Selecting the perfect name for your boutique is a crucial and exciting step in establishing your brand identity. A boutique's name serves as its first impression, encapsulating the essence of your style, vision, and uniqueness.

Your boutique name is more than a label. It's a reflection of what you offer your customers. A distinctive name is a blend of creativity, market research, and an understanding of your target audience.

We’ll help you choose a boutique name by providing you examples of names for your boutique, tips on how to come up with names, and what to do once you’ve chosen a name.

[su_note note_color="#dbeafc"] Click on any of the links below to jump to the section.

• 40 catchy boutique names
• 26 cool boutique names
• 30 funny boutique names
• 62 creative boutique names
• 20 professional boutique names
• 48 personal boutique names
• 50 location-based boutique names
• What makes good boutique names?
• What should I name my boutique?
• Great boutique name examples
• How to register your boutique name
• Next steps after naming your boutique[/su_note]

Check out these catchy boutique names to find one that works for you.

40 catchy boutique names

Creating unique and catchy boutique names can be a fun challenge. Obviously you can’t use famous boutique names like Oscar de la Renta or Louis Vuitton. Availability can change, and it's advisable to check trademark and business name databases to ensure whatever name you like is still available.

Pro Tip: Consider how your boutique business name sounds before finalizing the boutique name. Opt for a name that rolls off the tongue easily and is memorable for your customers. A pleasant, easily pronounced name contributes to word-of-mouth marketing, making it easier for clients to share and remember your boutique.

26 cool boutique names

Here's a set of 26 cool boutique names:

Pro Tip: Infuse your boutique name with a sense of cool by considering its visual and auditory appeal. Coolness often comes from a combination of stylish aesthetics and a unique, modern sound.

Choose words that conjure vivid images or evoke a contemporary vibe. A cool boutique name not only grabs attention but also sets the tone for a trendy and desirable shopping experience. Test the name with your intended audience to gauge its cool factor and make adjustments accordingly.

30 funny boutique names

Funny boutique names are entertaining and easy to remember. Consider this list of 30 funny boutique names:

Pro Tip: Injecting humor into your boutique name is a delightful way to engage customers. Ensure the humor aligns with your brand personality and resonates with your target audience.

Play with puns, wordplay, or amusing juxtapositions related to fashion. Consider the visual aspect, too. Can the name inspire a playful logo or marketing materials?

Remember, a funny boutique name not only draws attention but also leaves a lasting impression, making your store more memorable in the minds of customers. Test the name with a diverse audience to gauge its universal appeal and refine it for maximum laughs.

62 creative boutique names

You’ll love some of these creative boutique name ideas.

Pro Tip: Crafting a creative boutique name involves combining imagination with a sense of identity. Consider including storytelling, symbolism, wordplay, cultural inspiration, or visual appeal to help create a unique boutique name.

Remember, the goal is not only to have a creative name but one that aligns with your brand's identity and leaves a lasting impression on your customers.

20 professional boutique names

If you’re boutique is more upscal, consider some of the professional-sounding boutique name ideas below.

Pro Tip: Establish a professional boutique image with a well-crafted name. Use words that hint at sophistication, elegance, and attention to detail, but are culturally sensitive. Make sure to avoid typos and inconsistencies to maintain the image.

Remember that a professional boutique name is a key element of your brand identity, and it should align with the overall image you want to portray to your customers. Take the time to carefully select a name that reflects the professionalism and quality of your boutique.

48 personal boutique names

Creating personal and unique boutique names can add a special touch. Here are 48 personal boutique name ideas.

Pro Tip: Add a personal touch to your boutique name, and you’ll enhance its uniqueness and connection with customers. You might include a personal value, a nod to your history, your own name, or an homage to a loved one in the business name. Make sure it’s easy to follow, though.

Remember, the personal touch in your boutique name is an opportunity to create a meaningful and memorable experience for your customers. Make it a reflection of your passion and dedication to providing a unique and personalized shopping experience.

50 location-based boutique names

Location-based boutique names help associate your brand with the local community. Check out these boutique names with the name of their location for some business name ideas.

Pro Tip: You can also use nicknames for your area, area codes, or zip codes to help specify your location. For instance, Chicago might have a coat store called Windy City Windbreakers. Learn more about using this naming strategy from the founder of Portland Gear.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcPqw952Xm8

What makes good boutique names?

A good boutique name should be memorable, unique, and reflective of the brand's identity. Here are some key factors that contribute to a good boutique name:

1. Memorable: Choose a name that is easy to remember and pronounce. This helps potential customers recall your boutique when they are looking for products or services.
2. Unique: Aim for a name that stands out from the competition. Avoid common or generic terms that may already be used by other businesses. Conduct thorough research to ensure the name is not already taken or trademarked.
3. Relevant: The name should reflect the nature of your boutique and the products or services you offer. It can incorporate elements related to fashion, style, or the overall theme of your boutique.
4. Versatile: Consider a name that allows for future expansion or diversification. You may want to avoid too-narrow or limiting terms if you plan to introduce new products or services in the future.
5. Cohesive: Ensure the name aligns with the overall brand image and values you want to convey. It should resonate with your target audience and create a positive impression.
6. Visually Appealing: Imagine how the name will look in your boutique signage, on business cards, and online. Opt for a name that is visually appealing and has a good aesthetic.
7. Domain Availability: If you plan to have an online presence, check the availability of the domain name associated with your boutique. Consistency across your physical and online presence is crucial.
8. Legal Considerations: Make sure the name is not already trademarked or in use by another business. Conduct thorough research and, if possible, consult with legal professionals to avoid potential legal issues in the future.
9. Timeless: While it's good to be trendy, consider whether the name will stand the test of time. Avoid overly trendy or faddish terms that may become outdated quickly.

