The Top 5 Most Profitable Home Service Businesses to Start in the US

Business and Strategy • July 8, 2025

Most people dream of becoming their own boss and starting a successful business at some point. Few actually take that leap and turn their dreams into reality. Perhaps the main reason is that they’re not sure what type of business to start. It’s easy to make a list of things you’d like to do, but will any of those ideas be profitable?

If you’ve never considered the home service industry, it offers a lot of opportunities that require relatively low startup costs but have high demand. The resilient housing market means there are always homeowners who need your services. Are you ready to take control of your life and build something to be proud of? This guide will walk you through the top five most profitable home service businesses you can start in the U.S.

5. House Cleaning

Kicking off the list is one of the most in-demand services. In our fast-paced world, more and more homeowners are willing to pay for the convenience and quality of a professional cleaning service. It is also becoming a popular gift option for new parents, new homeowners, and widows. 

House cleaning is also one of the most accessible businesses to start, thanks to its low startup costs and minimal required skills. You can launch this business with a small investment in supplies and build a client base quickly through local networking and online platforms. As your reputation grows, you can easily scale by hiring a team, moving from a solo operation to a thriving local business.

4. Landscaping and Lawn Care

If you love working outdoors, a landscaping and lawn care business just might be for you. Additionally, it’s a business that will never become obsolete, as homeowners will always need this service. Keep in mind that it is typically a seasonal business, with demand dropping in the winter months and rapidly increasing in the Spring and Summer. 

The barrier to entry in landscaping and lawn care is surprisingly low. You can start by offering basic mowing and lawn maintenance services with a modest investment in decent equipment. The real potential for profits lies in scalability, however. As your business grows, you can expand your offerings into higher-margin services, such as landscape design and garden installations.

3. Plumbing

Since it’s a skilled trade, a plumbing business represents a significant step up in earning potential from the first two entries on the list. Unlike some services that homeowners might see as optional, plumbing is a basic necessity. When a pipe bursts or a drain is hopelessly clogged, homeowners don’t hesitate to call for help, making this one of the most recession-resistant businesses you can start.

While it requires formal training, licensing, and a substantial investment in tools and equipment, the plumbing business tends to be very profitable. As a trusted expert who saves the day, you can command premium rates. For those new to owning a business, this promise of financial stability can be reassuring.

2. HVAC Maintenance

Much like plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) maintenance is a skilled trade that typically enjoys year-round demand. Whether it’s sweltering summers or freezing winters, nearly every home (and business) in the US relies on climate control, making HVAC maintenance a highly resilient business.

While responding to failed air conditioners in the summer and broken heating systems in the winter are regular occurrences, the true key to long-term success in HVAC is through service contracts. You can establish a foundation of recurring revenue by conducting annual system check-ups and maintenance. This business model positions you as a trusted service provider — and ensures consistent cash flow.

1. Home Inspection

A home inspection business earns the top spot because it blends the best of the businesses on the list. It’s a highly profitable business, but it has a much lower barrier to entry compared to the skilled trades. Just as plumbing and HVAC are essential services that every homeowner needs, home inspection is required for nearly all real estate transactions. Plus, by offering a number of other services, you can generate far more revenue streams than the other businesses. 

Home inspection typically requires a much smaller initial investment. There is no costly inventory to maintain, and you don’t need a physical storefront. The business model is service-oriented, but it offers a very flexible schedule that you can control. Unlike plumbing and HVAC, it’s doubtful you’ll ever be called out for a home inspection emergency at 3 in the morning. 

Final Thoughts

Starting your own business can be a dream come true, and the home services sector offers many opportunities driven by consistent customer demand. However, even with the potential for profitability, it can be daunting to embark on this journey by yourself. That’s why many first-time entrepreneurs looking for the best home service business to start choose to join a franchise.
Franchising provides you with access to the branding, training, and ongoing support necessary to turn your dream into a reality. If you’re interested in the top entry on this list, WIN Home Inspection can help you start a franchise. With our industry-leading support, you won’t be alone on your journey to business ownership. To learn more, contact WIN Home Inspection today.

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Hailey Rodriguez is a Sr. Content Marketing Specialist with over 10 years of experience writing content. A graduate of UNC Charlotte, she holds a BA in Communications with a focus in Public Relations and Marketing. Based in Raleigh, NC, Hailey specializes in crafting engaging content around franchising, home inspection, real estate, and home services. She’s passionate about making complex topics accessible and useful for first-time home buyers, homeowners and industry professionals alike. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring new destinations—always with a notebook in hand.

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About the Author

Hailey Rodriguez

Hailey Rodriguez is a Sr. Content Marketing Specialist with over 10 years of experience writing content. A graduate of UNC Charlotte, she holds a BA in Communications with a focus in Public Relations and Marketing. Based in Raleigh, NC, Hailey specializes in crafting engaging content around franchising, home inspection, real estate, and home services. She’s passionate about making complex topics accessible and useful for first-time home buyers, homeowners and industry professionals alike. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring new destinations—always with a notebook in hand.

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