33 Business Ideas For Housewives [2024]

Updated: July 28th, 2024

Are you a housewife looking for new ways to balance your family responsibilities while pursuing your own business ventures? In 2024, there are fantastic opportunities that you could explore which match your skills, interests, and daily routines. This article will guide you through some practical business ideas that could fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

By choosing the right business venture, you could earn extra income without sacrificing time with your loved ones. Whether you have a passion for crafting, cooking, or online services, there's a business idea out there for you. Let's delve into some of these possibilities that could transform your everyday routine into a profitable endeavor.

For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other housewives businesses to help you see what it takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Start an etsy shop ($47.5K/month)

Starting an Etsy seller business can be a fantastic opportunity for housewives looking to supplement their income or dive into a new entrepreneurial venture. With Etsy, you could turn your creative talents into a profitable side business by selling handmade crafts, vintage items, or art supplies online. Setting up an Etsy shop is straightforward and doesn't require a large initial investment, allowing you to balance this venture with your household responsibilities.

Why starting an Etsy seller business?

  • Low startup costs make it accessible; you can begin with just a few items and scale up as you grow.
  • Flexible scheduling allows you to work on your Etsy shop when it's convenient for you, balancing family and business.
  • Creative outlet; it lets you monetize your hobbies and passions, turning your leisure activities into potential income streams.

How much you can make: $100 — $750,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How I Started A $12K/Month Business Selling Productivity Planners Online

Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.

Read by 64,214 founders

2. Start a newsletter ($213K/month)

Starting a newsletter can be a fantastic way for housewives to supplement their income or even build a full-fledged business. In the past five years, there has been more than a 50% increase in newsletter readership, making it an opportune time to dive into this growing market. A well-crafted newsletter can position you as a trusted expert, educate your subscribers, and build meaningful connections, all from the comfort of your home.

Why consider starting a newsletter?

  • Flexible work schedule: You can manage your newsletter on your own time, making it easier to balance with your household responsibilities.
  • Low startup costs: Launching a newsletter requires minimal investment, primarily your time and effort.
  • Potential for steady income: With an engaging, informative newsletter, you could attract sponsors, sell subscriptions, or offer products to generate steady revenue.

For more ideas and success stories about newsletters, click here.

How much you can make: $160 — $4,100,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

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 28,547 founders

3. Become an online dating consultant ($15.9K/month)

Starting an online dating consultant business could be a fantastic way for housewives to leverage their interpersonal skills and life experience while working from home. As an online dating consultant, you could guide clients in creating compelling profiles, crafting engaging messages, and building confidence in the world of online dating. This role allows for flexible working hours and the opportunity to make a positive impact on individuals' personal lives.

Why consider becoming an online dating consultant?

  • You could work from home and set your own hours, making it ideal for balancing family responsibilities.
  • This business requires minimal startup costs, primarily based on your expertise and online presence.
  • Helping others find meaningful relationships can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.

How much you can make: $1,300 — $30,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 47 days (?)

How I Built My Own Business Improving Online Dating Profiles

The Match Artist helps singles take amazing photos for their online dating profiles through a 3-hour executive shoot, coaching, and email course, pioneering a new genre of photography, with an average monthly revenue of $5,000-$6,000 and a plan to double down on paid ad campaigns in the future.

Read by 12,532 founders

4. Create an online course ($91.9K/month)

Starting an online course as a housewife offers a wonderful opportunity to supplement your income by leveraging your unique skills and knowledge. By identifying educational gaps in topics you are passionate about, you could create engaging video lessons and supplementary materials to cater to a wide audience. Such a platform provides you the flexibility to manage your time, allowing you to balance household responsibilities while developing a steady stream of passive income.

Once your online course is set up, you could benefit from the continued interest of lifelong learners, maximizing your initial efforts into long-term rewards. As a housewife with instructive talents, this venture involves minimal startup costs and offers significant financial returns. For more on how to get started, check out this guide on starting an online courses business.

Why create an online course?

  • It turns your expertise into a continuous revenue stream without demanding physical presence.
  • You have the chance to impact others’ lives by sharing knowledge in areas you are passionate about.
  • Managing an online course offers the flexibility to work from home, maintaining a balance with household duties.

How much you can make: $350 — $1,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 88 days (?)

How This 28-Year-Old Couple Quit Their Jobs And Make $20K/Month Running A Blog

Learn how one couple created a successful personal finance blog, The Savvy Couple, that now makes over $20,000 per month and has sold thousands of digital workbooks and courses, by focusing on purposeful content and optimizing their ROI with efficient time management.

Read by 28,754 founders

5. Start a hygiene product company ($1.18M/month)

Starting a hygiene product company can be a fantastic opportunity for a housewife looking to supplement their income or start a side business. This type of business involves producing and selling essential items such as soap, hand sanitizer, and disinfectant wipes, which are always in demand. With the right market knowledge, quality raw materials, and effective marketing, you could build a profitable venture right from your home.

