Best Service based businesses to start in College

Best Service-Based Businesses to Start in College

Hey yall,

Here’s an idea that I’ve been thinking about.

How can you start a business with little risk and low starting costs?

Those two are some of the valuable and enticing wants for starting a business.

The simple answer: service business.

Starting a service-based business in college is a fantastic way to earn extra income, gain entrepreneurial experience, and build valuable skills for the future.

I swear, every time I open up Facebook, I see a friend who has started a service business.

And I totally see why… I’m going to start one next. and you are too.

So here are the most common I find myself looking at

1. Cleaning Services

Estimated Startup Cost: $50 - $300

Cleaning services are always in demand, whether for apartments, dorms, or offices. Supplies like cleaning sprays, paper towels, and vacuum rentals are the primary costs.

These are great for those who enjoy tidiness and cleaning overall.

However, this is not for the faint of heart.

I recently had a friend tell me that while working for a friend who started a cleaning business, he had the worst experience of his life.

not to go into detail, but… let’s just say the smell of the house made his cleaning partner throw up on the floor, which he had to clean up by himself, and the full project took 14 hours over two days

but also on the same hand after my friend quit. The owner then went on to sell his business and found himself in an executive position at one of the biggest cleaning companies

Tips for Success:

• Offer deep-cleaning services before lease turnovers.

• Advertise in local Facebook groups and student housing communities.

• Provide discounts for referrals to grow your client base.

2. Window Washing

Estimated Startup Cost: $100 - $500

Window washing is another high-demand service, especially for businesses and residential properties. You’ll need squeegees, extension poles, cleaning solution, and safety gear.

Simple to master. This is one of the best ones to start

Tips for Success:

• Target commercial properties for recurring clients.

• Offer seasonal promotions (e.g., spring cleaning deals).

• Build a simple website or social media page showcasing before-and-after results.

3. Curb Painting

Estimated Startup Cost: $50 - $200

This is one that I’m personally going to start.

This is very simple to start. however, doesn't have the best profit margins

Great for making a splash in the entrepreneurship world, but Knocking doors is going to be a staple

Curb painting involves painting house numbers on curbs for homeowners. It requires spray paint, stencils, and protective gear.

Tips for Success:

• Market door-to-door in suburban neighborhoods.

• Partner with HOAs to secure bulk projects.

• Offer customized designs or reflective paint options.

4. Freelance Moving Services

Estimated Startup Cost: $0 - $1,000 (if renting a truck)

Many students and young professionals frequently move, creating a demand for moving help. You can start with basic labor services and rent a truck as needed.

Many people need just one or two extra sets of hands on a job

I would suggest starting a task rabbit account.

also reaching out to moving companies and offering a fee to help for a day.

Tips for Success:

• Charge an hourly rate or flat fee per job.

• Work with local storage facilities for referrals.

• Offer assembly/disassembly services for extra income.

5. Pool Cleaning

Estimated Startup Cost: $200 - $800

I have a friend who started this recently.

If you live in a warm climate, pool cleaning is a great seasonal business. Startup costs include skimmers, chemicals, and test kits.

Tips for Success:

• Target neighborhoods with private pools.

• Offer weekly maintenance plans.

• Upsell additional services like filter cleaning or pool shock treatments.

6. Buying an Existing Service Business

Estimated Startup Cost: $500 - $10,000+ (varies by business)

Instead of starting from scratch, consider buying an established small business. Many older entrepreneurs or students graduating may be selling their businesses at an affordable price.

Tips for Success:

• Look for businesses with existing customers.

• Negotiate a seller-financed deal to lower upfront costs.

• Learn from the previous owner before taking over.

7. Pressure Washing

Estimated Startup Cost: $300 - $1,500

Pressure washing is a lucrative business for driveways, decks, and exterior walls. You’ll need a quality pressure washer and cleaning solution.

100% start by renting!

Tips for Success:

• Advertise with before-and-after pictures.

• Offer discounts for bundled services.

• Partner with real estate agents for pre-sale cleanings.

8. Lawn Care and Landscaping

Estimated Startup Cost: $100 - $1,500

Mowing lawns, trimming bushes, and general yard maintenance are in constant demand. Initial costs include a lawnmower, trimmer, and gas.

Tips for Success:

• Start with simple mowing services and expand to landscaping.

• Offer subscription-based services for steady income.

• Build relationships with property managers and landlords.

9. Tutoring

Estimated Startup Cost: $0 - $100

Tutoring is an easy business to start if you excel in a subject. You can tutor in person or online, with no need for equipment beyond a computer and textbooks.

Tips for Success:

• Use platforms like Wyzant or TutorMe to find students.

• Offer package deals for consistent income.

• Get testimonials from students to build credibility.

10. Car Detailing

Estimated Startup Cost: $200 - $1,000

Car detailing involves deep-cleaning cars, inside and out. Essential supplies include cleaning products, vacuums, and wax.

Tips for Success:

• Provide mobile detailing services for convenience.

• Offer subscription-based maintenance plans.

• Use social media to showcase transformations.

Final Thoughts

Service-based businesses are an excellent way for college students to earn money while developing entrepreneurial skills. Focus on affordability, convenience, and quality service to attract and retain clients. By leveraging digital marketing and word-of-mouth referrals, you can turn a small side hustle into a profitable venture.

Start small, build your reputation, and scale as demand grows!

Thanks for Reading!