The 23 Best Home-Based Businesses To Start In South Carolina [2024]
Interested in starting a business in South Carolina in 2024?
We put together 69 of the best businesses you can start in South Carolina today.
For each business idea, we’ll show you real-world examples of how you can start your profitable, home-based small business in South Carolina.
Here's the full list:
1. Start a diagnostic tools business ($50.4M/year)
Starting a diagnostic tools business could be a lucrative opportunity in South Carolina, especially given the growth of the automotive and trucking industries in the state. By focusing on providing essential diagnostic tools and comprehensive support, you could attract a steady client base of mechanics, repair shops, and fleet managers.
An inspiring example is Diesel Laptops, started by Tyler Robertson in Irmo, South Carolina. Diesel Laptops rapidly grew from operating in Tyler's garage to a 21,000 square foot facility by addressing customer pain points and offering bundled diagnostic hardware, software, and technical support. In just three years, they achieved $20 million in annual revenue. You can read more about their remarkable journey on Starter Story.
Diesel Laptops, a B2B company that sells diesel diagnostic hardware, software, and services, successfully doubled revenue each year to make $20 million annually within three years, grew from its founder's garage and dining room table to a 21,000 square foot facility with over 90 employees by listening to customer pain points and offering the bundled products, technical support and repair information to attract and retain diesel technicians and repair shop owners.
2. Start a publishing business ($18M/year)
If you're an entrepreneur in South Carolina, particularly in Charleston, you could consider starting a publishing business, a venture that has shown remarkable success in the state. A prime example is Forbes Books, founded by Adam Witty in Charleston. This business has become one of the largest business book publishers in America, specializing in Authority Marketing™ and providing a streamlined book creation process for entrepreneurs and business leaders.
With sales exceeding $1.5 million per month, Forbes Books has benefited from customer referrals, speaking engagements, and diverse advertising strategies. They have served over 1,500 authors worldwide and have been featured in prominent publications such as The Wall Street Journal and USA Today. If you're inspired by Adam Witty's journey and interested in creating a thriving publishing business in South Carolina, you can read more about his story in this case study.
Adam Witty started Advantage|ForbesBooks, one of America's largest business book publishers with sales over $1.5 million per month, which offers pain-free book creation and specializes in Authority Marketing™ for entrepreneurs and business leaders, achieving seven out of the past eight years in the Inc. 5000 list of America's most rapidly growing private companies, and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Investor’s Business Daily, USA Today, amongst others, growing his business through customer referrals, speaking, and advertising both online and offline.
3. Start a nanoscale water filters production business ($12M/year)
Starting a nanoscale water filters production business could be a noteworthy opportunity for residents of South Carolina, particularly given the growing need for advanced water purification solutions. You could explore leveraging this high-tech sector by developing and manufacturing innovative filtration systems that target contaminants at the molecular level. This type of business not only aids in providing cleaner water but also contributes positively to public health and the environment.
An inspiring example from Greenville, SC, is Sttark (formerly Frontier Label), founded by Dan Frist. Starting with a basic HP printer, Dan grew the company into a $12M annual business focused on custom label printing. This case underscores how starting a niche, technical business in South Carolina can scale significantly with the right approach to customer needs and market strategies. You can read more about their journey here.
Frontier Label started as a small digital label printing company with a basic HP printer and has grown to a $12M yearly e-commerce business that prints labels for companies of all sizes in various industries, with a focus on finding and meeting customer needs through SEO, content marketing, and exceptional customer service.
4. Start a marketing agency ($10.8M/year)
If you’re looking to start a home-based business in South Carolina, you could consider launching a marketing agency. Marketing agencies are a great avenue as they allow you to leverage your creativity and business acumen while working from home. Take for example Visiture, an award-winning eCommerce marketing agency based in Charleston, South Carolina. Founded by Brian Cohen, Visiture has demonstrated remarkable success, with over $1 million in monthly recurring revenue and representing high-profile clients like Spanx and BarkBox.
Visiture’s growth and accomplishments, such as landing at #753 on the 2019 Inc. 5000 list, highlight the potential for those willing to focus on a core service area and utilize content marketing to establish their expertise. This case study is an inspiring example of what you could achieve by starting a marketing agency in South Carolina. For more details on Visiture’s impressive journey, you can read their full story here.
eCommerce marketing agency Visiture has achieved impressive growth, with revenues up 84% YoY, exceeding $1m monthly recurring revenue, representing more than 140 merchants including Spanx and BarkBox, and landing at #753 on the 2019 Inc. 5000 list; CEO Brian Cohen advises startups to concentrate on one core service line, work with well-known brands and to use content marketing to establish expertise.