Moreover, the flexibility of running a hygiene products business allows you to balance your household responsibilities while growing your enterprise at your own pace. Given the continuous market need for hygiene products, this business offers steady potential revenue and the satisfaction of contributing to public health.

Why start a hygiene product company?

  • Minimal initial investment: You can start small by making products at home and scaling up as demand grows.
  • Steady market demand: Hygiene products are essential and always in demand, ensuring consistent sales.
  • Flexibility: Manage your business from home, offering you the ability to balance family and entrepreneurial life.

How much you can make: $30,000 — $5,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 332 days (?)

How My Forward-Thinking Hygiene Solutions Company Is Thriving In COVID-19

A hygiene solutions company founded by Jonathan Bradford now earns £500k/month, after years of developing a wall-mounted antibacterial wipe dispenser that is used in health clubs, workplaces, and in over 100 locations worldwide, and also developing an electronic washroom hygiene monitor.

Read by 9,591 founders

6. Start a jewelry product ($167K/month)

Considering starting a home-based business as a housewife? A jewelry business might be the perfect blend of creativity and commerce for you. Crafting custom or unique jewelry pieces allows you to turn your artistic talents into a steady income stream. With online platforms like Etsy, you could reach a wide audience without needing a physical store.

By leveraging social media for marketing and creating limited-edition or personalized pieces, you could build a loyal customer base. Besides the artistic satisfaction, a jewelry business offers you flexible working hours, fitting well with the demands of household responsibilities. Explore this artistic avenue and turn your passion for jewelry into a profitable venture here.

Why consider starting a jewelry business?

  • Low initial investment with high potential returns.
  • Flexibility to work from home and manage your own schedule.
  • Opportunity to turn a creative hobby into a profitable business.

How much you can make: $5,000 — $415,000/month

How long does it take to build: 200 days (?)

Starting And Growing A Jewelry Business To $4.6M/Year

Taylor & Hart CEO Nikolay Piriankov tells the story of the company's journey from a diamond trading business to an award-winning, disruptive e-tailer of custom-designed, ethical engagement rings and fine jewelry, offering a bespoke design service through specifically developed technology online and instore, and growing to £4-6M in annual revenue.

Read by 20,918 founders

7. Start a bicycle company ($394K/month)

The surge in interest in biking due to the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with increased public anxiety over transportation, has created a ripe market for starting a bicycle company. As a housewife, this could be the perfect opportunity to turn a passion for cycling into a profitable business venture. By researching the market, choosing a specific niche, and focusing on producing high-quality bicycles, you could carve out a successful and eco-friendly business that complements your lifestyle.

Why start a bicycle company?

  • Home-based flexibility: The business can be operated from home, allowing you to balance family responsibilities while growing your venture.
  • Community and environmental impact: Promote a healthy lifestyle and contribute to reducing carbon emissions by encouraging local bike usage.
  • Growing market demand: The increasing popularity of biking means a larger customer base and more opportunities for growth.

For more insights into starting a bicycle company, you can explore detailed guides on Starter Story here.

How much you can make: $25,000 — $1,000,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How Two Brothers Started A $1M/Month Bicycle Brand

"Co-founders of State Bicycle Co. reveal how they bootstrapped their company to over $50M in annual sales and produced over 100,000 bikes by creating a trusted brand through word-of-mouth and social media, sponsoring talented riders, limited-edition releases, and focusing on product quality."

Read by 11,332 founders

8. Start a soap business ($67K/month)

Starting a soap business could be an ideal venture for Housewives looking to supplement their income or create a full-fledged business. The soap-making industry is thriving and offers the flexibility to work from home, allowing you to balance family responsibilities while earning a significant income. With startup costs often below $1,000, you could easily procure the necessary supplies and leverage online platforms to market your products to a wide audience.

Why start a soap business?

  • Low startup costs make it accessible to anyone with a modest initial investment.
  • Flexible work hours allow you to manage home and business simultaneously.
  • The growing demand for handmade and organic soaps offers a lucrative market opportunity.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $380,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

Leaving The Cubicle To Start A $23K/Month Soap Company

Outlaw Soaps, a soap company that started with just $13.72 of supplies, now makes an average of $23,000/month, with 46% of website orders from repeat customers who are loyal to the company's unique products and top-notch customer service.

Read by 25,164 founders

9. Start an online t-shirt business ($86.2K/month)

Starting an online t-shirt business could be an excellent opportunity for housewives looking to supplement their income, make extra money, or even start a full-fledged side business. This venture is flexible and manageable from the comfort of your home, making it easier to balance household responsibilities alongside managing your business. With the rise in demand for customized t-shirts, you have the potential to explore niches like quotes, tie-dye prints, and solid color designs (learn more).

