to find what works best. You want to make a profit while still keeping your products affordable.
  • Take Great Photos: Use good lighting and clear backgrounds to take photos of your products. Show them from different angles so customers can see what they're getting.
  • Write Descriptions: Describe your products in a way that makes people want to buy them. Highlight their features and why they're special.
  • Grow Your Business: Reinvest your earnings to expand your inventory or try new products. Happy customers will recommend you to others, helping your business grow.

Following these steps, you can turn your hobby into a successful business from your home.

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9. Start a Home-Based Catering Business

If you are good at cooking, getting into catering should be a no-brainer - it's a great business to start for the home cooks and professional chefs of the world. And you can do it while technically working from home by kickstarting your venture from your licensed home kitchen. 

Start small: offer customizable packages suitable for events of all sizes and budgets. You can prepare some components at home for final touches at the event or handle the entire catering process for drop-off services.

As your new business catches speed, consider providing staffing and decor rentals as supplementary offerings.

Positive feedback and referrals from satisfied clients will serve as valuable marketing tools. 

Use social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to display your menu and signature dishes.

Home business ideas 9

Clint Patterson

10. Capitalize on the Childcare Shortage

The shortage of licensed childcare providers presents an opportunity for entrepreneurs to make this home-based business idea a reality. 

To start selling these services, secure the necessary state licensing to ensure compliance with regulations, and use platforms like neighborhood Facebook groups to advertise your services to busy parents.

Transform your home into a safe, engaging environment by childproofing every area and providing age-appropriate toys and activities. 

Keep parents informed of their children's progress with daily updates and photos. 

As your reputation grows, consider expanding your services and increasing rates to accommodate more children or hiring assistants.

Home business ideas 9

11. Grow Your Income as a Dog Walker

Starting a dog-walking business allows you to turn your love of dogs into a profitable venture. 

With low startup costs, the ability to set your hours, and unlimited growth potential, dog walking is one of the best small business ideas you can start today. 

Best of all, you can get started right from home. Begin acquiring clients through word-of-mouth, flyers, and social media promotions. 

Offer exceptional service to spur referrals and repeat business. As your client base expands, bring on employees to take on more dogs. 

Home business ideas 10

Matt Nelson

12. Launch Your Own Specialized Fitness Business from Home

Becoming an independent personal trainer lets you blend your passion for fitness with entrepreneurship, creating a unique brand tailored to your expertise. 

  • Begin by obtaining certifications from reputable organizations like NASM and ACE.
  • Stand out by focusing on specific areas such as weight loss, pregnancy fitness, or senior training. 
  • Market your specialty through social media and guest posts on relevant health blogs. 
  • Offer flexible one-on-one or small group sessions with clear goals and results.

Happy clients will refer others, acting as your best promoters. As you become a seasoned small business owner, consider expanding your services with online training programs to increase revenue. 

While success takes time, building a specialized fitness brand can be a rewarding journey toward helping others achieve their health goals.

Home business ideas 11

13. Start a Home Cleaning Business

Starting a home cleaning business can be a profitable venture. Skilled cleaners can attract clients and earn a steady income.

Before launching your business, practice cleaning skills at friends' houses. Like in every business, maintaining consistent quality is crucial for retaining customers and getting referrals. 

Research competitors and customer feedback to identify market needs. Expanding into office cleaning can also be profitable.

Choose a specialty based on your research to guide training and insurance needs for success.

Home business ideas 12

Towfiqu Barbhuiya

14. Start a Bakery Business From Home

Launching a licensed bakery from the comfort of your own home allows you to turn your talent for crafting delectable treats into a profitable and easy-to-start business. 

Register with local health authorities before preparing goods from a home kitchen up to code. Market your customizable cakes, cookies, and artisanal breads through mouthwatering social media posts. 

Offer specialty baked goods like gluten-free and vegan items to stand out. Provide catering trays and gift baskets for special occasions. 

Positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals will serve as your best publicity. Reinvest earnings into high-quality ingredients and new baking equipment to increase output. 

The potential exists to become the city’s next hot bakery.

Home business ideas 13

Yosep Sugiarto

15. Launch a Senior Companion Care Service

The growing elderly population and preference for aging at home create a need for companionship and assistance services.

No certification is necessary for this role, making it open to those who enjoy aiding others.

By conducting thorough background checks and following licensing rules, you can build a dependable business.

Offer services like transportation, household aid, tech support, and meal preparation. 

Building trust through communication and reliable care encourages referrals.

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16. Start a YouTube Channel

With billions of hours of content consumed daily, YouTube offers creators a chance to monetize their passions. 

By optimizing your channel and content, you can earn around $18 per 1,000 views. While success requires time and creativity, the potential for six-figure earnings makes YouTube an attractive business option from home.

To stand out:

  • Find a niche and conduct keyword research for discoverability. 
  • Invest in good equipment and editing software, and use social media to grow your audience. 
  • Publish quality videos consistently and consider other revenue streams like merchandise or sponsorships.

