Dreaming of starting your own business in a small town? Explore some great small-town business ideas designed for success in small communities. From charming coffee shops to handy services, there are plenty of chances for folks with a vision and skills to meet local needs.
Starting a business in a small town can be good because there’s less competition, and things like rent can be cheaper. The community atmosphere is strong, so if locals like what you’re selling, they’ll stick with you.
However, small towns have fewer customers, so growing big can be tough. People might be slow to try new things, and finding skilled workers can be harder than in a city, but if you’re a savvy entrepreneur, your new business should be booming in no time!
30 Best Businesses To Start in a Small Town
1. Starting a Blog
Embark on a journey of creativity and expression by starting your own blog. Whether you’re delving into travel, food, fashion, or technology, a blog is your platform to connect, inspire, and make an impact.
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2. Pet Care Service
In pet-loving towns, pet care services are a great option. Profitable offerings like grooming and walking are readily available. However, starting a pet care business will require licensing and training.
To begin, you may consider checking out Rover, the most popular platform for dog walking and pet-sitting. With Rover, you can earn up to $1,000 monthly, averaging $15 to $26 an hour.
3. Bed and Breakfast
A bed and breakfast (B&B) is a cozy and safe place for travelers and tourists. It could become a profitable business if your town gets plenty of tourists. To run a fancy or rustic B&B, research the places tourists normally stay at, the kinds of foods most popular, and research the market on what top B&Bs offer. Don’t forget to advertise plenty online.
4. Hair Salon
A hair salon is a steady business since people always need haircuts. However, the profit depends on location and number of clients.
If you’re considering starting a hair salon, do you have the capital and skills to start one? What about certifications and hair training? Many small businesses fail because of a lack of skills and insufficient long-term goals.
5. Computer Service
Fixing and helping with computers is a great idea for a small-town business. It is good in a town where tech help is scarce, but profit varies depending on how much tech help is needed.
6. Restaurant
Opening a restaurant can be fruitful but competitive. The success depends on food quality, location, and management. It can be very profitable but also risky.
7. Coffee Shops
Coffee shops are great meeting spots, meaning a business that always has a decent amount of customers. However, the profit depends on foot traffic and regulars. An up-and-running restaurant must have a good location, a suitable environment, excellent staff, and tasty and Instagrammable food.
8. Food Truck
A food truck is a mobile business that can go where the customers are. It also has a lower start-up cost than a restaurant, but the income varies with location and menu popularity.
9. Bookstore
A bookstore business needs a town with readers. It can be a chill spot for book lovers, however, profits aren’t huge but can be boosted with events and cafes.
10. Grocery Store
A grocery store is always in demand. The profits depend on the number of customers and how much sales you’re making. It also requires good inventory and management skills.
11. Cleaning Services
Cleaning services are good for residential and business clients. It has a steady demand, and the profits depend on the number of clients and contracts.
12. Editorial/Proofreading Services
Editorial services are great business for writing and editing work. It is an excellent opportunity if you have a sharp eye and great attention to detail. You can do well if you find the right clients. It’s also mostly online, so working from home or online is the perfect solution; perfect for those who want a stay-at-home business!
13. Tutoring Services
Tutoring services would be great if schools were nearby. The income depends on the subjects and client base you want to teach. The best thing about this business is that it can be done at home or online!
14. IT/Electronics Service
Electronics servicing is enjoyable for those great at repairing and servicing gadgets. It’s also a good idea if there’s demand. Profit varies with skills and client base.
15. Hardware Store
Needed for home repairs and projects. You’ll get steady business without big competition, but the profits depend on local demand and inventory.
16. Thrift Store
Everyone enjoys thrifting and finding something fun for a fraction of the price it would cost new. A thrift store would be popular among budget shoppers. If you’re considering opening a thrift store, know that income depends on stock and pricing strategy.
17. Clothing Boutique
A clothing boutique is a fun and stylish business choice. Know that success depends on style and trends, not just general market trends but on what locals prefer. Profit varies with location and customer base.
18. Antique Store
Selling old, unique items. For this, you need a market of collectors. The income varies with stock rarity and customer interest.
19. Tattoo Shop
A tattoo parlor is an artistic and trendy new business option. It does require skilled artists, the know-how of tattoo trends, and people skills. Profit depends on reputation and client demand.
20. Fitness Studio
Fitness classes and training is an excellent business if there’s health awareness in town. Income varies with how many people get membership and fitness classes’ popularity.
21. Nail Salon
A nail salon is a popular beauty service and usually has a steady demand. Profits depend on skill, location, and clientele.
22. Organic Cosmetics
Selling natural beauty products is a good option if there’s health and eco-consciousness, but the profit depends on product quality and marketing.
23. Ice Cream Shop
Ice cream shops are seasonal but popular. Profit depends on location and product variety.
24. Bakery
Fresh bread and pastries are a good business option in any town, especially a small one. Your profits will depend on product quality and foot traffic.
25. Winery
Winery is a venture that requires the right climate and space. It, however, can be very profitable with tourism and quality products.
26. Bowling Alley
A bowling alley is always an entertainment spot. That kind of business can do well in a town lacking activities. You can also generate income from games, food, and events.
27. Sports Bar
A sports bar is popular for watching games and hanging out. Profit depends on location and patronage.
28. Gardening and Landscaping
A gardening and landscaping company can provide services for homes and businesses. There’s always steady work if there’s demand. The income varies with contracts and seasons.