Why consider starting an online t-shirt business?

  • Flexible and manageable from home. You can operate your business while handling household responsibilities.
  • Endless opportunities for creativity. You can tap into trends and create unique designs that resonate with customers.
  • Low startup costs and low-risk investment. You can start small and scale up based on demand and profitability (learn more).

How much you can make: $1,000 — $275,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 7 days (?)

How Two Teachers Started A T-Shirt Business Doing $1.2M/Year

Texas-born apparel brand Tumbleweed TexStyles has grown to serve over 150 retailers throughout the southern United States, selling an estimated 90,000+ products yearly and making an annual $1.2m in sales, thanks to the founders' unique designs, focus on giving back to the education community and successful “guerilla marketing” tactics.

Read by 20,245 founders

10. Start a dropshipping business ($414K/month)

Starting a dropshipping business could be an excellent opportunity for housewives looking to supplement their income or even launch a full-fledged business from home. Since dropshipping doesn’t require you to hold any inventory, it minimizes risk and reduces upfront costs significantly. By setting up an online store and partnering with reliable suppliers, you could focus on areas such as marketing and customer service—perfect for those who have spare time throughout the day.

Why consider starting a dropshipping business?

  • Low startup costs make it accessible without significant financial investment.
  • It provides the flexibility to manage your business from home, fitting around household responsibilities.
  • No need to handle inventory or shipping logistics, freeing you up to focus on growing your business.

For more information on how to start a dropshipping business, visit Starter Story’s page on dropshipping business tips.

How much you can make: $6,000 — $3,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $8,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 10 hours/week

How I Started A $100K/Month Business Mentoring Dropshipping Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneur Kamil Sattar has developed multiple six-figure drop shipping businesses, and his company, e-commerce mentoring, specializes in helping others create their own successful companies, with favorite platforms including using Shopify and apps such as Loox reviews and SMSBump.

Read by 25,676 founders

11. Start a men's underwear brand ($477K/month)

Starting a men's underwear brand could be an excellent opportunity if you are a housewife looking to supplement your income or embark on a business journey. The men's underwear industry is booming, with high demand for alternatives to traditional cotton briefs that offer luxury, comfort, and support. By creating a brand that caters to these preferences, you could capitalize on the growing market and potentially build a successful business from home.

Besides top brands like Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren, there's always room for innovative new players who can offer unique designs and materials. With strategic planning and quality manufacturing, a men's underwear brand can cater to a niche market, making this a viable small business idea. Discovering your brand's unique selling point could set you apart and ensure steady growth.

Why start a men's underwear brand?

  • The market is growing, offering many opportunities for newcomers to succeed.
  • By leveraging e-commerce, you could run the business from home, giving you flexibility.
  • High demand for quality, comfortable men's underwear means your products are always in need.

For more tips and success stories about starting your men's underwear brand, check out Starter Story’s resources here.

How much you can make: $800 — $2,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $4,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 470 days (?)

How We Built A Boxer Briefs Brand To $5K/Month With Zero Experience

Founder Krystian Frencel shares how he built a men's luxury underwear brand, Bunch of Animals, to $5,000/month with no previous e-commerce or product creation experience, offering softer than soft boxer briefs featuring seamless designs in collaboration with artists from around the world.

Read by 33,274 founders

12. Start a swimwear line ($19.2K/month)

Starting a swimwear line can be a lucrative side business or even a full-time venture for housewives, especially those living near a beach or a swimming pool. Given the consistent demand for swimwear due to regular water activities, you could tap into a thriving market by designing and selling stylish, comfortable swimsuits for both men and women. This venture allows you to express your creativity and passion for textiles while contributing to your household income.

Starting a swimwear line might seem daunting, but with careful planning and dedication, it’s a manageable and rewarding endeavor. Explore this guide on how to begin your swimwear business to get valuable insights and tips.

Why consider a swimwear line?

  • You could leverage your proximity to the beach to cater to a consistent local demand.
  • Running a swimwear line offers the flexibility to balance work and family life, as many tasks can be managed from home.
  • Designing and selling swimwear allows you to express your creativity, bringing unique styles and comfort to your customers.

By embarking on this exciting entrepreneurial journey, you get the chance to create a thriving business while fulfilling your life’s responsibilities.

How much you can make: $800 — $40,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $9,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How I Started A $300K Business Selling Swim Trunks Made From Trash

Junk in your Trunks is a sustainable swim trunk brand that uses recycled plastic bottles, reporting up to $25K in monthly revenue and gaining traction with a Barstool Sports partnership.

