88 Low-Cost Small Business Ideas To Start In New York

Updated: July 11th, 2024

Interested in starting a business in New York in 2024?

We put together 87 of the best businesses you can start in New York today.

For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in New York.

Here's the full list:

1. Start a mobile oil change business ($48M/year)

Starting a mobile oil change business in New York offers a fantastic opportunity to cater to busy individuals looking for convenience in car maintenance. With a van and essential equipment, you could offer on-site services, saving customers the hassle of going to a service center. This model has been successfully implemented, as seen in the story of GetSpiffy, Inc., started by entrepreneur Scot Wingo in Durham, NC.

GetSpiffy, Inc. demonstrates how a mobile, app-based car care service can scale effectively, servicing over 3,000 vehicles daily across 27 markets. Inspired by the growth of digital services and consumer convenience, Scot Wingo created a business delivering various car care services including oil changes directly to customers’ locations. For more inspiration, you can read the full case study here.

How I Started A $50M/Year Mobile Car-Care Service

Spiffy, a mobile car-care company servicing over 3,000 vehicles a day in 27 markets, was founded by a four-time entrepreneur who saw an opportunity to marry exceptional service and technology, with an eye on digital services, consumer convenience, and the upheaval of the automotive industry.

Read by 3,528 founders

2. Start a moving company ($30M/year)

Starting a moving company in New York could be a highly lucrative and rewarding business venture. The high population density and constant flux of residents in and out of the city make this a continually in-demand service. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and offering a unique value proposition, you could carve out a niche in this competitive market.

A notable example is Oz Moving & Storage, which was founded by Avi Oz in 1993 in New York City. This company started with humble beginnings, a hand-painted truck, and a small storefront on W 47th Street in Hell's Kitchen. Today, it has grown into a $30M/year business offering both commercial and residential moving services. Learn more about their journey in this case study.

How We Started Our $30M A Year Commercial Moving Company Back In 1993

Avi Oz, founder of Oz Moving & Storage, started the company in NYC in 1993 and built it to a $30M/year organization, offering commercial and residential moving services and prioritizing customer satisfaction and trust by providing excellent service and anticipating client needs.

Read by 1,466 founders

3. Start a shipping business ($28.8M/year)

If you are interested in starting a shipping business in New York, there are plenty of opportunities, especially with the growth of e-commerce. You could offer various services such as warehouse management solutions or outsourced order fulfillment for online stores. This is a dynamic industry where efficient logistics and software solutions can set you apart.

ShipHero, founded by Aaron Rubin in Garnerville, New York, showcases the potential for success in this field. Starting with just $435,000 in outside investment, ShipHero now processes over $5 billion in e-commerce gross merchandise volume annually and has grown its revenues to $30 million each year. For an inspiring case study on how they achieved this, check out their story here.

How We Started A $30M/Year Warehouse Management Software And Outsourced Ecommerce Fulfillment Business

ShipHero co-founders built their successful e-commerce fulfillment business, offering warehouse management software and outsourced eCommerce fulfillment, growing revenues from zero to $30 million annually, processing over $5 billion of e-commerce gross merchandise volume (GMV) annually while only having received $435,000 in outside capital investment.

Read by 9,195 founders

4. Start a streetwear brand ($13.2M/year)

Starting a streetwear brand in New York could be an exciting and financially rewarding venture, given the state’s urban culture and trendsetting residents. This business idea could enable you to tap into the ever-growing market for exclusive and high-end streetwear brands. You could capitalize on trends and create a brand that resonates with fashion-forward individuals who are seeking unique and limited-edition pieces.

A compelling example of success in this field is LacedUp, which was founded by Andrew and Phillip Pevzner in Albany, New York. They grew their venture from a single store to a chain of four locations in New York and New Jersey, with annual sales surpassing $5 million. LacedUp specializes in high-end collectible sneakers and streetwear, and has been able to build a loyal customer base by offering rare and sought-after items from brands like Supreme, Jordan, and Yeezy. To learn more about their journey, check out their case study.