Remember that your boutique name is an essential part of your brand identity. Take the time to brainstorm and choose a name that reflects your business's personality and appeals to your target customers.

What should I name my boutique?

Naming your boutique is an exciting step, and it's important to choose a name that reflects your brand identity and resonates with your target audience. Here are some steps and considerations to help you come up with the perfect name for your boutique:

• Define Your Brand Identity: Consider the style and vibe of your boutique, the types of products you'll offer, and the overall experience you want to provide to customers.
• Identify Your Target Audience: Identify your target demographic. Then, tailor the name to appeal to your specific audience.
• Brainstorm Keywords: Make a list of words and phrases related to fashion, style, or the theme of your boutique. You can use tools like Google Trends or ahrefs to get ideas.
• Combine Words: Experiment with combining relevant words to create a unique and catchy name. Consider using your own name or a unique word to add a personal touch.
• Consider Location: If your boutique is in a desirable location or you’ll be selling goods made in and imported from a noteworthy place, consider incorporating it into the name. Alternatively, think about using words associated with your locale or region.

Remember that your boutique name is a crucial part of your brand, so take the time to find a name that you love and that will resonate with your customers. Don't rush the process, and consider seeking input from others to gather different perspectives.

Great boutique name examples

Portland Gear: Portland Gear says it’s “more than just a brand” and calls itself “a vibrant community united by [its] profound love for the unique city of Portland, Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.” Its name is perfect for the collection of Portland-forward graphic tees, hoodies, bags, and accessories it offers in stores and online.

Urbanity: Lee Smith came up with the name Urbanity in 2009 by combining urban and humanity. Check out our interview with him below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wUc28d8KkE

How to register your boutique name

Registering your boutique name is a crucial step in establishing and protecting your brand. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to register your boutique name:

1. Check Availability: Before you fall in love with a name, ensure that it is not already in use by another business, especially one within your industry and location. Search online, check business directories, and look into trademark databases to verify the availability of your chosen name.
2. Perform a Trademark Search: Conduct a thorough trademark search to ensure that your chosen name is not already trademarked by another business. This step is crucial for legal protection and preventing potential infringement issues.
3. Buy the Domain: In today's digital age, having an online presence is vital. Check the availability of your boutique name as a domain to secure a matching website address. Even if you don't plan to launch a website immediately, it's wise to secure the domain for future use.
4. Form the Legal Structure: Determine the legal structure of your boutique, whether it's a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation. The structure you choose will affect the registration process.
5. Register With Your Local Business Authority: Register your boutique name with the appropriate local business authority. The process varies depending on your location, but it often involves filing a "Doing Business As" (DBA) or trade name registration with the county clerk's office or a similar local agency.
6. Register the Trademark Registration: While not mandatory, registering your boutique name as a trademark with the relevant intellectual property office provides additional legal protection. This is especially important if you plan to expand your business nationally or internationally.
7. Sign up for Online Platforms and Social Media: Secure your boutique name on popular social media platforms and online marketplaces, even if you don't plan to use them immediately. Consistent branding across various channels strengthens your online presence.
8. Renew and Maintain: Keep track of renewal requirements for your business registration and trademark, if applicable. Regularly update your contact information to receive renewal notices.

By following these steps, you can successfully register your boutique name, establish a strong brand identity, and protect your business from potential legal issues. Consult with legal professionals or business advisors if you have specific questions or concerns about the registration process in your area.

Next steps after naming your boutique

Finding the perfect name for your boutique is a thrilling and essential part of launching your business

With a wealth of options ranging from catchy and cool to funny and professional, you have a diverse array of boutique names to choose from. Whether you prefer a creative, personal, or location-based approach, the key is to encapsulate the essence of your brand.

Great boutique names are all about uniqueness, memorability, and a connection to your target audience. A good boutique name should stand out in a crowded market, leaving a lasting impression on your customers.

In addition to providing hundreds of name ideas, we’ve helped you understand what to consider when naming a boutique and how to register it when you choose a name.

In the end, your boutique name is more than just a string of words—it's the foundation of your brand identity. Choose wisely, register diligently, and watch as your boutique name becomes synonymous with style, quality, and a shopping experience that leaves a lasting impression on your customers. Happy naming!

Starting a business doesn’t have to break the bank. Many small business owners start low-cost business ideas with high profit and become extraordinarily successful. 

We’ve talked to hundreds of small business owners to find out the recipe they used to turn small business ideas into a profitable business model. 

My personal favorite interview was with the candle business owner, who’s a phenomenal success story! She lost her job in the pandemic and turned $500 into $150K within 3 months.

[su_note note_color="#dbeafc"]

We share some of the most successful small business ideas with you. Just click on the category you like to find out more.

• 7 High-Margin Businesses That Are Cheap to Start
• 6 Easy Start-up Businesses to Own your Own Business Today
• 10 Online Business Ideas with High Profit Margins and Low Startup Costs
• 10 More Low-Cost Businesses to Start
  

  [/su_note]

 Make sure to read them all to find a low-cost business idea you’ll love.

Authors Note

Many businesses that are cheap to start have low average profit margins. This is because people will attempt to start them and not put in the time or money to market them and implement useful business systems. These business owners earn a negative profit margin, which brings down the average profit margin. We rank these businesses based on what business owners make when they dedicate themselves to implementing industry best practices.

7 High-Margin Businesses That Are Cheap to Start

#1. Cleaning business 

Average Annual Revenue: $74,880
Average Profit Margins: 6.7%
Startup Costs: $1K-$30K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.2%
Best for: system-focused and detail-oriented entrepreneurs with strong customer service skills

A cleaning business is one of the most profitable business ideas that you can start from your home with just a few hundred dollars. All you need is basic equipment like a vacuum, broom, and mop, and standard household cleaners—things that most people already have. While 6.7% doesn't sound like a lot, many of the costs are items like your salary and home office expenses, which help with your cost of living.

