The 39 Best Home-Based Businesses To Start In New Jersey [2024]
Interested in starting a business in New Jersey in 2024?
We put together 75 of the best businesses you can start in New Jersey today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in New Jersey.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a money lending company ($12M/year)
If you're considering starting a business in New Jersey, starting a money lending company could be a lucrative opportunity. This industry allows you to provide essential financial services, especially to real estate investors seeking flexible and fast funding options. Stratton Equities is a prime example of a successful money lending business that was started in Pine Brook, NJ by Michael Mikhail. Founded with just $1,000, Stratton Equities has grown to be a leading hard money and non-QM lender, grossing over $3M and offering some of the lowest rates in the industry.
Michael identified a market need for diverse and unique loan programs, which has positioned the company as a one-stop-shop for real estate financing. This demonstrates how you could capitalize on specialized financial services to meet niche demands within the mortgage industry. For more details on how Stratton Equities achieved its success, you can read their full case study here.
How a mortgage broker used $1000 to grow a leading hard money and NON-QM lender, grossing over $3m and offering some of the lowest rates in the industry by specializing in private unique loan programs with the largest variety of mortgage loans and programs nationwide and closing loans within 7-10 days.
2. Start a mobile veterinary service ($6.96M/year)
Starting a mobile veterinary service in New Jersey could be a highly rewarding business opportunity. You'd be providing a much-needed service by bringing high-quality pet care right to people's homes, addressing the stress and inconvenience of clinic visits for both pets and their owners.
One notable example is HousePaws, a business started by Lisa Aumiller in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. By taking a community-based marketing approach, Lisa grew her mobile vet service from a solo operation to a thriving business with over 100 employees and revenue exceeding 7 million dollars annually. If you're interested in learning more about the journey of HousePaws, you can read the full case study here.
A mobile veterinarian built her business HousePaws on a community-based marketing approach, which helped her take the team from just herself to over 100 employees and more than 7 million dollars in revenue in less than 10 years.
3. Start a digital agency ($6M/year)
Starting a digital agency in New Jersey presents a lucrative opportunity, especially given the state's thriving business environment. A prime example is Todays Business, a full-service digital marketing agency co-founded by Billy Ash. This agency has made notable strides, landing on the Inc 5000 list in both 2018 and 2019 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States. Their extensive client base spans industries such as healthcare, real estate, and tech, showcasing the vast potential for digital marketing services in the region.
Todays Business offers a range of services including SEO, SEM, website development, social media marketing, and more, proving that you could diversify your offering to meet various market needs. This story underscores the viability of creating a successful digital agency in New Jersey, leveraging local talent and resources to build a robust business. For more insights into their journey, check out their detailed case study.
Today's Business is a full-service digital marketing agency that made the Inc 5000 list in both 2018 and 2019 as one of the fastest-growing companies in the United States, with a client base spanning across various industries, including healthcare, real estate, and tech.
4. Start a home building company ($6M/year)
If you're considering launching a business in New Jersey, starting a home building company could be a lucrative and fulfilling option. With the state's prosperous real estate market and growing demand for custom homes, you could establish a thriving business. For inspiration, look no further than MPC Builders, founded by Michael J Parnell in Manasquan, New Jersey. This general contracting firm specializes in custom home construction along the Jersey Shore and has achieved significant success thanks to its transparent, client-focused approach.
Michael grew his company to generate over $500K in monthly revenue by setting a standard of open communication and client education. Learning from his journey, you could blend similar strategies with your vision to build a strong reputation and achieve substantial growth in New Jersey's vibrant market. For a more in-depth look at Michael's journey and the strategies he used, check out the full case study here.
A General Contracting firm founder who grew his company to over $500K a month revenue found his unhealthy obsession on scaling his business by constantly landing new projects and hiring new team members a mistake, and reduced his staff down to four, and shifted to a new target audience while implementing SEO and advertising campaigns.
5. Start a marketing agency ($6M/year)
Starting a marketing agency is an excellent business idea to consider in New Jersey, especially if you have the skills and drive to help other businesses grow. Darren Magarro started DSM, a full-service marketing and PR firm, right from his front porch in Midland Park, NJ, with just a laptop and some IKEA furniture. This venture has grown significantly, boasting 18 employees and a 334% increase in size since 2014 by leveraging both organic and paid digital media, traditional media, and a full-service creative team.