How Two Brothers Started A $500K/Month Chain Of High-End Sneakers

Two brothers built a $5M annual sales business, Laced Up, from a lawn care service they started at age 10, and have since grown from one store to 4 locations in New York and New Jersey, specializing in high-end collectible sneakers and providing great customer service.

Read by 8,874 founders

5. Start a dermatology business ($12M/year)

Starting a dermatology business in New York could be a highly lucrative venture, especially given the increasing demand for aesthetic and dermatological services. With a focus on treatments like Botox, dermal fillers, and laser therapies, you could cater to a diverse range of clients seeking to enhance their appearance and well-being. Additionally, incorporating wellness programs such as hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle coaching could set your practice apart from more traditional dermatology clinics.

A notable example is ProMD Health, a company founded by Scott R. Melamed in Penfield, New York, which has experienced significant growth with a CAGR of over 40%. ProMD Health offers a wide range of services to help people look and feel their best, and their success story demonstrates the potential of this business model in New York. For more detailed insights into how this business was started and its growth trajectory, you can check out their case study.

How We Started A $700K/Month Aesthetic Dermatology Business

ProMD Health is a rapidly expanding aesthetic dermatology business, boasting a CAGR of over 40%, with four offices, a franchise, a philanthropic initiative, a tattoo removal business, a telemedicine company, and more, all while giving power to their physicians through ProMD Development Group.

Read by 9,175 founders

6. Start an online reputation management business ($6.6M/year)

Starting an online reputation management business allows you to help individuals and companies maintain their public image on the internet. This involves ensuring that positive content ranks higher in search engine results while managing or mitigating any negative content. In a highly digital and interconnected world, reputation management plays a crucial role in personal and professional success, making it a valuable service. If you're entrepreneurial and tech-savvy, you could find significant opportunities in this sector right in New York.

Qnary, a successful example of this type of business, was started by Bant Breen in New York City. Qnary is an executive reputation management and talent branding solutions company. The company's tech-enabled platform optimizes an executive’s online presence, generates thought-leadership content, and boosts engagement. With thousands of clients globally and a robust monthly revenue, Qnary exemplifies the potential success of an online reputation management business in New York. For more on their journey, check out their case study.

How I Started A $550K/Month Executive Online Reputation Management Solution

Qnary founder Bant Breen built and grew the executive reputation management and talent branding solutions company, now with thousands of clients globally, with a monthly revenue of $550k by developing a tech-enabled solution that optimizes an executive’s online presence, generates thought-leadership content, and grows followers and engagement.

Read by 7,731 founders

7. ($6.6M/year)

If you are considering starting a unique, niche business in New York, you could be inspired by the success story of the Flute Center of New York, which was started by Phil Unger. This specialized shop, located in Manhattan, has carved out an impressive niche by solely focusing on flutes and piccolos. Having grown over the past 42 years, the business now sells instruments ranging from $500 to $75,000 and achieved retail sales of over $7 million in 2019.

The Flute Center of New York sets an example of how you could find success in a specialized market, by catering to both beginners and professional musicians from around the world. For more detailed insights on how Phil Unger built this successful venture, you can read the full case study here. This example underscores the potential for niche businesses to thrive in the dynamic and diverse market of New York.

How I Started A $550K/Month Flutes And Piccolos Online Store

Flute Center of New York is the largest flute-centric company in the world, servicing musicians globally with an impressive retail level sales of over 7 million USD in 2019 by selling flutes and piccolos ranging from $500 to an astonishing $75,000.

Read by 5,669 founders

8. Become a nutritionist ($6M/year)

If you have a passion for health and wellness, you could consider becoming a nutritionist. This business idea leverages the increasing awareness around healthy living and dietary management. A compelling example of this is Stronger U, an online nutrition consulting company started by Mike Doehla in Newburgh, New York. Stronger U stands out with its unique 1-on-1 coaching approach, boasting impressive client satisfaction metrics like an NPS of 78.6 and stellar reviews on Google and Facebook.

Opening a nutrition consultancy could allow you to make a significant impact on people's lives while enjoying the flexibility of running your own business. If you're intrigued by this path, check out the case study about Stronger U to learn how Mike Doehla transformed his vision into an 8-figure business generating over $500k monthly.