If you have more cash available, you can invest in marketing to grow your customer base faster. That was part of Chris Mondragon’s $5,000 startup budget for Queen Bee Cleaning. Today, his cleaning business averages $1.5 million a year in revenue.

Chris shares his business model and how to get started step-by-step in his 7-figure Cleaning Business Blueprint. He also shares some of those insights in this YouTube interview:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YcYIYdqegGA"]

#2. Vending business

Average Annual Revenue: $182,100
Average Profit Margins: 4.3%
Startup Costs: $2K-$10K
Time To Revenue: 3+ months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 0.5%
Best for: organized entrepreneurs with strong sales skills, people with machine repair skills

Vending business operators earned more than $10 billion in revenue in 2022, a market increase of 3.8% compared to 2021. That growth is projected to continue, making it one of the top profitable business ideas for entrepreneurs looking for a flexible schedule and passive income potential. 

The cost to start a small business in vending depends on a few factors. The cheapest way to start is by buying a few used machines and finding high-traffic places to put them. If you have a larger budget, you can save yourself some time and work by purchasing an existing route.

While the average profit margin is only 4.3%, you can make up to 30% profit margins. Find out how Adam Hill of Hill Vending built a $60,000-a-month vending business in The Vending Bootcamp. He also talked to UpFlip about how to start such a business the right way in this YouTube interview:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-s_Y-O1nosw"]

Another nice thing about vending is that it doesn’t require any previous knowledge or a large time commitment. You can make good money in vending with just a few hours invested each week, making it a great low-cost business to start as a side hustle. 

#3. Consulting business

Average Annual Revenue: $363,049
Average Profit Margins: 6.4%
Startup Costs: $1K-$3.5M
Time To Revenue: 6-18 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 2.2%
Best for: excellent communicators with strong problem solving and analytical skills, people with in-demand industry expertise

Consulting can be a very profitable business idea, and you don’t need to invest much to start a successful business. The main thing you need is expertise, either in a specific industry or in key areas like leadership, technology, or business systems and management. 

Ryan Gromfin turned his experience managing 5-star restaurants into a $35,000-a-month restaurant consulting business. Hear how he did it here:

The most challenging part of starting your own business as a consultant is building your brand and reputation. Leveraging your professional network can help grow your consulting business faster. You can also build authority online through your social media accounts or by sharing knowledge on a blog, podcast, or YouTube channel. 

#4. Event planning business

Average Annual Revenue: $34,380
Average Profit Margins: 12.2%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 3+ months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1%
Best for: extroverts and outgoing entrepreneurs, people with strong organization, networking, and creative problem-solving skills

Planning events can be stressful and time-consuming, even when it’s something fun and exciting like a wedding or a kid’s birthday party. That’s why people often pay professionals to do the planning for them, and what makes this a great business idea for skilled planners and multitaskers who can rise to that challenge. 

Event planning is a low-overhead business and a cheap business to start from home. The client is the one who pays for the space and supplies, and there’s no need for expensive equipment or complicated licensing to get started.

What you will need are connections, both with other businesses in your area and with people who will book your services. That’s why an event planning business is a good business idea for people with experience in hospitality, tourism, and food service who already have a professional network they can build on. You can still start a profitable business without this background, but it will likely take longer to grow your client base and revenue. 

#5. Floor coating business

Average Annual Revenue: $1,291,480
Average Profit Margins: 2.8%
Startup Costs: $100K-$3.5M
Time To Revenue: 6-18 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: -0.1%
Best for: system and detail-oriented entrepreneurs who like working with their hands

Epoxy floor coating is a popular way for businesses and homeowners to protect their floors in spaces like garages, basements, warehouses, or factories. 

It’s also a $2.3 billion industry with a projected CAGR of 5.5% through 2030. This growth and revenue potential puts it among the top new business opportunities for entrepreneurs with backgrounds in construction and similar areas.

While the startup expenses are higher for a floor coating business than some on this list, it still deserves a place among low-cost business ideas. You can expect to spend around $5,000-$8,000 for the equipment and initial inventory, plus another $1,000-$2,000 for your license, permits, and insurance. 

Once you’re up and running, you can expect to see margins of 38-45% on the revenue you make. You can learn more about starting an epoxy business in this interview with Wise Coatings founder Brandon Vaughn:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6mghjqijuU"]

#6. Wedding photography business

Average Annual Revenue: $50K
Average Profit Margins: 7.3%
Startup Costs: $1K-$10K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 0.3%
Best for: photographers, videographers, visual artists, and designers with strong communication and customer service skills

Though it took a big hit during the height of the pandemic, the wedding industry has bounced back in a huge way. The number of weddings in the U.S. spiked to 2.47 million in 2022 and is expected to remain above 2 million a year through 2025. That makes this the ideal time to start a profitable small business as a wedding photographer.

If you’re starting from scratch, you will need to budget around $3,000-$5,000 for equipment. The basic supplies you’ll need and their average cost are below:

• Professional camera ($1,000-$2,000)
• Camera lenses ($1,000-$1,500)
• Lights and backdrops ($500-$1,000)
• Memory cards and storage drives ($100-$150)
• Tripod and other accessories ($200-$250)
• Photoshop or other editing software ($20-$25 per month)

If you already have high-quality photography equipment, though, it’s a very low-cost business to start. 

Connecting with event planners, caterers, and other small business owners in the wedding industry is the best way to start building your client list as a wedding photographer. It’s also smart to make your own website where you can showcase your past work. You can find more advice on starting a photography business in this how-to post on the UpFlip blog. 