29. Real Estate Agency
Selling and renting properties is a good option in a growing town. Profits depend on the housing market.
30. Veterinary Office
Animal medical care is a much-needed business in pet-friendly towns. Income depends on services offered and client base. You’ll need different licenses, trained vets, other staff, and the right medical equipment, similar to clinics and hospitals.
Things To Consider in Determining the Right Small-Town Business for You
When picking the right small-town business for you, here are some key things to think about:
What Are Your Skills and Qualifications?
Look at what you’re good at, your hobbies, and your experience. Are you great at cooking and fixing things, or maybe you’re a tech whiz? To be successful, choose a business that matches your strengths.
What Are Your Career Goals?
Consider where you want to be in a few years. Do you want a side business, or are you aiming to make big bucks and grow massively? Your new business should fit your long-term plans.
What Are Your Work Preferences?
- Interests: Pick something you love doing. If you’re into arts, maybe a craft store. Love the outdoors? Think about a gardening service.
- Indoor/Outdoor: Do you prefer being inside or out in the sun? This can guide your choice. Blogging, proofreading, personal chef, and pet or children sitter are all excellent stay-at-home jobs.
- Solo or Team: Are you a lone wolf, or do you thrive in a team? Choose a business that suits how you like to work.
- Online or Face-to-Face: Do you like chatting with people in person, or are you more comfortable online? This will affect the type of business you start. Remember to consider the most current business trends when brainstorming business ideas.
Financial Situation
Be realistic about money. How much can you spend to start? Some businesses need more cash upfront. Also, think about how soon you need to make a profit. If you’re tight on money, a low-cost startup might be best.
How To Find the Best Small-Town Business Ideas
Identify Local Demand
First, look around your town. What’s missing? Maybe there’s potential to start a daycare business, or the town’s lacking a hip catering startup. Chat with folks at places like the local diner or grocery store. What do they wish was in town?
Also, check out community boards or Facebook groups for small-town business ideas. If people keep asking for the same thing, that’s a big hint!
Consider Start-Up Costs
Think about money. Some businesses, such as opening a restaurant, can cost a lot to start. Others, like a lawn care service, might be cheaper. Figure out how much cash you’ll need for equipment, rent, and advertising.
Don’t forget about ongoing costs like insurance and utilities. Knowing this stuff is important so you don’t run out of money.
Assess Future Profitability
Look at the long game. Will people always need what you’re selling? For example, a grocery store or a gas station might be a safe bet because people always need food and fuel. But a shop selling just one kind of product might be riskier. Try to pick something that won’t go out of style.
Calculate Potential Income
Get out a calculator and do some math. How many people in town might buy your stuff? How often? Subtract your costs like rent, supplies, and paying any employees. This will give you a rough idea of how much money you could make. It’s not exact, but it’s a good start.
Availability of a Good Location
Location matters a lot. Being on the main street might be best for opening a shop or cafe. More people will see you. But if you’re starting something like a dog-walking business, you can do it from anywhere. Also, think about parking and how easily customers can get to you.
Check the Competition
Take a good look at what other businesses are doing. If there are a lot of the same type, think twice. But sometimes, you can do something similar but better.
Maybe the existing coffee shops don’t have Wi-Fi or stay open late. That’s where you could come in and offer something different. Just make sure there’s enough demand for it.
Considering these points, you’ll have a better chance of picking a business that fits well in your small town, matches your budget, and has a good shot at doing well.
Frequently Asked Questions – Small-Town Business Ideas
How Can I Make Money in a Small Town?
To make money in a small town, find a business that meets a local need or interest. A grocery store, cleaning service, or coffee shop can be a solid choice, as they often have steady demand.
What Is the Best Business To Start in a Small Town?
The best business to start in a small town depends on what the town lacks and your skills. For example, a coffee shop could be a hit without a good coffee place. Or, if there are a lot of families, a tutoring service might do well.
What Small-Town Business Can I Run From Home?
Consider editorial and proofreading services, tutoring, or a pet care service for a home-based small-town business. These can often be run from your house or online, making them convenient and cost-effective.
What Is the Easiest Business To Run in a Small Town?
The easiest business to run in a small town might be something with low overhead and consistent demand, like a cleaning service or pet-sitting business. These businesses usually don’t need a lot of equipment or a physical storefront.
Conclusion – Small-Town Business Ideas
Small-town business ideas offer fantastic opportunities for entrepreneurship. Whether it’s opening a cozy bakery, pursuing blogging as a hobby, or providing pet grooming services, there’s ample potential for success. By meeting local needs and actively engaging with the community, these businesses can contribute to the charm of small towns.
Related Reads:
- 35 Best Businesses To Start With 5k [Start Today]
- Best Ways To Earn Money: 25 Business Ideas for Women
Founder of Spark Nomad, Radical FIRE, Journalist
Expertise: Personal finance and travel content
Education: Bachelor of Economics at Radboud University, Master in Finance at Radboud University, Minor in Economics at Chapman University.
Over 200 articles, essays, and short stories published across the web.
Experience: Marjolein Dilven is a journalist and founder of Radical FIRE, a personal finance platform, and Spark Nomad, a travel platform. Marjolein has a finance and economics background with a master’s in Finance. She has quit her job to travel the world, documenting her travels on Spark Nomad to help people plan their travels. Marjolein Dilven has written for publications like MSN, Associated Press, CNBC, Town News syndicate, and more.