How I Started A $6M Online Nutrition Coaching Business

Stronger U is an online nutrition consulting company with an 8-figure business receiving revenues of over $500k monthly, offering clients a unique nutritional experience through a 1-on-1 coaching approach, boasting an NPS of 78.6 and rated highly on Google Reviews and Facebook.

Read by 10,801 founders

9. Start a furniture business ($6M/year)

Starting a furniture business in New York offers promising opportunities, especially if you embrace innovative approaches to meet modern demands. For example, Greg Hayes started Branch Furniture in New York City, revolutionizing the office furniture market by offering high-quality, cost-effective furniture directly to businesses. Branch Furniture simplifies the procurement process by providing space design, delivery, and installation services, all at a fraction of the price of traditional offerings.

By leveraging a direct-to-consumer model, Branch has achieved impressive success, surpassing $1M in sales within its first year. This New York-born company sets a precedent for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter the furniture industry with a fresh perspective. For more insights into how Greg Hayes built Branch Furniture, you can read the full case study here.

How I Started A $300K/Month Premium Office Furniture Business

Branch Office Furniture offers a new approach to the office furniture industry, selling high-quality furniture directly to businesses with space design, delivery, and installation included at one-third to one-half of the price of comparable quality products, resulting in over $1M in sales since launching in Q1 of 2019.

Read by 17,438 founders

10. Start a weighted blankets brand ($4.99M/year)

Starting a weighted blankets brand in New York could be an excellent business idea, especially with the growing awareness of their therapeutic benefits. These blankets, which provide gentle pressure similar to a comforting hug, have been gaining popularity for their ability to improve sleep and reduce anxiety. An inspiring example of this is Baloo Living, founded by Elizabeth Grojean, which achieved six-figure sales within its first three months and seven-figure revenues by its first year, showcasing the immense potential in this market.

For those in New York looking to start a similar venture, Baloo Living’s success demonstrates how high-quality products and thoughtful design can quickly capture market interest. Even though Baloo Living’s story began in Austin, Texas, the principles behind its success are universal. If you are interested in exploring more about how Elizabeth built her thriving business, you can read the detailed case study here.

How I Started A $100K/Month Business Selling Weighted Blankets From Bali

Baloo Living, a Bali-based wellness company founded in 2018, saw incredible success in its first year, reaching six and seven-figure sales figures within just three and 12 months respectively by offering a high-quality, thoughtfully-designed weighted blanket.

Read by 12,229 founders

11. Start a gaming, sports and entertainment center ($4.8M/year)

Starting a gaming, sports, and entertainment center in New York could be a lucrative and exciting opportunity. These centers provide a wide array of attractions like sports simulators, virtual reality experiences, and unique large-scale games, catering to both private events and corporate functions. By establishing a robust inventory and focusing on diverse client needs, you could tap into various markets, from bar mitzvahs to corporate team-building events.

Interactive Entertainment Group, founded by Gregg Dukofsky in Hauppauge, NY, is a prime example of success in this industry. Initially launched with a single product at an amusement park, the company has evolved significantly to generate around $400K per month in revenue. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they even reinvented themselves by offering virtual experiences. For more details on their journey and insights, check out their case study.

How I Started an Award Winning Event Production Company

From a booth at a flea market to a 400k/month revenue generator, learn how this event production company pivoted to focus on corporate events, garnered top private companies recognition by Inc., and reinvented itself through virtual offerings in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read by 7,438 founders

12. Start a staffing agency ($3.84M/year)

Starting a staffing agency in New York could be a promising business idea, especially in a city with a high concentration of businesses seeking specialized talent. You could follow the example of Boldly, a subscription staffing company founded by Sandra Lewis right in New York, New York. Boldly has soared to $3 million in revenue through word-of-mouth referrals, offering flexible, remote work opportunities to skilled professionals, including military spouses and expats.

The company’s success demonstrates how you could meet the growing demand for remote and flexible staffing solutions. Boldly provides businesses with highly qualified, Fortune 500-trained remote talent, proving that a strong focus on quality and flexibility can carve out a niche in the staffing industry. To learn more about how Sandra Lewis achieved this, check out the full case study.