Read by 16,442 founders

13. Start a SEO agency ($113K/month)

Starting an SEO agency as a housewife offers a flexible and lucrative opportunity to supplement your income or even create a full-fledged business right from the comfort of your home. SEO is a rapidly growing industry with rising demand, offering the potential for substantial earnings. With today's technology and online tools, setting up an SEO agency has never been easier, and the less saturated market means there's a great chance for you to establish a strong foothold in this field.

Why start an SEO agency?

  • Flexible hours allow you to balance work with household responsibilities.
  • Minimal initial investment required compared to many other businesses.
  • High demand for SEO services means you could quickly build a clientele and start earning a considerable income.

To learn more about the startup costs, marketing ideas, and success stories for this business, check out our SEO Agency success stories.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,800,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How I Started An SEO Agency For Lawyers Generating $3.6M/Year

Rankings.io is a hyper-focused SEO agency that helps elite personal injury law firms dominate first page rankings and was ranked #858 in the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in America for 2018, with a current revenue just under $300,000 per month, with plans for a record-breaking year.

Read by 38,730 founders

14. Start a stationery business ($28.3K/month)

Starting a stationery business could be a fantastic way for housewives to supplement their income and indulge in their creative passions. Stationery products such as notebooks, greeting cards, and paper goods are always in demand, offering a vast array of opportunities for customization and expansion. The barrier to entry is relatively low, allowing you to start small on platforms like Etsy or eBay, and later grow into a full-fledged business.

By beginning with a limited product range, you could gradually build a customer base and explore different niches within the industry. For further insights on setting up your own stationery business, check out Starter Story's resources on how to start a stationery business.

Why starting a stationery business?

  • You could start with minimal investment, selling on platforms like Etsy or eBay.
  • There's plenty of room for creativity, allowing you to design unique products that stand out.
  • The demand for stationery is consistent, providing a stable market for potential growth.

How much you can make: $200 — $260,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 52 days (?)

How I Started A $12K/Month Business Selling Productivity Planners Online

Chasing Planner Peace is a planner company that has expanded from selling planner inserts on Etsy, to offering a one-stop shop customizable planner experience with over 300 inserts, a planner line, and various other related products, gaining a monthly revenue of around $25,000 at its busiest time of year.

Read by 64,214 founders

15. Start a pet store ($667K/month)

Starting a pet store could be a rewarding venture for housewives looking to supplement their income or launch an entirely new business. With the pet industry experiencing consistent growth, there is increasing demand for pet supplies and animals. By locating your store in areas with high foot traffic, such as residential communities, near schools, and colleges, you could attract a broad customer base. Additionally, situating your store near public transport could further boost accessibility and customer visits.

Why starting a pet store?

  • The growing pet industry offers a lucrative business opportunity.
  • A pet store can cater to a variety of customer needs, from pet food to grooming supplies.
  • Running a pet store provides the flexibility to manage your time while caring for your family and home.

For more insights on how to get started with a pet store, check out our guide to startup costs.

How much you can make: $400 — $1,833,333/month

How long does it take to build: 238 days (?)

How I Started A 6-Figures Business Selling A Dog Accessory

Mechanical engineer and avid bike rider Mike Leon turned his hobby of creating a safe bike-to-leash attachment for his service dog into a 6-figure business, shipping from hundreds to thousands of 1-Running-Dog Bike Tow Leashes per year to dog owners, military and law enforcement, and search and rescue teams.

Read by 14,332 founders

16. Start a cloud management software ($129K/month)

In a world rapidly moving towards digital transformation, cloud management software stands as a pillar of modern business operations. This business idea revolves around developing software that helps companies manage their cloud resources efficiently, overseeing everything from data storage to security compliance. If you're a housewife with a knack for software development or a strong interest in technology, starting a cloud management software business could be a rewarding avenue to explore. The potential market is immense, covering industries from healthcare to finance, ensuring high demand and growth opportunities.

Why consider starting a cloud management software business?

  • The digital transformation trend is only accelerating, offering significant opportunities for growth.
  • You could develop a flexible working schedule, allowing you to balance home responsibilities.
  • There is a high demand for efficient, user-friendly cloud management tools, making this a profitable venture.

For more inspiration, you could explore some success stories in cloud management software.

How much you can make: $25,000 — $330,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How We Partnered With Salesforce To Develop A $330K/Month Laboratory Information Management SaaS

Third Wave Analytics developed the world's first cloud-based and customizable LIMS platform on Salesforce, generating $330k monthly revenue from clients such as Ohio State University and Boston University School of Medicine while partnering with the University of California-Berkeley for a COVID-19 study; founder Savitra Sharma advises aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on clear objectives to meet their goals.

Read by 8,113 founders

17. Start a sustainable clothing line ($44K/month)

Starting a sustainable clothing line can be a fulfilling and lucrative venture for housewives looking to supplement their income or launch a side business. With increasing awareness and demand for eco-friendly fashion, now is an ideal time to enter this growing market. Modern technologies and resources make it easier than ever to start, ensuring a potentially successful and impactful business.