While success in YouTube takes effort, the rewards are worth it. With most teens aspiring to be creators, there's vast potential for growth and earnings.

Home business ideas 15

17. Become a Virtual Assistant:

Virtual assistance has become popular in today's remote work setup, enabling individuals to provide essential support services from their homes.

Virtual assistants handle tasks, such as scheduling appointments and sorting emails for businesses and professionals, leveraging technology to make operations more efficient.

The virtual assistance industry is expected to surpass $162 billion in revenue by 2027, presenting a profitable opportunity for those looking for flexible income.

Platforms like Fiverr host numerous virtual assistant jobs, ranging from data entry to social media marketing, making it an appealing option for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Home business ideas 16

LinkedIn 

18. Start a Web Design Business from Home

The exponential growth in businesses requiring an online presence enables you to launch a lucrative web design firm from home. Start by identifying a niche like e-commerce sites, blogs, or mobile apps. 

Offer specific services like UI/UX design, programming, and SEO optimization. Build a polished online portfolio and corporate website to exhibit your skills. Promote your services through platforms like LinkedIn and relevant industry forums. 

Offer cost-effective packages for diverse budgets. Provide excellent client service and measurable results. Positive word-of-mouth and online reviews will attract new clients. Reinvest profits to expand your service offerings.

Home business ideas 17

19. Start a Social Media Management Business

Starting a social media management and consulting business from home is a way to meet the growing demand for digital marketing services.

Focus on specific social media platforms or industries to establish expertise. Offer essential services like creating social media plans, making engaging posts, managing online communities, and analyzing performance.

Use both free and paid digital channels to find clients. Keep clients satisfied by delivering quality service and showing measurable results. 

As your business expands, consider hiring employees to handle more work. There's significant potential for growth in a specialized social media consultancy.

Home business ideas 18

Firmbee.com

20. Sell Used Items on Marketplaces

Launching this kind of business at home enables you to generate profits by reselling used items on sites like eBay and Amazon. 

Source inventory for little to no cost from local thrift stores, yard sales, and auction liquidations. Photograph items attractively against clean backdrops. Compose engaging descriptions highlighting conditions and features. 

Conduct competitive research to optimally price items for maximum profit. Leverage promoted listings and site advertising to gain visibility among millions of buyers. 

Respond to customer inquiries promptly and pack orders securely. Reinvest earnings into acquiring more valuable inventory like electronics and collectibles. 

With some time and effort, reselling used goods can produce impressive extra income.

Home business ideas 19

Christian Wiediger

FAQ

What are the essential steps to starting a home-based business?

To start a home-based business, you should first identify a business idea that matches your skills and interests. Once you have your idea:

  • Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals.
  • Target market.
  • Analyze the competence
  • Plan the marketing strategy and the financial projections.

From there, develop your product or service to meet market standards and customer needs.

Choose a suitable business structure, open a business bank account, obtain business insurance, and implement a marketing strategy to promote your business to your target audience effectively.

How can I identify a need for my online business?

To identify a need for your online business, consider your own experiences and those of people around you. 

Additionally, conduct thorough research online to explore existing market opportunities. 

By understanding the pain points and desires of your target audience, you can tailor your product or service to meet their needs effectively.

How do I develop a scalable business model?

To develop a scalable business model, focus on accommodating more customers without raising costs as your business grows. 

Consider options like subscription-based services, selling digital products, franchising, or network marketing. 

These models allow for efficient business expansion while staying profitable.

Summary: Home Business Ideas to Start in 2024

1. Run an Online Tutoring Business

2. Start a Dropshipping Business with Just $100

3. Freelance Writing Services

4. Start a Blog

5. Self-Publishing Books from Home

6. Try Affiliate Marketing

7. Earn $500+ Monthly with Print-on-Demand

8. Run a Handmade Business from Home

9. Start a Home-Based Catering Business

10. Capitalize on the Childcare Shortage

11. Grow Your Income as a Dog Walker

12. Launch Your Own Specialized Fitness Business from Home

13. Start a Home Cleaning Business

14. Start a Bakery Business From Home

15. Launch a Senior Companion Care Service

16. Start a YouTube Channel

17. Become a Virtual Assistant:

18. Start a Web Design Business from Home

19. Start a Social Media Management Business

20. Sell Used Items on Marketplaces

Conclusion:

Technology now enables entrepreneurs to build global brands from the comfort of home. By minimizing overhead costs, home ventures offer more flexibility and room for creativity. 

Consider compliance rules and competitive forces before diving in. But with vision and grit, future innovators can disrupt industries on their own terms, writing their own playbook along the way.

Sources

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Andrea Mercado is a tech-focused journalist and copywriter with over 5 years of experience covering innovation, edtech, AI, and internet trends across media outlets. She is passionate about how technology can democratize access to education and is an avid learner when it comes to emerging tech like AI. Her articles and webinars help readers stay informed on the latest tech developments.
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