#7. House painting business

Average Annual Revenue: $76,857
Average Profit Margins: 7.2%
Startup Costs: $1K-$100K
Time To Revenue: 6-18 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: -2%
Best for: contractors and construction workers, painters and visual artists, detail-oriented entrepreneurs with customer service skills who like working outdoors

Unlike other jobs in the home construction and repair business, you don’t need specialized training or certifications to start a painting business. 

In fact, all you really need is basic equipment like a ladder and some brushes. As you grow, you can invest your earnings into more sophisticated equipment like scaffolding or paint sprayers. 

You can make even more with a painting business if you have specialized skills like painting murals or using trendy painting techniques and styles. There’s a big demand for basic painting services too, though, in both the residential and commercial sectors. 

The variety of customers available is what puts painting among the most lucrative businesses to start. The industry grew at a CAGR of 4.1% from 2018-2021 and is expected to grow another 5.8% through 2030.

You can learn more about how to start a painting business by listening to this interview with Arizona Painting Company owner Doug Caris. He’s grown the business to more than $2 million in monthly revenue since he bought it in 2014:

6 Easy Start-up Businesses to Own your Own Business Today

#8. Mobile detailing business

Average Annual Revenue: $241,230
Average Profit Margins: 16.1%
Startup Costs: $1K-$100K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.8%
Best for: car lovers and cleaning experts, detail-oriented entrepreneurs with good customer service skills

Like other cleaning businesses, a mobile detailing or car wash business has a low barrier to entry. It doesn’t require any specialized knowledge or prior experience. It’s also a low-cost start-up business, and you can get all the tools and supplies you’ll need to start for around $500-$1,000.

You can make good money with a car wash business, too. The industry has fairly high profit margins, especially if you operate as a solopreneur. To give one example, GoDetail averages 60% profit on their $900,000-a-year revenue. Hear how they started in this video:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riTWH_MG6Uc&list=PLaU6uY9Yy7XkECNQPPT_LNAxEghhffqv7&index=3"]

#9. Personal training business

Average Annual Revenue: $16,867
Average Profit Margins: 10.9%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 0.6%
Best for: athletes, fitness experts, strong motivators and communicators

Being a personal trainer is a lucrative business idea for athletes, fitness instructors, and people who love going to the gym. Your knowledge of health and exercise is the main value you bring clients, and it’s an easy start-up business if you already have this expertise.

Just look at how Bedros Keuilian used his passion and expertise in fitness to build several successful franchises and a business coaching company to help motivate others to unlock their true potential.

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXdFpkfXvGA&ab_channel=UpFlip"]

One reason a personal trainer is a low-investment business is that you don’t need a physical space or your own equipment. You can start off working with clients in gyms, community centers, or their own homes.

Some states do require a personal training business owner to have certification through an organization like NASM or ISSA, which costs between $500 and $2,000 depending on the program. It’s also smart to get liability insurance, which will cost around $200-$300 a year on average. 

Those are low costs compared to many profitable business ideas, though, and the ongoing costs of running a personal trainer business are minimal.  

#10. Landscaping and lawn care 

Average Annual Revenue: $272,790
Average Profit Margins: 8.7%
Startup Costs: $1K-$100K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 8.1%
Best for: entrepreneurs with high physical stamina, attention to detail, and customer service skills

Landscaping is among the best small business ideas for people who love being outside. Lawn care has a low barrier to entry because you don’t need specialized training or equipment to get started, just a lawn mower and a few other basic garden tools you can get at any home improvement store. 

The downside of working in lawn care is that it can be a physically demanding job that sometimes means working in unpleasant weather. For some people, though, the chance to work outdoors is a pro, so it all depends on what you want from your employment. 

As far as what you can make, a landscaping or lawn care business owner can easily earn $10,000 or more a month. Trevor Kokenge started Plan-It Vision with $300 out of his apartment, and now he makes around $22,000 a month with 30% margins. Hear his story in this interview:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQdsCmVFPGI&list=PLaU6uY9Yy7Xk_AjUgCgvs6gxYuSFNHBJW&index=4"]

#11. Pet sitting business

Average Annual Revenue: $34,380
Average Profit Margins: 16%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 3+ months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.7%
Best for: animal owners and experts who are flexible, patient, empathetic, and strong communicators

Similar to dog walking, a pet sitting business is among the best small business ideas for animal lovers to start with little money. The only expenses to start your own business as a pet sitter are the license and branding materials like your own website or listings on sites like Craigslist and Yelp.

Being able to care for a range of different animal species expands your potential for pet sitting clients. While dogs and cats are the most common, you can charge a premium to watch exotic pets like birds, reptiles, or tropical fish that have unique, specific care requirements. 

#12. Pressure washing business

Average Annual Revenue: $64K
Average Profit Margins: 8.8%
Startup Costs: $200-$5K
Time To Revenue: 3+ months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 0.9%
Best for: people with a sharp eye for details and strong customer service skills

Pressure washing is another top option for people who like physical work seeking low-cost business ideas to start. Just invest a few hundred dollars into a professional power washer, and you can start cleaning people’s homes, sidewalks, and driveways. 

Chase Lilie started his power washing business, Wizard Wash, with $3,000 as a teenager. In his first year, he grew to $12,000 a month with margins up to 60%—and that’s just the beginning. Hear how Chase did it in this interview:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNzuP6V0UhA"]

#13. T-Shirt printing business

Average Annual Revenue: $147K
Average Profit Margins: 3.2%
Startup Costs: $1K-$200K, depending on size
Time To Revenue: 30-90 days
Annual Market Growth Rate: 3.3%
Best for: graphic designers and creative entrepreneurs, people with strong customer service and marketing skills

Custom apparel is a huge market. It’s already a $3.2 billion industry, and it’s expected to grow by another $1.8 billion by 2027. That’s because lots of people need these services, from individuals and community groups to sports teams, small businesses, and corporate clients creating marketing and branding promotions. 