DSM's journey exemplifies what is possible in New Jersey's thriving business environment. Entrepreneurs like Darren prove that with dedication and the right strategy, you too could start a successful marketing agency that meets a variety of business needs. For more details on DSM's inspiring story, you can check out their case study.
This case study follows the journey of Darren Magarro, who started DSM, a full-service marketing and PR firm from his porch with just a laptop and IKEA furniture, and has since grown it to 18 employees with 334% growth since 2014, utilizing organic and paid digital media, traditional media, and a full-service creative team.
6. Start a time tracking app ($2.22M/year)
Starting a time tracking app could be an excellent business idea for entrepreneurial-minded individuals in New Jersey. In fact, Labor Sync, a successful example of this type of business, was founded by Dean A. Logan in New Jersey. Labor Sync is a mobile application that enables business owners to track the time and GPS location of their mobile workforce, providing significant savings—$104,000 in one year across 45 employees—without any initial funds for advertising or marketing.
If you're considering this business idea, Labor Sync's story highlights the potential for success and scalability. They launched their product officially in 2011 and have since expanded globally, with availability in over 17 languages and usage in more than 100 countries. You can learn more about their journey and gain insights from their case study. This example underscores the possibilities and rewards of starting a time tracking app in New Jersey.
Labor Sync is a mobile application that provides business owners with the ability to track the time and GPS location of their mobile workforce and after just one year of use, they saved $104,000 across 45 employees despite starting off with no funds for advertising or marketing.
7. Start a watch brand ($1.8M/year)
If you have a passion for horology, starting a watch brand in New Jersey could be a great home-based business idea. This venture allows you to explore various aspects of design, sourcing, and the intricate world of timepieces, where your attention to detail and unique aesthetic can set your products apart.
Take, for example, Theo & Harris, founded by Christian Zeron in New Jersey. At just 23 years old, Christian turned his love for vintage watches into a booming business that generates over $2 million in sales annually. His success story illustrates the potential for leveraging social media and personal engagement to build a strong, loyal customer base. To read more about his journey and gain inspiration, check out his case study.
23-year-old Christian Zeron shares how he launched Theo & Harris, a vintage watch company that now generates over $2 million in sales a year through understanding his audience and using YouTube to develop personal relationships at scale.
8. Create an online course ($1.44M/year)
Creating an online course is a fantastic home-based business idea that leverages your knowledge and skills to generate passive income. In Chester, New Jersey, Rasmus & Christian Mikkelsen, also known as the Mikkelsen Twins, built a successful online education company with their program, Audiobook Income Academy 2.0. Their course teaches students how to build a profitable book publishing business with over 800 students and generating six-figure profits monthly.
This entrepreneurial journey emphasizes the vast potential for creating impactful and lucrative online courses right here in New Jersey. If you're considering diving into online education, the story of Publishing.com by the Mikkelsen Twins offers an inspiring real-world example of what you could achieve. By leveraging your unique know-how and combining it with effective online instructional methods, you could launch a similarly successful online course.
Mikkelsen Twins grew an online education company from scratch with over 800 students, making over 6-figures in profit every month thanks to their successful program, Audiobook Income Academy 2.0.
9. Start an appliance repair business ($1.2M/year)
Starting an appliance repair business could be an excellent home-based venture in New Jersey, given the high demand for appliance maintenance and repair services. With minimal initial investment in tools and training, this type of business can be quite lucrative as households always need functioning appliances, and timely repairs are essential.
A notable example of success in this field from Fort Lee, New Jersey, is Think Crucial, founded by Chad Rubin. Think Crucial began with a focus on selling replacement accessories for household items like vacuums and appliances, and it has grown significantly by leveraging software to streamline operations. You could draw inspiration from Rubin's journey, which highlights the importance of starting small, solving a real problem, and gradually scaling your business. For more details on this fascinating case study, you can check out Think Crucial's story here.
Chad Rubin, founder of Think Crucial and CEO of Skubana, shares his experience in building and scaling his e-commerce business from scratch using scrappy tactics and integrated e-commerce management software.
10. Start an axe throwing business ($960K/year)
If you're looking for a unique business idea that could thrive in New Jersey, you might consider starting an axe throwing business. Axe throwing has become a popular recreational activity, merging sport and social entertainment. You could follow in the footsteps of Stumpy’s Hatchet House, an indoor hatchet-throwing venue started by Stuart and Kelly Josberger along with Trish and Mark Oliphant.