How Word Of Mouth Propelled Our Business To $4M/Year

Boldly, the subscription staffing company, has achieved $3 million in revenue through word-of-mouth referrals, and has grown to over 100 employees working across two continents, offering prized flex-time to military spouses, expats and experienced professionals focused on high quality remote work with corporations in a win-win environment.

Read by 7,169 founders

13. Start a co-working space rental business ($3.6M/year)

If you're in New York and looking to start a business, opening a co-working space could be an excellent opportunity given the increasing demand for flexible, affordable workspaces. Co-working spaces are essential for freelancers, solopreneurs, and startups who need a professional setting without the high costs of long-term leases. By offering amenities such as high-speed internet, office equipment, and meeting rooms, you provide a valuable service to a growing market of remote workers and small businesses.

The Farm Soho, founded by Lucas Seyhun in New York City in 2014, is a prime example of how this business model can thrive. Positioning itself with an affordable workspace model, it targets early-stage startups, solopreneurs, and digital nomads. Located in the heart of New York City, The Farm Soho's competitive pricing has attracted a diverse clientele, making it a prominent player in the co-working space industry. You can read more about Lucas Seyhun's journey and The Farm Soho here.

By starting a similar venture, you could potentially contribute to the dynamic entrepreneurial landscape of New York while building a sustainable and profitable business.

I Created An Airbnb For Startups In NYC & Make $3.6M/Year

The founder of The Farm Soho, one of the earliest New York City co-working spaces, shares how he built his affordable workspace model for solopreneurs and startups, as well as discussing his tips for attracting and retaining customers while navigating the challenges of running a business.

Read by 4,320 founders

14. Start a code generator business ($3.6M/year)

If you have a knack for technology and innovation, starting a code generator business in New York might be the perfect venture for you. A compelling example of this is QR TIGER, launched by Benjamin Claeys in New York, NY. QR TIGER is a QR code management platform that enables users to create both static and dynamic QR codes, offering functionalities such as data tracking and content editing even after the code is generated. Claeys, originally an architect with a passion for technology, turned his idea into a profitable venture by focusing on customer-centric strategies and organic growth.

By leveraging advanced functionalities and providing tangible value to businesses and individuals, you could carve out a niche in this growing market. To learn more about the success story and get inspired, read the full case study here.

How I Built A $300K/Month QR Code Management Platform As A Former Architect

QR TIGER, a QR code management platform that provides static and dynamic QR codes, has developed a strong position in the market, with a profitable business model and consistent growth through customer-centric and organic marketing strategies.

Read by 6,717 founders

15. Start a marketing agency ($3.6M/year)

Starting a marketing agency could be a lucrative and exciting venture, particularly in a dynamic state like New York. By leveraging your skills in digital marketing, branding, and customer acquisition, you could help local businesses grow their online presence and reach a wider audience. New York City, being a hub of innovation and business, provides ample opportunities to work with diverse clients ranging from startups to large corporations.

Take inspiration from Jakt, a digital product and innovation studio based in NYC, founded by Anthony Tumbiolo. Jakt has worked on over 100 projects including mobile apps, web applications, and IoT projects, achieving $4 million in revenue with a 20% profit margin in 2018. This showcases the high demand and potential success you could achieve by starting your own marketing agency in New York. For more details, you can read the full case study about Jakt and their journey here.

How I Started A $4M/Year Digital Product Agency

Jakt, a digital product and innovation studio based in NYC, works with both startups and large enterprises, operating on a revenue of $4 million in 2018 with a 20% profit margin, with focus on referrals and channel partnerships to attract and retain clients.

Read by 8,351 founders

16. Start an online jewelry store ($3.44M/year)

Starting an online jewelry store could be a lucrative venture in New York, catering to the diverse and affluent customer base of the state. This business idea allows you to showcase unique and custom designs, offering a wide range of pieces from affordable fashion jewelry to high-end luxury items. You could leverage various digital marketing strategies and social media platforms to reach potential customers throughout the US and even globally.

A successful example of this business model is Desires by Mikolay, started by Tara Mikolay in Chappaqua, New York. This luxury jewelry brand has thrived since its inception in 2005, tripling its brick-and-mortar presence and receiving online orders nationwide. To learn more about their inspiring journey and strategies, check out their detailed case study.