You could begin by designing eco-friendly apparel that resonates with conscious consumers. The global sustainable clothing market is projected to grow to $8.25 billion by 2023, increasing the potential for success. Discover real-life success stories and valuable tips on how to start your own sustainable clothing line here.

Why consider starting a sustainable clothing line?

  • You will be contributing to environmental conservation by promoting eco-friendly fashion.
  • You'll tap into the growing market of consumers who value sustainability and are willing to pay a premium for eco-conscious products.
  • Running a sustainable clothing business from home offers flexibility, allowing you to balance family responsibilities while building a brand.

How much you can make: $8,000 — $100,000/month

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

On Growing A Blog About Sustainable Fashion To 60K Monthly Visitors And $6K/Month In Revenue

This case study follows the founder of Sustainably Chic, a sustainable fashion blog with 60k monthly visitors and $6k monthly revenue, providing insights on building a successful blog, effective branding, and the importance of value and sustainability.

Read by 10,566 founders

18. Start an interior design consulting business ($33.6K/month)

If you have a passion for interior design and an eye for creating beautiful and functional spaces, starting an interior design consulting business could be an ideal way to supplement your income. As a housewife, you'll have the flexibility to set your own schedule, allowing you to balance work with family responsibilities. By leveraging your creativity and design skills, you could help clients transform their homes or commercial spaces while building a successful side business, or even a full-time venture.

Why start an interior design consulting business?

  • You could turn your passion for design into a profitable business while managing your personal commitments.
  • You have the flexibility to take on projects that fit your schedule, giving you control over your work-life balance.
  • You'll get the satisfaction of seeing your design ideas come to life and positively impact your clients' living or workspaces.

For more insights and tips on getting started, check out this resource on interior design consulting businesses.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $110,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $6,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How We (Mother And Daughter) Started A $1M/Year Boutique Design Firm

Mother and daughter duo turn passion for antiques and design into a boutique design firm with over $1 million in annual revenue and hundreds of trophy projects, showcasing the importance of grit, determination, and passion in building a successful business.

Read by 8,876 founders

19. Start an environmental blogging business

If you have a passion for the green environment, starting an environmental blog can be an ideal business venture for a housewife. It allows you to share your knowledge and educate others about the importance of taking care of the planet while you work from the comfort of your own home. Additionally, you could monetize your blog through affiliate links, promoting eco-friendly products and services, and earning commissions on sales.

Why consider starting an environmental blog?

  • You could generate income by promoting greener solutions and earning commissions through affiliate marketing.
  • It allows for flexibility, making it easy to balance work with household responsibilities.
  • Sharing your passion and expertise in environmental conservation could create a positive impact while building a sustainable business.

For more insights, check out some real-life success stories and marketing ideas on environmental blogging here.

How much you can make: $200/month

How much does it cost to start: $700 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

How We Started An Eco-Friendly Blog & Monetized Within 1 Year

Blue Oceans Green Earth, an eco-friendly affiliate marketing site promoting alternatives to plastic, shares the challenges they faced in building brand awareness and how rebranding and a team of VAs saved the business, with plans to balance revenue channels soon.

Read by 2,243 founders

20. Start a business startup instruction business ($173K/month)

Starting a business startup instruction business can be an excellent way for housewives to tap into their entrepreneurial mindset. This venture focuses on guiding aspiring business owners through the intricate process of launching their startups. By offering resources such as educational content, workshops, and one-on-one consultations, you could help others bring their business ideas to life while supplementing your income.

This type of business doesn't require a significant initial investment but does demand a solid understanding of the startup ecosystem. As a housewife, your organizational and multitasking skills will be crucial in helping others navigate the complexities of starting a business. To learn more about how others have succeeded in this field, check out some inspiring success stories here.

Why consider starting a business startup instruction business?

  • You could turn your entrepreneurial skills into a profitable venture by helping others achieve their startup dreams.
  • This business can be managed from home, offering flexible hours that fit into your household responsibilities.
  • Your insights and expertise could make a real impact, empowering aspiring entrepreneurs with the knowledge they need to succeed.

How much you can make: $2,246 — $1,399,996/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 110 days (?)

How I Created A $5K/Month Online Course About Blogging

How a full-time blogger created a 5-figure online business from a hobby, and now helps people start a side hustle and earn passive income with a signature program that teaches how to start and grow a blog, reach 100K page views and $5,000/month, and live life on their own terms.

Read by 15,267 founders

21. Start a travel agency ($178K/month)

If you're a passionate traveler with entrepreneurial skills, starting a travel agency could be an ideal business venture for you. As a housewife, you have the flexibility to operate this business from home, linking travelers to providers of essential services like accommodation, transportation, and sightseeing. With the rise of online travel agencies, the barriers to entry are lower than ever, allowing you to perform market research, get necessary certifications, build a website, and market your services effectively.