Stumpy’s Hatchet House, which first opened in Eatontown, New Jersey, in 2016, has grown from a single location to 15 in less than three years, with aspirations to operate 40 locations by the end of 2020. This success story demonstrates how combining innovative solutions, strategic franchising, and effective PR can lead to significant expansion and industry leadership. If you’re intrigued by this business model, you can learn more about their journey in this detailed case study.
Stumpy's Hatchet House is an indoor hatchet-throwing venue that has grown from one to 15 locations in less than three years since opening, and expects to operating 40 locations by the end of 2020, incorporating innovative solutions, strategic franchising, and effective PR exposure to be an industry leader in indoor hatchet-throwing recreation.
11. Start a skin care product line ($396K/year)
If you're considering starting a business in New Jersey, you could start a skin care product line, leveraging the state's robust e-commerce infrastructure. Carole Rains, from New Jersey, successfully started Emu Joy, a venture that has sold over 50,000 bottles, jars, and tubes of all-natural emu oil products online. Her journey from bootstrapping to building a recognized brand provides valuable insights into thriving in the beauty and wellness industry.
Emu Joy's products address various skin, hair, muscle, and joint conditions using emu oil's unique moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties. Carole's determination to spread the benefits of emu oil and help people with conditions like eczema has made Emu Joy a success. Her story is an excellent example for aspiring entrepreneurs in New Jersey who are looking to create impactful and profitable home-based businesses. Read the full case study here.
Emu Joy is a profitable business that has sold over 50,000 bottles, jars, and tubes of all-natural emu oil products online, with more than 90% of sales on Amazon, and founder Carole Rains shares tips on success from bootstrapping and branding, to using multiple checking accounts, and fostering relationships.
12. Start a cooler business ($300K/year)
If you're looking to start a cooler business in New Jersey, there's a promising market for paintable coolers, especially among college students involved in Greek life and DIY crafting. Garrett Barretta, inspired by his time at the University of Delaware and his family's entrepreneurial background, started COOLERSbyU in Fort Lee, NJ. The business quickly gained traction by focusing on high-quality, customizable coolers and accessories tailored for fraternity and sorority events.
COOLERSbyU grew from modest beginnings to generating over $25k per month within four years, primarily through organic growth and a strong focus on SEO. This presents an exciting opportunity to tap into a niche market that values customization and creativity. To learn more about how Garrett built his business, you can check out the full case study here.
How a recent college graduate started COOLERSbyU, a paintable cooler and accessories business geared towards Greek life and DIY crafting, growing from a few thousand dollars to an average of over $25k per month in just four years through mostly organic growth and a focus on SEO.
14. Start an online t-shirt business ($60K/year)
If you're considering starting an online t-shirt business in New Jersey, you're in good company. Chris Durso's The Foodnited States is a fantastic example of how a unique and engaging concept can capture the market. By combining witty food puns with state-themed designs, Chris's business has drawn attention and increased sales through clever marketing and customer engagement. His use of organic social media growth and collaborations has proven especially effective, managing to generate an impressive $3-5k monthly with just a limited product line.
The success of The Foodnited States, which started in New Jersey, demonstrates the potential for creative and niche product ideas. This venture began with simple yet captivating designs that resonated with a broad audience, leading to features on notable platforms like The Today Show and Food and Wine. If you're inspired by Chris's entrepreneurial journey and want to dive deeper into his strategies, you can check out the full case study here. With dedication and a unique approach, you could also turn your home-based t-shirt venture into a successful enterprise in New Jersey.
The Foodnited States, an online shop selling illustrated state-themed merchandise, started generating an extra $3-5k monthly with only 11 states available, having relied heavily on organic social media and an email list to attract customers, with user-generated content and collaborations with photographers and brands being its most effective marketing tools.
15. Create a web development course ($28.2K/year)
If you're looking to leverage New Jersey's strong entrepreneurial spirit, you could consider creating a web development course. This business idea caters to both tech enthusiasts and individuals wanting to enhance their digital skills, making it an ideal venture in today's technology-driven world. With the growing demand for web developers, offering training systems and resources specifically targeted at beginners can attract a steady stream of clients.
A great example of this is the Website Profit Course, started by Ray DelVecchio in Bellmawr, NJ. Launched in 2015, Ray's platform provides step-by-step training to help people start their web design businesses, particularly serving local small businesses. He maintains a consistent online presence through YouTube, blogs, and emails, generating an average revenue of $2,350/month. For more details on his journey and strategy, check out the case study.