You can start a custom apparel business for just a few hundred dollars if you do it as a print-on-demand online store. A brick-and-mortar location has higher start-up costs but also opens up the potential for more revenue, so it all depends on your growth goals and budget.

Sanford Booth makes around $500,000 a year with his t-shirt printing business, and that’s a very achievable revenue in this industry. Hear how he got started in this interview:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmYCYMAsQ8Y"]

10 Online Business Ideas with High Profit Margins and Low Startup Costs

#14. Affiliate marketing business

Average Annual Revenue: $60K-$160K
Average Profit Margins: 8%
Startup Costs: $100-$2K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 10.5%
Best for: influencers, bloggers, entrepreneurs with a large online presence and digital marketing skills

Affiliate marketing is among the top low-cost business ideas with high profit and the potential to earn passive income. As an affiliate marketer, you promote other people’s products and services, earning a commission whenever a customer buys through you. 

Being an affiliate marketer is a great way to earn money working anywhere, anytime. That makes it ideal for travelers and digital nomads, and it has low ongoing costs since you don’t need to worry about inventory, shipping, or other costs associated with eCommerce businesses.

It’s also a profitable online business for people who are active on social media platforms or otherwise have a large online presence. Matt Diggity earns around $400,000 a month from affiliate marketing. Listen to this podcast interview to hear his advice on how to succeed in this space:

#15. Social media marketing or digital marketing business

Average Annual Revenue: $817K
Average Profit Margins: 6.9%
Startup Costs: $100-$10K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.3%
Best for: advertising, branding, and marketing experts, creative problem-solvers and content creators

Social media marketing is the best way for small business owners to engage with customers. Not every business owner has the time or skills to get the full value out of their social media accounts, though.

That’s what makes being a social media manager such a lucrative business idea. With a digital marketing firm, you can earn money from your knowledge of social media platforms while helping other businesses expand their brand and business. 

Not only is there a high demand for social media management services, and the potential for high profit margins, but a digital marketing firm is among the best low-investment business ideas. You can run it easily from home and don’t need any specialized tools or equipment. All you need is to attract clients and you can start making money online from your skills. 

Jason from Socialistics shared his advice on how to start a social media marketing firm in an interview with UpFlip. Check out his interview if you want to learn how he makes $500,000 a year from providing social media management services: 

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kb1czTEK8f8"]

#16. Dropshipping business

Average Annual Revenue: $36K-$50K
Average Profit Margins: 5%
Startup Costs: $150-$500
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 25%
Best for: systems- and strategy-oriented entrepreneurs; people seeking flexibility and passive income; people with strong sales and marketing skills

If you’re looking for the best business to start with little money, dropshipping is a great choice. All you need to start is to set up an online store—no need to worry about inventory, shipping, or the other expenses and hassles of selling products. 

Building a customer base is often the most challenging part of starting a dropshipping business. The most lucrative businesses in this niche are run by people who excel at digital marketing, though you can also learn those skills as you grow if you don’t have them from the start. 

Heather Johnson started her online business as a dropshipper as a side hustle when her hours were cut during the pandemic. She quickly grew it into her full-time business. Find out how she did it in this interview:

#17. Offer online tutoring services

Average Annual Revenue: $18,170
Average Profit Margins: 13.10%
Startup Costs: $100-$1K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 8.5%
Best for: educators, teachers, tutors, people with in-demand skills or knowledge who are effective communicators

If you’re skilled at explaining complex concepts and are looking for low-cost start-up businesses, a tutoring business can be a great choice. While the average rate for an online tutor is around $20 an hour, that includes student and part-time tutors. Those who have expertise in advanced subject areas can earn $50 or more per hour for their time and knowledge. 

Not only is being a tutor a low-cost business idea, but it’s also incredibly easy to get started. You don’t even need to create your own website to run with this successful business idea. Just set up a profile on one of the tutoring websites that already exists. Some of the most popular include:

• Preply - For teaching academic subjects and exam prep
• Wyzant - For subject matter experts in a range of topics
• TutorMe - For those with a college degree in their speciality area
• TakeLessons - For teaching either academic subjects or creative skills

#18. Online course business

Average Annual Revenue: $30K-$50K
Average Profit Margins: 13.10%
Startup Costs: $100-$1K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 8.5%
Best for: teachers, writers, people with in-demand or niche skill sets, those seeking flexibility and passive income

Making and selling online courses can be a successful business idea on its own. It’s also an excellent way to add an extra income stream to another business model, like a podcast, YouTube channel, or other online business. 

If you make the online course yourself, the startup costs are minimal. Course hosting platforms like Teachable and Coursify.me have free plan options and make it easy to upload and sell your online courses to students. 

The flip side of this is that making an online course can be a big time investment. Once it’s finished and uploaded, though, it’s mostly passive, save whatever time you put into marketing and promoting it. 

Jacques Hopkins is living proof that online courses are a lucrative business idea. He makes an average revenue of $40,000 a month with 50% profit margins from his online course business. Hear how he did it in this interview:

#19. Search engine optimization (SEO) consulting business

Average Annual Revenue: $415,840
Average Profit Margins: 7.3%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 4.6%
Best for: content writers, digital marketing experts, people with strong data analysis and critical thinking skills

Experienced SEO consultants charge an average rate of $100-$150 per hour. That’s $200,000-$300,000 a year if you work full-time as a solo entrepreneur, and the profit potential jumps up even more if you start an agency. 

What really makes being a search engine optimization consultant one of the best online business ideas is the high demand for these services. SEO services were a $46.7 billion industry in 2021 and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 17.6% through 2030. 

You don’t need deep pockets to start this kind of business, either. You can start off using free tools and expand your systems as you grow. All told, that puts an SEO agency among the top low-cost business ideas with high profit potential. 