To maximize your earnings, consider negotiating discounts from industry service providers and charging travelers competitive market rates. This business could not only supplement your income but also allow you to share your passion for travel with others. For more on how to start a travel agency, visit Starter Story.

Why starting a travel agency?

  • You can leverage your passion for travel and turn it into a profitable business.
  • Operating online means you can work flexibly from home on your own schedule.
  • Lower startup costs and the ability to negotiate discounts can lead to higher profit margins.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Started A $2K/Month Side Hustle Selling Vacations

Marissa Daniels runs a successful travel agency, Spread Your Wings Travel, that hit $100,000 in sales within a year of launch and provides payment plan options for its all-inclusive vacations, and she hopes to help 100 families supplement their income through the business.

Read by 18,063 founders

22. Start a freelance writing business ($65.5K/month)

Starting a freelance writing business could be a great venture if you are a housewife looking to supplement your income or start a side business. This online job offers immense flexibility, allowing you to define your own work schedule and work from home. Freelance writing lets you explore various niches and topics, making it an engaging and varied career choice. To dive deeper, you can find more details in these freelance writing success stories.

Why consider freelance writing?

  • You could set your own hours and work around your household responsibilities.
  • There are endless topics to write about, keeping work interesting and engaging.
  • With minimal start-up costs, you can get started quickly and begin earning extra income.

How much you can make: $700 — $500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 56 days (?)

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 24,778 founders

23. Start an online gift shop business ($122K/month)

Starting an online gift shop business could be an ideal opportunity for Housewifes. From the comfort of your home, you could curate and sell a variety of unique gifts, ranging from artisanal candles to personalized keepsakes. This flexible business model allows you to balance household responsibilities while generating a steady income through a reliable ecommerce platform.

The charm of this venture lies in its simplicity and reach; you could source products from local artisans or global suppliers to create a diverse inventory. Marketing your online gift shop through social media, email campaigns, and influencer partnerships could help drive traffic to your store, enabling you to turn a knack for selecting thoughtful gifts into a profitable business. Check out this success story for inspiration.

Why start an online gift shop business?

  • Low overhead costs and the convenience of working from home make it hassle-free.
  • You could have the freedom to curate a unique selection of products tailored to various occasions and customer needs.
  • Potential for high-profit margins, given the increasing trend of online shopping and personalized gifts.

How much you can make: $550 — $800,000/month

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

How I Started A $500K/Month Stuffed Animal Care Packages Ecommerce Brand

Meet Tyler Macke, the 21-year-old founder of SendAFriend, an e-commerce brand that sells stuffed animal care packages, which began with $50k in revenue in 2019 and is now on track to make $5M in revenue this year, while donating 10% of revenue to children's hospitals throughout the United States.

Read by 18,027 founders

24. Start a lead generation business ($194K/month)

As a housewife, starting a lead generation business could be an excellent way to supplement your income or even start a side business. Lead generation involves aggregating consumer and business information which you can then sell to businesses looking for new prospects. If you understand digital marketing and know how to attract customers, you have the foundation needed to start a lead generation business, all from the comfort of your home.

Check out some of the success stories in this field on Starter Story to see how others have thrived in this sector.

Why start a lead generation business?

  • It's flexible and can be managed alongside household duties, making it a good fit for housewives.
  • It leverages your digital marketing skills to create a potentially lucrative income stream.
  • You can work with various clients, giving you the opportunity to learn about different industries and businesses.

How much you can make: $120 — $1,600,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $4,125 (?)

How long does it take to build: 150 days (?)

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 24,778 founders

25. Start a career coaching business ($48.5K/month)

Starting a career coaching business could be an excellent way for housewives to supplement their income while empowering others to achieve their professional goals. By leveraging your unique experiences and human resources expertise, you could offer personalized guidance to help clients with resume building, interview preparation, and career transitions. The flexibility of conducting sessions both in-person and virtually allows you to create a schedule that fits around your family's needs while making a tangible difference in the lives of your clients. For more insights, you can explore these career coaching business success stories.

Why consider starting a career coaching business?

  • You could set your own flexible schedule, making it easier to balance family responsibilities.
  • It's a great way to monetize your communication skills and previous professional experience.
  • You could derive satisfaction from helping others achieve significant career breakthroughs, turning your motivation into a viable business.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $235,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

From Getting Fired At 24 To Growing A $140K/Month Online Community

Wall Street Oasis, the largest online community focused on careers in finance, has over 100 million visitors during its 14-year history and is currently receiving over 2 million visits per month, offering interview courses and mentorship services, in addition to building and investing in a thriving online community.