Learn how one founder built and grew a web design business learning platform, with an average online revenue of $2,350/month, by providing step-by-step training systems and resources for beginners and using consistent publishing on YouTube, blog and email lists to retain customers.
16. Start a skin care product line ($24K/year)
Starting a skin care product line could be an excellent home-based business opportunity if you reside in New Jersey. With a rising interest in all-natural, organic products, there’s a significant market for skin care products free from chemicals and preservatives. An inspiring example from Glen Ridge, New Jersey, USA, is Oh My Balm, a business founded by two moms, Meredith Moseley-Bennett and Yolanda Grbic. They started their side hustle in 2017, creating kitchen-crafted, all-natural body products and have seen their sales double since launching.
Meredith and Yolanda's journey with Oh My Balm shows the potential for success and community engagement. They have participated in over 75 craft shows and align their product sourcing with non-profit organizations, resonating with ethically-conscious consumers. If you’re interested in this business idea, Oh My Balm illustrates how you could launch and grow a similar venture in New Jersey. For more about their story, visit the Oh My Balm case study.
Two moms start a side hustle selling all-natural body products, doubling sales since their launch in 2017 with over 75 craft shows, promoting a non-profit source for their shea butter and self-promotion through podcasts, lining up retail interest from exposure.
17. Start a video player software business
Starting a video player software business could be a lucrative opportunity, especially in New Jersey where there is a vibrant tech scene. Ziotag, founded by Todd Giannattasio in New Jersey, is an excellent example of success in this area. Ziotag offers an AI-powered video player that autotranscribes and segments online videos, creating easily navigable content with a detailed Table of Contents.
As a New Jersey resident, you could explore similar innovative solutions and capitalize on the booming tech market. With Ziotag having raised $500K in an angel round and garnering 500 customers on its waitlist, it's clear there are substantial opportunities in this sector. For more detailed insights, you can check out the full case study of Ziotag.
Ziotag.com's AI-powered video player autotranscribes, segments, deep tags, and creates an Actionable Table of Contents for any online video, with around 500 customers on the waitlist, a $500K angel round raised, and a Beta Customer Acquisition Cost of $3.88.
18. Start a cannabis business ($3.26M/year)
With New Jersey's recent legalization of recreational marijuana, starting a cannabis business offers a unique and timely opportunity. As one of the newest states to adopt legalization, the market is ripe for innovation and growth, making it less saturated compared to older markets, thus increasing your chances for success.
You could tap into various segments, from cultivation and retail to ancillary services like delivery or edibles. There's a wealth of successful case studies to learn from, demonstrating the diverse opportunities and potential for high returns. For entrepreneurial-minded folks in New Jersey, this burgeoning industry could be your next lucrative venture.
Plain Jane, an online CBD company founded by two college roommates, offers unique products and has generated over $20K a month in sales within five months, attracting and retaining customers through social media, authentic stories, and content.
19. Start a cbd business ($1.02M/year)
With New Jersey's evolving legal landscape and a growing acceptance of CBD, launching a CBD business in the state could be a lucrative venture. The substantial growth in the CBD market, predicted to expand by a CAGR of 21.7%, makes this an opportune moment to tap into an increasingly aware consumer base looking for alternative health solutions.
Given the diverse range of CBD business ideas, like becoming a distributor or starting a subscription box service, New Jersey entrepreneurs have numerous pathways to success. To get started, check out more details on CBD business opportunities and explore successful case studies to gain insights and inspiration.
Plain Jane, an online CBD company founded by two college roommates, offers unique products and has generated over $20K a month in sales within five months, attracting and retaining customers through social media, authentic stories, and content.
20. Start a pet company ($4.12M/year)
If you have a passion for pets, starting a pet company in New Jersey could be an ideal business opportunity. The state boasts a high population density, meaning a larger market for pet-related products and services. Additionally, with numerous pet-friendly parks and communities, there's a high demand for grooming, pet sitting, and specialized pet products.
You could offer your services from the comfort of your home or a nearby location that suits your lifestyle and customer needs. This flexibility allows you to cater to busy pet owners who may lack time or transportation. For inspiration, check out these successful case studies to see how others have thrived in this industry.
Furry Fellas Pet Service LLC is a successful pet sitting and dog walking business that brings in over half a million dollars in sales per year, boasts 3,500-4,000 social media followers, employs 42 individuals and has been voted in the top 3 pet sitting/dog walking companies in the RI/MA area for eight years in a row.