#20. Start your own online store

Average Annual Revenue: $60K-$120K
Average Profit Margins: 5-15%
Startup Costs: $100-$10K
Time To Revenue: 30-90 days
Annual Market Growth Rate: -9.3%
Best for: creative and crafty entrepreneurs, people with strong sales, marketing, and customer service skills

Opening your own online store is among the best online businesses because of the variety of people who can thrive with this business model. 

You can sell pretty much anything in an online store, from hand-crafted goods like jewelry or home decor to collectibles and vintage clothes you buy in thrift stores.

Regardless of what you sell, your costs will be much lower with an online store than with a brick-and-mortar retail space. You’ll also enjoy the flexibility of working when and how much you choose, and you can earn money faster since you can start selling as soon as you have your initial inventory.

The exact startup costs for an online store depend on what you sell. Vlad Kuksenko only spent about $500 to start TagPup. Two years later, he was earning $60,000 a month with 50% margins. Hear his advice in this interview:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7b_58Bppsb4"]

#21. Start an SaaS software business

Average Annual Revenue: $400K-$1M+
Average Profit Margins: 14.5%
Startup Costs: $100-$50K, depending on size and scope
Time To Revenue: 3 months to 2 years
Annual Market Growth Rate: 3.1%
Best for: programmers and developers with communication, customer service, and digital marketing skills

Helping people solve a problem is always a great way to earn money with a business. Starting a software-as-a-service (SaaS) company lets you do that on a global scale. It’s also one of the top businesses with low startup costs if you have the developer skills to build the software yourself. 

The average revenue of publicly-traded SaaS companies is $190,000-$210,000 per employee per year, so there’s certainly high potential for profit in this sector. 

Workello founder Nick Jordan is living proof of how profitable an SaaS company can be. He pivoted his content agency into an SaaS business model in 2022 and is now bringing in a revenue of over $70,000 a month. Find out how he grew his business in this podcast interview:

#22. Website design or development

Average Annual Revenue: $239K+
Average Profit Margins: 5.3%
Startup Costs: $100-$1K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.4%
Best for: graphic designers, programmers and developers, SEO and digital marketing pros

In this day and age, a website is a must-have for small businesses and entrepreneurs in just about every industry. Not all of them have the skills or time to create and maintain their own online presence, though. If you do have those skills, you can start a very profitable business designing websites for them. 

Web design is an easy business to run from home as a solo entrepreneur and ideal for people who want to work on their own schedule. It also doesn’t cost much to start. In fact, you can start for free as a freelancer by creating a profile on a marketplace like Upwork or Toptal.

Having a portfolio of work to show potential clients will help you land those crucial first clients and start growing your business. Making your own website is a good start, or you can talk to friends and family who need a website (or an upgrade to their current one) to flesh out your portfolio with more examples of your work. 

#23. Sell stock photography

Average Annual Revenue: $50K
Average Profit Margins: 7.3%
Startup Costs: $1K-$10K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 0.3%
Best for: photographers and visual artists looking for a flexible schedule and passive income stream

The only expense to start a business selling stock images is the camera you’ll use to take the photos. If you already have that, you can start making money right away for no extra investment. 

It’s also incredibly easy to start a stock photography business. Just take the pictures, upload them to a stock photo platform, and let the revenue start coming in. Each time someone buys one of your images, you’ll get royalties that can range from 15–50% depending on the site and image. 

Many stock photo platforms also don’t require exclusive rights to images, meaning you can have them on multiple platforms at the same time to maximize your earning potential. 

Here are some of the top platforms for selling stock photos:

• iStockPhoto - 15-45% royalties depending on image popularity
• Alamy - 50% royalties for each image
• Shutterstock - up to 30% royalties
• Dreamstime - 25-45% royalties for non-exclusive images

10 More Low-Cost Businesses to Start 

#24. Car wrapping business

Average Annual Revenue: $241,230
Average Profit Margins: 16.1%
Startup Costs: $1K-$100K
Time To Revenue: 1-6 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.8%
Best for: gearheads and car lovers, visual artists and graphic designers

There are a few reasons someone might get their car wrapped. For people who own luxury cars, it’s a way to protect their paint or quickly add graphics like racing stripes. Business owners and corporate clients often instead use car wrapping as a form of branding and marketing. 

That diversity of potential customers is what makes car wrapping a profitable business idea. You can expand your revenue streams if you also throw services like ceramic coating or detailing into the mix. 

Learning to wrap a car can take a bit of practice, but the tools are easily accessible and affordable, and you don’t need training or a specialized license to run this kind of business. 

While most new car wrapping businesses have an initial budget of around $2,000-$5,000, you can start one for less if you need to. Fred Roman spent about a hundred bucks to start WrapCo, and he’s grown it to a revenue of around $70,000 a month. Find out how he did it in this interview: 

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM1wFesfapQ"]

#25. Test prep business

Average Annual Revenue: $389,500
Average Profit Margins: 8.3%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 2.0%
Best for: teachers, tutors, excellent motivators and communicators

A test prep business is similar to working as a tutor but with a more specific focus: helping students prepare for tests like the SAT, ACT, GED, or similar standardized exams. 

The consistent demand for these services is what puts it among the best low-overhead business ideas for educators. More than 1.7 million high schoolers took the SAT in 2022, for instance, many of whom used test prep services to get ready for their test. 

High school-level standardized tests aren’t the only exams students need to prepare for, either. If you have the right knowledge and skills, you can also help people prepare for college-level exams, like the GRE or LSAT. 

Experienced test prep tutors can charge anywhere from $30-$100 per hour depending on the test and where they’re located, so there’s definitely a high profit potential in this industry. 

