16 Boring Business Ideas That Make Money You Can Start Today

The most profitable businesses are usually the boring ones.

While they might not be the talk of the town, these businesses offer things that people always need, like car repairs or basic groceries.

In this article, we’re going to look at some simple but money-making business ideas. They might not be flashy, but they can put steady money in your pocket.

1. Laundry Service

Think about it: everyone needs clean clothes, but not everyone has the time or desire to do laundry. That’s where a laundry service comes in. You don’t need much to start—just a washer, dryer, and a knack for folding clothes neatly. Plus, there’s always demand.

See: 7 Ways To Get Paid To Do Laundry

2. Vending Machines

Ever feel peckish during a long workday? You’re not alone, and that’s where vending machines come in. The best part? Once you’ve bought the machine and filled it with snacks, it practically runs itself. Businesses will often charge a small fee for letting you place your vending machine in their space.

After that, the money you make from snack sales is all yours. It’s almost like printing money, but in a way that also satisfies people’s mid-day cravings. This is what we call passive income: your vending machines are out there working for you, even when you’re not.

3. Commercial Cleaning

Offices, stores, and other commercial spaces need to be cleaned regularly, but not every business wants to hire a full-time janitor. That’s where you come in. With some cleaning supplies and a willingness to get your hands dirty, you’re good to go. Reach out to local businesses, and soon you’ll have a list of regular clients. 

4. Lawn Care

Got a lawnmower? You’re practically in business. Lawn care is always in demand, especially during the warmer months. Whether it’s mowing lawns, trimming bushes, or planting flowers, people are happy to pay for a well-kept yard.

Start small by offering services to neighbors and friends, and as your reputation grows, so can your business. Before you know it, you’ll have a full schedule and maybe even need to hire some help.

4. Storage Unit Rentals

People have stuff—lots of it—and they often need a place to keep it. Enter the storage unit rental business. This is another great way to earn passive income. You’ll need some land and the actual storage units to start. Once those are in place, customers pay you to keep their belongings safe and sound.

Aside from occasional maintenance and security checks, the business pretty much runs itself. Customers pay a monthly fee, providing a steady income stream that requires little effort on your part.

5. House Painting

You’d be surprised how much a fresh coat of paint can transform a home—and how many people are willing to pay for it. The start-up costs are pretty low; you’ll need some quality paint, brushes, rollers, and a ladder to get going.

Once you’ve done a couple of jobs and people see your work, word-of-mouth can keep you busy. And while you’re actively working on a project, the end result sticks around for years, serving as a long-term advertisement of your skills.

6. Window Washing

Dirty windows are like a smudge on a home or business’s reputation. Window washing may not be glamorous, but it’s necessary, and it can pay pretty well. Plus, the overhead is low.

All you really need are some squeegees, cleaning solution, and maybe a harness for multi-story buildings. Many businesses and homeowners are willing to pay for this service regularly, offering you a consistent source of income.

7. Carpet Cleaning

Carpets collect dirt and stains like a magnet, and no one likes the look or smell of a dirty carpet. A carpet cleaning business requires a bit more of an upfront investment for a quality carpet cleaning machine, but after that, it’s mostly about the labor you put in.

Many people and businesses are willing to pay for this service, especially if they have children or pets, or if they’re an establishment that entertains guests. 

8. Tax Preparation

Taxes are the thing everyone has to do but most people dread. That’s exactly why a tax preparation service can be so lucrative. With some training and certification, you can help people navigate the maze of tax codes, deductions, and forms.

Once tax season rolls around, people will be more than willing to pay for your expertise, turning their dread into your steady income. While it’s not entirely ‘hands-off,’ much of the prep work can be done on your own time, allowing for some flexibility.

9. Bookkeeping

Every business, big or small, needs someone to keep an eye on the numbers. Bookkeeping may not be the most glamorous job, but it’s essential. The startup costs are low, especially if you’re working from home. All you need is a computer and some accounting software. From there, it’s about building a client list.

This is a business that not only pays well but could also provide consistent work. Many small businesses don’t need a full-time bookkeeper but are happy to contract the work out, offering you a potentially steady stream of income.

10. Document Shredding

In a digital age, the importance of safeguarding sensitive information has never been greater. That’s where document shredding services come in. Businesses and individuals alike need a secure way to dispose of confidential information.

Starting this kind of business is fairly straightforward: you’ll need a commercial-grade shredder and a way to transport documents. 

11. Public Notary Service

People are always going to need documents notarized, whether it’s for legal procedures, property transactions, or other important matters. The best part? Becoming a notary public is usually a simple process involving a short training and a certification exam.

Once you’re licensed, you can offer your services to individuals and businesses. Many local businesses might even want to keep you on retainer, providing a steady income. The job is often part-time, but it can generate a reliable stream of income for minimal effort.

12. Waste Management

Let’s be real, garbage isn’t going anywhere. That’s why waste management is an evergreen business opportunity. Whether it’s regular trash collection, recycling, or specialized waste disposal, there’s a need for these services in every community.

To get started, you’d need to invest in waste collection vehicles and proper permits. The setup might require more capital, but once the operation is running, it can provide a steady cash flow with the potential for long-term contracts, especially with local governments or businesses.

13. Pest Control

No one likes unwanted visitors, especially when they have more than two legs. Pest control services are crucial for both residences and businesses, and demand spikes during certain seasons when pests are more prevalent. You’ll need some equipment and potentially certification in handling chemicals, but the investment can pay off.

Just think about it: nobody wants to deal with a bug or rodent problem themselves. Offer monthly or seasonal packages to clients and you could find yourself in a business that not only pays but keeps you busy all year round.

14. Parking Lot Maintenance

Parking lots are like the front yard of a business; they’re the first thing customers see. That’s why keeping them clean, safe, and well-marked is crucial. Starting a parking lot maintenance business isn’t too complicated. You’ll need some basic equipment like a sweeper, a line striping machine, and perhaps a pressure washer.

The beauty is, once you’ve got a few contracts under your belt, the work becomes regular. Businesses, apartment complexes, and shopping centers all need this service, making it a venture with steady income potential.

15. Basic Grocery Store

People gotta eat, right? While big supermarket chains dominate many areas, there’s still room for a basic grocery store, especially in smaller towns or urban neighborhoods.

Think of it as a scaled-down version of a supermarket, focusing on essential items that people run out of and need to replace quickly—things like bread, milk, and eggs. The startup costs can be a bit steep, but the demand is always there. Plus, once you’re up and running, you could become a cornerstone of the community.

16. Basic Auto Repair and Oil Change Services

Cars are like pets; they need regular check-ups and occasionally get sick. Basic auto repair and oil change services are essential for anyone with a vehicle, and not everyone has the time or skills to do it themselves.

You’ll need a garage space and some initial equipment, along with certified mechanics if you’re not one yourself. The demand is almost guaranteed; cars always need maintenance or repair. Offer quick, reliable service, and you could build a loyal customer base fast.