21. Start an artificial intelligence business ($720K/year)
New Jersey's strong technology sector and proximity to major business hubs like New York City make it an ideal location to start an artificial intelligence business. You could tap into the high demand for AI solutions in industries such as healthcare, finance, and logistics, which are prevalent in the state.
The global AI market is estimated to grow by approximately 54% YoY, reaching over 22 billion U.S. Dollars soon. This substantial growth offers a lucrative business opportunity if you start now. For more information and successful case studies, check out our artificial intelligence business page and success stories.
AdviNOW Medical uses artificial intelligence to automate clerical work, resulting in doctors being able to focus solely on patients and patients seeing more doctors every day, leading to increased profitability while solving healthcare issues.
22. Build an ai tool ($3.57M/year)
Starting an AI tool business in New Jersey could be a fantastic opportunity given the state's vibrant technology ecosystem and access to top talent from leading institutions. New Jersey is home to several tech hubs and renowned universities like Princeton and Rutgers, offering ample collaboration and recruitment potential for your innovative AI solutions.
As the demand for AI tools continues to surge across various industries, you could tap into this lucrative market by developing tailor-made applications for sectors such as healthcare, finance, and retail. For more details on how to get started with an AI tool business, check out this comprehensive guide and explore successful case studies from other entrepreneurs who have turned AI into thriving enterprises.
SkillSoniq, the world's first AI-powered recruiting app, connects companies with skilled freelancers on a trial basis, saving companies 60%+ in hiring costs and earning $350,000+ in gross revenues in its first year, with a current average of $40,000 a month, and plans to raise a second round of seed funding to achieve escape velocity and continue to form a world-class company.
23. Start a content creation business ($963K/year)
Starting a content creation business in New Jersey could offer you a plethora of opportunities due to the state's dynamic economy and diverse industries. New Jersey is home to a mix of corporate headquarters, small businesses, and tech startups that are continually looking for compelling content to engage their audiences and boost their digital presence.
By providing niche-specific expertise, you could tailor your services to meet the unique needs of local companies, helping them increase lead generation and visibility. Whether you choose to operate as a freelancer or develop a full-service agency, there's a growing demand for creative and well-crafted content in areas such as finance, healthcare, and education. For more details on how to get started, check out this guide on content creation businesses or read through some successful case studies for inspiration.
Power Move Marketing is an innovative digital marketing company founded by Hailey Brooke McFadden, which has achieved an impressive monthly income of $22,075 and is projected to make almost $300,000 in its first year, by offering a one-stop-shop for e-commerce businesses looking for a marketing powerhouse with a female positive culture.
24. Start a business coaching ($4.69M/year)
Starting a business coaching service in New Jersey could be an excellent choice given the state's vibrant entrepreneurial scene and diverse business community. As a business coach, you could harness your expertise to help local entrepreneurs and managers navigate challenges, develop strategies, and enhance their performance. With increasing demand for skilled business coaches, there are ample opportunities for you to make a significant impact.
Moreover, New Jersey's strategic location near major business hubs like New York City and Philadelphia means you could tap into a larger market and expand your network. Tailoring your services to meet specific client needs, whether it's leadership development or market strategies, could help you stand out. Interested in more details? Check out our business coaching idea page and read through inspiring success stories of entrepreneurs who have thrived in this field.
MentorCruise is a career coaching marketplace generating $24k MRR and processing $1M annually for mentors, with most traffic and sales coming from SEO and organic sources, currently looking to expand to the B2B market.
25. Start a camping brand ($20.1K/year)
Starting a camping brand in New Jersey is a promising venture due to the state's diverse landscapes and numerous outdoor recreational areas. With destinations like the Pine Barrens, Delaware Water Gap, and the Appalachian Trail, you could tap into a growing market of campers, hikers, and adventure enthusiasts who frequent these spots year-round. You could learn more about this idea here.
Additionally, focusing on innovative technologies and sustainable materials could appeal to eco-conscious consumers who value both performance and environmentally friendly products. By building a brand that emphasizes quality and sustainability, you could attract a loyal customer base eager to invest in premium gear. See some successful case studies for inspiration on how you could make your mark in the thriving outdoor recreation industry in New Jersey.
From almost zero knowledge about SEO and marketing, this founder grew Gear Up Hiking, a hiking and camping niche affiliate blog that currently averages $1300+ per month and has a traffic range of 20k to 30k visitors monthly, and is worth over $50,000 if sold for profit.
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Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