Starting and Growing a Jewelry Store as a Married Couple

Desires by Mikolay, a luxury jewelry brand offering a quality selection of custom design and fine jewelry, tripled its brick and mortar since starting in 2005 and now receives orders from all over the US online, after building an authentic brand with passionate owners.

Read by 4,372 founders

17. Start a wine club ($3.24M/year)

Starting a wine club could be a fantastic business idea in New York, especially with the state’s rich wine culture and numerous vineyards. A wine club offers enthusiasts a unique way to discover and enjoy different wines regularly, providing a recurring revenue stream for your business while fostering a community of wine lovers.

A prime example of this in New York is Taster’s Club, founded by Mack McConnell. Taster’s Club is a subscription service that initially focused on whiskey before expanding into 12 different tracks, including wine. The business quickly grew due to its focus on delivering outstanding customer experiences and providing customers with fascinating spirits from around the world. Currently, Taster’s Club is achieving $270K/month in revenue by staying agile and maintaining a lean team. You can learn more about their journey here.

How I Grew My Online Booze Business to $270K/Month

Learn how Taster's Club, a subscription service for craft spirits, went from a side-hustle to a profitable business with $270K/month in revenue, by launching fast and staying focused on providing an outstanding customer experience.

Read by 38,198 founders

18. Start an earring business ($3.12M/year)

Starting an earring business could be an excellent venture, especially in a fashion-forward and diverse market like New York. You could tap into a unique niche by focusing on specialized products, such as hypoallergenic earrings for individuals with metal allergies. This idea is well exemplified by Tini Lux, an e-commerce fashion business started by Jackie Burke in New York, which successfully provides fashion earrings specifically for women with metal allergies.

Jackie launched Tini Lux in November 2017 and quickly gained a loyal following among women aged 18-45 who had previously struggled with metal allergies. This business can serve as an inspiration for you; in just 15 months, Tini Lux grew significantly and even received recognition when a star from “This Is Us” was featured wearing their earrings on the cover of Good Housekeeping magazine. For a deeper look into how Jackie built this successful business, check out the case study.

How I Launched A Profitable Earrings Business In One Year

Tini Lux is a profitable e-commerce fashion business that provides a line of fashion earrings specifically for women with metal allergies that has gained a loyal following from its target demographic of women aged 18-45 in 15 months since launching.

Read by 21,210 founders

19. Start a media company ($3M/year)

Starting a media company in New York can be an exciting and rewarding venture for those with a passion for storytelling and content creation. One successful example of a media company started in New York City is Starter Story, founded by Pat Walls. Starter Story focuses on sharing the stories of entrepreneurs, offering valuable insights into their journeys and business strategies. This platform has grown significantly, reaching 1.4 million monthly visitors and generating millions in annual revenue.

Pat Walls began this journey by documenting and sharing experiences of business founders, which resonated with a broad audience. His success highlights the potential of tapping into the entrepreneurial spirit and the power of storytelling in the bustling New York market. For more details on Pat Walls and Starter Story, check out the case study.

How I Turned A Crappy Idea Into A $3M/Year Business

Starter Story grew to 1.4 million monthly visitors and millions in annual revenue by sharing the stories of entrepreneurs. Pat breaks down the early days and how he grew the business into something that changed his life.

Read by 69,776 founders

20. Start a taxi cab company ($3M/year)

If you are exploring the idea of starting a taxi cab company in New York, you could take inspiration from Best Deal Car Service, a thriving transportation business founded by Albert Williams. Located in the Bronx, Best Deal Car Service specializes in local community transportation, corporate transportation, and non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT). Impressively, this company projects $3.5 million in revenue annually despite fierce competition from industry giants like Uber and Lyft.

Albert Williams attributes his success to providing excellent customer service and a commitment to continuous learning. His journey from an IT Director to running a profitable taxi company with over 35 drivers is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication and strategic planning. For more insights into how Albert grew his business, you can read the full case study.