Read by 22,383 founders

26. Start an online community ($22.7K/month)

Starting an online community as a housewife could be an exciting and lucrative opportunity to supplement your income or even build a full-scale business. Online communities bring people who share common values together, allowing you to leverage this collective interest to generate revenue through several different channels. From selling your products and promoting affiliate links to running ads and charging for community membership, the potential for earning is extensive. You could turn your passion for helping others or a particular niche into a thriving business by creating an environment where people feel connected and supported.

By creating an online community, you position yourself to become a key figure in a space that matters to you, all while earning money in various creative ways. For instance, you could use your community to sell your own products, promote affiliate links for a commission, or charge for sponsored content. This business idea not only allows you to work from home but also gives you the flexibility to manage your time according to your family’s needs.

Why starting an online community?

  • Flexibility to work from home allows you to manage your time around your family’s needs.
  • You can monetize your passion by selling products, promoting affiliate links, or running ads.
  • Building a supportive community offers emotional fulfillment along with financial benefits.

For more ideas and strategies on how to successfully start an online community, please check out the Starter Story.

How much you can make: $100 — $162,620/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 4 hours/week

This VC Taught Himself How To Code And Is Bootstrapping His Own Startup

VC-turned-entrepreneur Phil Strazzulla, who previously built a successful b2b SaaS business, shares how he bootstrapped an online review site for HR software into a viable business with over $1k monthly revenues in just 3 months through organic search traffic growth and selling high intent leads.

Read by 17,625 founders

27. Start a dating coaching business ($13.2K/month)

A dating coaching business can be an excellent way for housewives to supplement their income and make a meaningful impact on others' lives. You could offer training and guidance to improve clients' success in dating and relationships, helping them navigate the often confusing stages of early romantic experiences. By identifying a specific niche, whether it's teenagers, divorced individuals, or older adults, you could create a targeted service that meets unique needs, all from the comfort of your home. For more on how to get started, check out this Starter Story on how to start a dating coach service.

Why start a dating coaching business?

  • Flexible hours allow you to balance work and home life.
  • Opportunity to help others create fulfilling relationships.
  • Low startup costs, as much of the work can be done online.

How much you can make: $1,300 — $30,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 47 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 3 hours/week

How I Started A Business Where I Plan Romantic Date Nights For Couples

Meet Ta'Veca Collins, founder of Romance On The Go, a concierge service that promotes romance and intimacy; since becoming a preferred vendor for The W Hotel Fort Lauderdale, their gross income has increased to around $3,200.00 monthly, and they are currently expanding their team to meet the demands of new partnered hotels.

Read by 25,483 founders

28. Start a social media analytics business ($177K/month)

Are you looking for a business idea that fits seamlessly into your daily routine as a housewife? Starting a social media analytics business could be a smart and lucrative venture. By leveraging analytical tools to help companies improve their online presence, you can offer valuable insights into engagement rates, audience demographics, and performance trends. This business not only allows you to work from home but also provides the flexibility to balance family commitments while generating additional income.

Unlock the power of social media data with a social media analytics business. This venture involves helping companies understand and leverage their social media metrics to improve their online presence and marketing strategies.

Why start a social media analytics business?

  • Low overhead costs and flexible hours allow you to balance work with family responsibilities.
  • Growing demand for actionable social media insights presents numerous opportunities for business growth.
  • Can be managed entirely online, offering the freedom to work from home while supporting multiple clients.

For more insights and inspiration, check out these success stories from others who have started successful social media analytics businesses.

How much you can make: $12,000 — $749,998/month

How long does it take to build: 135 days (?)

Bootstrapping A $100K/Month Social Media Planner And Analytics Tool

Metricool, a SaaS social media management tool, built a business with a Freemium model, starting with just $50k in investment and now boasts over 5,000 clients, more than 400,000 users, and over $1 million of annual recurring revenue.

Read by 8,842 founders

29. Start a jewelry making business ($248K/month)

Starting a jewelry making business could be an excellent way for housewives to supplement their income or launch an entirely new venture. With the global jewelry market valued at $278 billion in 2018 and expected to reach $292 billion by 2025, there is a substantial opportunity to tap into this growing industry. If you have a knack for making jewelry, this creative and potentially lucrative endeavor could be a perfect fit.

Explore more insights on starting a jewelry making business here.

Why consider a jewelry making business?

  • Jewelry making can be done from home, allowing you flexibility with your schedule and responsibilities.
  • It's a profitable and scalable business with a global market that continues to grow.
  • You can turn your passion for crafting into a sustainable source of income by leveraging online marketplaces and social media for sales and marketing.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $2,000,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 120 days (?)

How A Teacher Started A Successful Handmade Jewelry Business Online

A primary school teacher found his passion for jewelry-making, turning it into a successful business generating $2500-3000 per month through sales at the Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market, online, and through stockists, with plans to expand and eventually make it his full-time profession.