#26. Handyman business

Average Annual Revenue: $204,700
Average Profit Margins: 5.4%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 3+ months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 0.7%
Best for: builders, makers, construction workers, mechanics, and repair experts

Homeowners know that a good handyman is hard to find. There’s a consistent demand for reliable, qualified handymen across the United States, and the market is growing. Handyman salaries have gone up 11% over the last 5 years and the industry’s expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% through 2028. 

Best of all, the revenue you earn as a handyman is mostly profit. You get paid for the time you spend on the job and can bill the client for any required parts or supplies. 

Caleb Ingraham makes around $1,000 a day as a handyman—and he could make more if he had a team. He’s consistently booked up about 6 weeks in advance. See how he built his business in this interview: 

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leUta_q_MPQ"]

#27. Life coaching business

Average Annual Revenue: $63,400
Average Profit Margins: 10.5%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.5%
Best for: empathetic entrepreneurs with strong motivation and communication skills

If you’re the person your friends and family always turn to for advice, then being a life coach is among the top low-cost business ideas with high profit potential. 

The average life coach makes between $500 and $1,500 per client per month, and the overhead costs are minimal, especially if you meet with clients in their home or via online appointments. 

Like with other kinds of consulting, the challenge with starting a life coaching business is convincing clients that you’re worth the investment. Getting certified as a life coach can go a long way toward building this trust. Some of the top programs include the following:

• Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching - Comprehensive 7-9 month program, total cost of $13,395
• Certified Life Coach Institute - Online accreditation in 3 days for $995 
• Integrative Wellness Academy - Earn an advanced master certification in 6 months for $2,499 

#28. Candle making business

Average Annual Revenue: $60K-$120K
Average Profit Margins: 5-15%
Startup Costs: $100-$10K
Time To Revenue: 30-90 days
Annual Market Growth Rate: -9.3%
Best for: makers, artists, and crafty entrepreneurs

Candles are a consumable product, which means customers will keep coming back for more if they like what you do. They’re also very affordable and easy to make right in your home.

Jazmin Richards started making candles as a hobby. When she decided to turn it into a business, she spent around $100 on Instagram ads and quickly grew a following, making more than $300,000 in revenue in her first 18 months. She explains how she built her business in this interview:

[su_youtube url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzZ5aTbiLh0"]

As far as where to sell your candles, you don’t need your own retail space. You can open an online store, get booths at farmers markets and art festivals, or talk to local stores about carrying your candles on their shelves. 

#29. Tax preparation services 

Average Annual Revenue: $1.57M
Average Profit Margins: 18%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months (not including time training as a CPA)
Annual Market Growth Rate: 1.7%
Best for: accountants, finance and legal experts and professionals, people with strong math skills and a sharp eye for details

Lots of people feel instant stress and anxiety at the thought of filing taxes. That’s why Americans spend more than $14 billion on tax preparation in an average year. A good portion of that is for simple returns with a 1040 that anyone can learn to file without needing special training. 

While you do need to be certified to become a tax preparation professional, it’s a very simple process. You can get a preparer tax identification number (PTIN) online for about $30, and most people can complete the application in about 15 minutes. 

If you want to file more complicated taxes for self-employed people or businesses, the IRS offers virtual tax workshops that can give you the skills and knowledge you need. 

#30. Offer mobile notary services

Average Annual Revenue: $552,900
Average Profit Margins: 9.4%
Startup Costs: $500-$5K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: -0.5%
Best for: legal and administrative professionals, people with strong customer service skills and a sharp eye for detail

A notary public’s role is to make oaths, contracts, and other legal documents official by confirming the identity of the signers. You may be surprised by how much you can earn as a notary. Roughly 66% of full-time mobile notaries earn $4,000 or more a month, and the overhead costs are minimal. 

Each state has its own process for becoming a notary public. Normally, it involves attending a few hours of classes and paying a small licensing fee. This can often be done online, making the process of getting started even easier. 

#31. Childcare business

Average Annual Revenue: $143,110
Average Profit Margins: 9.3%-51.7%
Startup Costs: $0-$1K
Time To Revenue: 1-3 months
Annual Market Growth Rate: .9%
Best for: parents, teachers, nurses, and healthcare pros; empathetic and organized entrepreneurs who are strong multitaskers

During the pandemic, 19.6% of working-age adults had to leave the workforce because they couldn’t find child care. While schools have since reopened, this illustrated the need for childcare services in the United States. 

That’s part of the reason for the childcare industry’s recent growth. The industry is valued at over $60 billion in 2022, and that’s expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.18% through 2030.

The cost to start a daycare, nanny service, or other childcare business varies, but they tend to be cheap businesses to start, especially if you start it from your home. Combine that with most of the revenue is your own personal salary and business expenses related to your home, 

Home-based daycare centers also often don’t need to obtain the same licenses and certifications as other childcare businesses. Check your state’s laws and requirements to see what’s required to legally operate in your region. 

Did you know craft business owners are expected to make 50% more in 2028 than they did last year?

That means there’s a lot of demand for handmade craft business names. Choosing a great craft business name can give you a headstart in competing for potential customers.

Here, we discuss the craft industry, what makes a good craft business name, catchy craft names for your business, and how to register your craft company name.

[su_note note_color="#dbeafc"] Click on any of the links below to jump ahead in your artistic journey.