How I Built A $3.5M/Year Taxi Company Competing With Uber & Lyft

Albert Williams grew a $3.5 million transportation company, The Best Deal, from a niche transportation sector; he attributes the company's success to providing excellent service and committing to continuous learning.

Read by 10,372 founders

21. Start a lead generation business ($2.33M/year)

Starting a lead generation business in New York offers excellent potential due to the state's highly competitive and diverse business environment. With industries ranging from finance to fashion concentrated here, businesses are continuously seeking efficient ways to generate quality leads and stay ahead of the competition. By tapping into your digital marketing expertise, you could help these companies increase their sales through targeted lead acquisition strategies.

Moreover, the sheer volume of small to large businesses operating in New York means there's a vast market for your services. Your skills could be particularly valuable for startups and small businesses that need to streamline their marketing efforts but may not have the resources to do it internally. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies about lead generation businesses to see how others have found success in this field.

How I Started A $80K/Month Content Writing Business

How David Tile turned a freelance writing gig into an $80k/month business, discussing lessons learned through managing growing demands and maintaining a remote team operation.

Read by 24,485 founders

22. Start an online advertising agency ($2.12M/year)

Starting an online advertising agency in New York could be a highly lucrative opportunity due to the dense concentration of businesses in the state. From small local shops to large corporations, businesses in New York require cutting-edge online advertising to reach their target audience effectively. Your expertise could help them achieve this, offering a steady stream of potential clients.

Additionally, with the diverse and competitive marketplace in New York, there is a high demand for tailored and innovative marketing strategies. By learning the basics of digital marketing and building a strong portfolio, you could showcase your unique insights and approach to online advertising. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies from others who have launched similar agencies.

How I Started A $120K/Month Online Course For Social Media Marketing Agencies

Iman Gadzhi made over $1.2M in profit within two years with his social media marketing agency and education company, where he teaches entrepreneurs how to start and scale a profitable SMMA, with over 45 of his students making over six figures with their SMMA, and over 300 students having quit their regular jobs.

Read by 15,338 founders

23. Start a content marketing business ($872K/year)

If you’re looking for a lucrative business to start in New York, a content marketing business could be a great fit. Given New York's vibrant business ecosystem and the increasing importance of digital presence, many companies are actively seeking effective content marketing strategies. These businesses need engaging, high-quality content to stand out in a competitive market, providing a steady stream of potential clients for your new venture.

Moreover, with your expertise in SEO and social media, you could cater to industries ranging from fashion to finance, tapping into New York's diverse economic landscape. You could even hire talented content creators to manage various aspects of your work, ensuring top-notch service for your clients. Check out some successful case studies of content marketing businesses for inspiration and guidance.

How I Started A $80K/Month Content Writing Business

How David Tile turned a freelance writing gig into an $80k/month business, discussing lessons learned through managing growing demands and maintaining a remote team operation.

Read by 24,485 founders

24. Start a sales automation platform ($2.05M/year)

A sales automation platform is a compelling business idea to start in New York due to the state’s dynamic and competitive business environment. With numerous companies striving to gain an edge in their sales processes, your platform could offer invaluable tools to streamline operations and enhance efficiency, such as automated lead generation and follow-up systems.

By launching this venture, you could tap into the vast network of tech-savvy entrepreneurs and businesses in New York who are eager to leverage technology to stay ahead. For more insights into successful case studies and what it takes to build this type of business, check out our detailed guide and some remarkable success stories.

On Starting A $160K/Month CRM & Automations Company After A US Air Force Career

GreenRope, a self-funded CRM and marketing automation platform with over 1,000 customers in 20 countries, was built organically and focused on creating a positive, customer-centric culture without outside investment, with an all-in-one interface solving challenges in managing sales, marketing, customer service, and operations.

Read by 11,712 founders

25. Start a finance blog ($1.95M/year)

If you have a knack for writing and a passion for finance, starting a finance blog in New York could be a golden opportunity. The state's robust financial sector, fueled by Wall Street and numerous multinational corporations, offers a wealth of topics and a potentially large audience interested in finance-related content.

With minimal overhead costs and the ability to generate income through sponsored content and marketing programs, a finance blog presents a low-risk, high-reward venture. Plus, you could tap into New York’s vibrant network of financial experts and institutions to build valuable connections and grow your readership. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies of finance blogs that have made it big.