Read by 44,006 founders

30. Start a preppy clothing business

Are you passionate about fashion with a classic twist? Starting a preppy clothing business could be an excellent opportunity for you to supplement your household income while tapping into the timeless allure of preppy style. Preppy fashion, characterized by its classic items like polo shirts, cable-knit sweaters, and chinos, maintains its appeal across generations, offering you a stable market. This business not only allows you to express your fashion sensibilities but also gives you the flexibility to balance your entrepreneurial pursuits alongside your household duties.

Establishing this type of business would involve designing collections, sourcing quality materials, and building relationships with reliable manufacturers. To effectively reach your market, maintaining a polished online store and utilizing digital marketing strategies will be crucial. For inspiration on starting your preppy clothing business, you could explore successful preppy clothing business success stories on Starter Story.

Why start a preppy clothing business?

  • Preppy fashion's enduring appeal ensures a consistent market, making it a stable business venture.
  • Balancing home responsibilities and a side business is achievable, thanks to the flexibility of online retail.
  • Patriotic and timeless styles provide an evergreen product line, mitigating the effects of fashion fads.

How much you can make: $21,000/month

I Started A Preppy Clothing Brand That Makes $21K/Month

Lazyjack Press, a luxury men's accessories brand, offers high-quality, Italian silk ties, pocket squares, bow ties, and socks with uniquely named designs and a focus on fun, appealing to audiences of all ages, and is primarily sold through trade shows and pop-up shops.

Read by 20,350 founders

31. Start a network marketing software ($570K/month)

Dive into the rapidly growing world of multi-level marketing by starting a business in network marketing software. As a housewife, you could leverage your organizational skills and familiarity with direct selling to create robust software solutions that streamline the tracking of sales and commissions, manage distributor networks, and enhance operational efficiency. This could enable MLM businesses to focus on their strategic growth while you provide the indispensable tools they need to thrive.

Network marketing software not only enhances the productivity of MLM businesses but also offers you a highly scalable business model. The increasing popularity of direct sales businesses opens up substantial market opportunities. If you have a knack for understanding business needs and crafting user-friendly solutions, this venture could become a lucrative income stream for you. Learn more about the potential of network marketing software here.

Why start a network marketing software business?

  • You could create a stable and scalable business model with high demand.
  • Your software could simplify complex MLM operations, making you an essential service provider.
  • The direct sales industry is booming, offering ample opportunities for growth and expansion.

How much you can make: $50,000 — $2,083,333/month

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

How We Started A $65K/Month Network Marketing Software

Software development company IOSS achieved a monthly income of around $60,000 and monthly revenue of $100,000 by offering their flagship product, Infinite MLM Software, which successfully manages the huge product sale with all types of commissions, MLM plans, and MLM business reports.

Read by 9,101 founders

32. Become a hair salon promoter

Starting a hair salon promoter business as a housewife could be an exciting venture to supplement your income, make extra money, or even grow into a full-time business. By leveraging your creativity and strong networking skills, you could help local salons develop unique marketing campaigns, organize community events, and elevate their social media presence to attract more clients. This entrepreneurial role allows you to merge your passion for beauty with strategic marketing, all while working flexible hours that suit your lifestyle.

Check out these marketing ideas for hair salon promoters from Starter Story.

Why consider becoming a hair salon promoter?

  • Flexible work hours that fit a housewife’s schedule allow you to balance home responsibilities with your entrepreneurial pursuits.
  • Opportunity to build strong connections within your local community, enhancing both your personal and professional network.
  • Chance to use your creativity and marketing skills to help local businesses thrive, making a meaningful impact on their success and your local economy.

How much you can make: $200,000/month

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

We Turned Our Passion For Sustainability Into a $2.4M/Year Hair & Body Care Brand

Plaine Products CEO, Lindsey McCoy, rids the world of single-use plastic bottles and turns her passion for sustainability into a $2.4M/year hair and body care brand, diverting over 300,000 plastic bottles from landfills and oceans.

Read by 4,351 founders

33. Start a dirt bike business

Starting a dirt bike business as a housewife could be a lucrative and exciting way to supplement your income or create an entirely new business venture. Whether you're passionate about dirt bike racing or just see the rising popularity of this sport, you could tap into various opportunities such as buying and selling used dirt bikes or even starting a leasing business. With urban dirt bike races gaining traction, there's a growing market for rugged, lightweight bikes designed for rough terrains.

Why start a dirt bike business?

  • You could fill a growing demand. Urban dirt bike races are becoming more popular, increasing the need for specialized bikes.
  • Buy and sell used dirt bikes for profit. There's a profitable market for refurbished or well-maintained used bikes.
  • It's a fun and rewarding business. Combining a passion for dirt bikes with business can make work feel like play.

How much you can make: $300,000/month

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 8,533 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.