• Craft Business Industry Outlook
• What Makes a Good Craft Business Name?
• What Should I Name My Craft Business?
• 30 Catchy Craft Business Names
• 34 Cool Craft Business Names
• 36 Funny Craft Business Names
• 34 Creative Craft Business Names
• 30 Professional Craft Business Names
• 20 Personal Craft Business Names
• 34 Location-Based Craft Business Names
• 40 Handmade Craft Business Names
• 30 Creative Shop Name Ideas
• 28 Unique Craft Business Names
• 30 Clever Business Names for Crafters
• 32 Cute Shop Names for Crafts
• 32 Jewelry Business Name Ideas
• 30 Crochet Business Name Ideas
• How to Register Your Craft Business Names
• Next Steps After Naming Your Craft Business[/su_note]

Craft Business Industry Outlook

Craft businesses are expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.69% and reach $68 billion in industry revenue by 2028. That means a crafting business should expect to see considerable growth in the future if it provides quality handmade crafts.

What Makes a Good Craft Business Name?

A good craft business name should be:

• Memorable: Your business name should be easy to remember and pronounce.
• Relevant: Your business name should reflect the type of crafts you make and sell.
• Unique: Your business name should be unique and not already in use by another business.
• Professional: Your business name should sound professional and trustworthy.
• Appealing: Your business name should be appealing to your target audience.

Let’s look at some of the different ways of creating a catchy craft business name.

What Should I Name My Craft Business?

The best craft business names help you attract customers and communicate what your crafting business does. We’ll cover all kinds of timeless craft business names, including:

• Catchy business names for craft companies
• Cool craft names
• Funny craft names
• Creative name ideas
• Professional names for craft products
• Personal name ideas for craft business owners
• Location-based craft business naming ideas
• Business names perfect for handmade products

Keep reading to get your creative juices flowing. You’re sure to find unique craft business names that you love.

30 Catchy Craft Business Names

Consider one of these business name ideas when you start selling your crafts.

Pro Tip: Once you have a catchy business name, check if the corresponding domain name is available. Just input the name in the search bar of your web browser and see what comes up. If the website and the social media handles are available, you will have a much easier time attracting customers.

34 Cool Craft Business Names

You can create a cool craft brand by combining two or more words to create a new and memorable phrase. This works especially well if they are keywords related to craft businesses.

Pro Tip: Rhyming words can also be used to come up with crafty business name ideas.

36 Funny Craft Business Names

If your craft business offers products that are defined by their silly or goofy vibe, you might want to go with funny business names for crafts.

Pro Tip: When choosing a funny craft business name, it's important to strike the right balance of humor and professionalism. You want your name to be memorable and attention-grabbing, but you also don't want to alienate potential customers.

Here are a few tips for choosing a funny craft business name:

• Use puns or wordplay. This is a great way to add humor to your name without being too over the top.
• Choose a name that is relevant to your products or services. This will help customers understand what your business is all about.
• Keep it short and sweet. A long, complicated name is less likely to be remembered than a short, catchy one.
• Avoid using offensive or vulgar language. This could alienate potential customers and damage your reputation.

34 Creative Craft Business Names

Want to create a craft business brand that stands out from other crafters? Consider some of these craft business names.

Pro Tip: You might incorporate some of your specific craft supplies’ names as you’re brainstorming creative small business names for craft companies.

30 Professional Craft Business Names

Professionalism can make all the difference to craft store customers. Consider some of these names to differentiate yourself from other businesses.

Pro Tip: Your business name ideas should help people understand what you do. You don’t want to confuse customers.

20 Personal Craft Business Names

When it comes to personal business names, ideas might include your first name, last name, or something or someone dear to you. Consider some of these creative names for business owners.

Pro Tip: Adding a personal touch to business name ideas helps make your craft store name more relatable to your target customers.

34 Location-Based Craft Business Names

Using your location as part of your craft business name is a great way of selling arts locally.

Pro Tip: You might also try cute business names using nicknames for your region.

40 Handmade Craft Business Names

Handmade craft business name ideas can help show that your specific craft is done by hand. See if any of these unique business names for handmade crafts is a win for your business.

30 Creative Shop Name Ideas

Whether you’re looking for an Etsy shop name or are opening a brick-and-mortar retail store selling your crafts, a great shop name can help your business thrive. Consider some of these craft business name ideas. 

28 Unique Craft Business Names

Want unique craft business name ideas? Here are a few examples.

30 Clever Business Names for Crafters

Craft business name ideas should show off how crafty you are. What better way than to come up with a clever company name? Try some of these craft business name ideas.

32 Cute Shop Names for Crafts

32 Jewelry Business Name Ideas

A jewelry company is often focused on crafting and will be appealing to its customers’ aesthetic sensibility. You might try some of these handmade business name ideas if you’re selling a custom jewelry line.

Want more ideas? Check out our picks for a crochet business.

30 Crochet Business Name Ideas

Many craft business owners like to crochet. Consider some of these names for crocheted crafts.

How to Register Your Craft Business Names

Now that you have plenty of craft business name inspiration, it’s time to talk about how to register your craft business’s name. You’ll want to make sure to:

1. Choose a business name. Your business name should be unique, memorable, and relevant to your products or services. It should also be available as a domain name and social media handle.
2. Check the availability of your business name. Once you have chosen a business name, you should check to see if it is available in your state. You can do this by searching the Secretary of State's website or contacting the office directly.
3. File a DBA (Doing Business As) name. If your business name is different from your legal name, you will need to file a DBA name with the county clerk's office in the county where your business is located.
4. Register your business with the IRS. You will need to register your business with the IRS to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). You can do this online or by mail.
5. Obtain the necessary licenses and permits. Depending on the type of craft business you are operating, you may need to obtain certain licenses and permits. You can contact your local Chamber of Commerce or the Small Business Administration (SBA) for more information.

Local artisans will have so much more to accomplish for their handmade business operations to be successful. Let’s discuss some of the things you’ll need to do next.

Next Steps After Naming Your Craft Business

Once you’ve found a craft business name you love and registered it, you’ll need to start building your inventory of crafts, create a website, and start marketing your crafts. One of the best ways to market a crafts business is to record yourself making them and share your videos on social media.

What crafts business name do you like?