How I Started A $36M/Year Stock Market Research Newsletter

Financial media company MarketBeat, founded by Matt Paulson, provides objective financial information and real-time market data to empower individual stock investors to make better trading decisions, generating approximately $8 million in revenue in 2019 and ending the year with over 1.3 million unique email subscribers due to a freemium model with 75% of revenue from advertising and 25% from subscriptions.

Read by 27,765 founders

26. Become a content strategist ($802K/year)

Starting a content strategist small business in New York could be an excellent opportunity due to the state's vibrant economy and diverse industries. From tech startups in Silicon Alley to the numerous businesses based in New York City, there is a continuous demand for expert content strategy to help companies reach and engage their target audiences effectively.

Moreover, New York's bustling market offers a wealth of networking opportunities and access to a plethora of events, workshops, and professional groups where you could showcase your content strategy skills. By leveraging these local resources, you could build a strong client base and long-term relationships. For more insights on how to navigate this industry, check out successful case studies and details on how to excel as a content strategist.

How I Started An $8K/Month Technical Content Marketing Agency

Draft founder, Karl, built a productized service for technical content, generating $10k in (mostly) recurring revenue in just three months of running the business, showing the success of skill-stacking and the impact of word of mouth and maintaining a strong network in a service business.

Read by 9,942 founders

27. Start an upcycled furniture business

Given New York's diverse and vibrant market, starting an upcycled furniture business could be a fantastic opportunity. The state is known for its creative and eco-conscious consumers, providing a strong customer base for unique, sustainable home decor. This business idea also leverages the growing trend of environmental responsibility and the appreciation for handmade, bespoke items.

You could tap into New York's rich supply of second-hand shops, estate sales, and flea markets to source your materials. Moreover, a robust online presence and high-quality imagery can attract customers from New York City to upstate areas, expanding your reach beyond local markets. Check out these success stories for inspiration on how to build a thriving upcycled furniture venture in New York.

28. Start a consulting business ($1.46M/year)

Starting a consulting business in New York could be a highly lucrative opportunity, given the state's large and diverse economy. With industries ranging from finance and technology in NYC to agriculture and manufacturing upstate, there's a constant demand for specialized expertise. You could capitalize on your skills and knowledge to provide tailored solutions to businesses in these varied sectors.

Moreover, New York is a hub for both established corporations and budding startups that require consultancy on everything from strategic planning to scaling operations. To gain valuable insights and advice on how to launch your own consulting firm, check out this detailed guide on starting a consulting business and explore successful case studies of consulting businesses for inspiration.

How I Started A $45K/Month Cybersecurity Consulting Firm For Startups

Cybersecurity consulting firm Eden Data, launched in March 2020, scaled to four team members and generated over $45k MRR without large startup costs through their unique Virtual CISO offering, which outsources cybersecurity and compliance needs for a flat monthly price, rather than charging by the hour or for long-term commitments.

Read by 35,436 founders

29. Start a website building agency ($2.38M/year)

If you live in New York, starting a website building agency could be an excellent opportunity. With the state's vibrant business ecosystem, there is a constant demand for professionally built websites from both established businesses and startups. The global website building market is booming, projected to grow from $7 billion in 2021 to $14.3 billion by 2026.

You could leverage the ever-increasing demand locally by helping businesses enhance their online presence and operational efficiency. This market trend suggests a robust opportunity for lucrative earnings, potentially reaching five figures with just one client. Starting your own website building agency could allow you to work from home and create a sustainable passive income stream. For inspiration, check out successful case studies from entrepreneurs who have thrived in this industry.

How I Started A $750K/Year Web Development Agency

Cantilever Web Design and Development, with clients including IBM and small businesses, reached a revenue of over $750k last year with a gross margin of 50% by prioritizing Digital Hospitality, fostering high-quality relationships, and constantly improving their process and philosophy.

Read by 42,244 founders

meet the author
Pat Walls

I'm Pat Walls and I created Starter Story - a website dedicated to helping people start businesses. We interview entrepreneurs from around the world about how they started and grew their businesses.