5. Start an audio sharing app ($1.2M/year)
If you're fascinated by the intersection of technology and audio content, you could start an audio sharing app. This innovative idea allows users to create, share, and promote audio snippets on social media, providing an excellent platform for podcasters, musicians, and other audio creators to reach their audience in engaging ways.
A great example of this business idea flourishing in South Carolina is Wavve, started by Baird Hall in Charleston. Wavve has grown impressively, reaching $75k in monthly recurring revenue, and boasts a client list including ESPN Radio and BBC. For an inspiring case study on how Wavve achieved success, check out their detailed story.
Wavve, a SaaS product helping podcasters and audio creators promote their content on social media, has grown to $75k in monthly recurring revenue with over 70,000 signups and clients including ESPN Radio, Dave Ramsey, and BBC.
6. Start a multi-tool brand ($504K/year)
You could start a multi-tool brand in South Carolina, offering versatile, compact tools that people can carry with them every day. A great example is Lever Gear, founded by Mike Scully in Greenville, South Carolina. Lever Gear designs everyday carry tools like their flagship product, the Toolcard Pro, which features 40 tools in a credit-card-sized format. Since their successful Kickstarter in 2016, they've sold over 25,000 Toolcard Pros in over 80 countries.
Lever Gear's success showcases the potential for innovative product design and effective online marketing. Being based in Greenville, South Carolina, this company is expanding through various online marketplaces and brick-and-mortar retailers. If you're interested in following a similar entrepreneurial path, you could find inspiration in their journey. Learn more about their story here.
Lever Gear, a company that designs everyday carry tools, has sold over 25,000 Toolcard Pros in over 80 countries since their successful Kickstarter campaign in Spring 2016, and are currently looking to expand through U.S. online marketplaces, Amazon Europe and brick and mortar retailers, as well as developing new products and curating EDC products that align with their mission.
7. Start a web design & online marketing business ($360K/year)
If you're considering starting a home-based business in South Carolina, you could explore the profitable and dynamic field of web design and online marketing. With a robust market for digital services, particularly catering to eCommerce platforms, there's significant potential for growth. One entrepreneur who successfully ventured into this space is Leighton Taylor, who founded Envision in Charleston, South Carolina.
Envision is an eCommerce marketing agency specializing in Shopify. Since its inception in 2012, the agency has scaled up to approximately $30k/month by working with about 350 eCommerce brands, helping them enhance their online presence and grow their sales. You could draw inspiration from Leighton's story, demonstrating how focusing on clear communication, punctuality, and content marketing can carve a niche for yourself in this competitive industry. For a detailed read on how Leighton built Envision, check out this case study.
Founder Leighton Taylor shares how his eCommerce marketing agency for Shopify has grown to approximately $30k/month, working with about 350 eCommerce brands and an ideal client with annual revenue from $1-10 million, while focusing on clear communication, punctuality and content marketing through a podcast.
8. ($300K/year)
If you’re in South Carolina and have a knack for digital marketing, starting a boutique SEO agency could be a lucrative home-based business. Jade Pruett launched HelloSEO in Columbia, SC, and has turned her expertise into a thriving business. By focusing on SEO and SEO-informed content marketing, Jade assists small to medium-sized service businesses in boosting their online presence.
HelloSEO generates about $25,000 a month and offers services like long-term SEO management and hourly consulting sessions through what Jade calls "Power Hours." This model can be replicated with the right set of skills and a passion for helping other businesses grow. For more inspiration, check out Jade’s full story here.
From $0 to $25,000 monthly, Jade Pruett's HelloSEO thrives with an 80% profit margin by offering SEO services and Power Hours that yield a 12,000% ROI, proving that responsiveness to client feedback and focusing on a single skill can accelerate growth.
9. Start a wordpress template business ($132K/year)
Starting a WordPress template business in South Carolina could be an excellent opportunity for those with a knack for web development and design. You could offer customizable website templates for small businesses and entrepreneurs looking to establish a professional online presence quickly and affordably. This model allows you to scale your operations beyond one-on-one client work by creating digital products that can be sold repeatedly.
An inspiring example of success in this field is Sam Munoz Consulting, LLC, started by Sam in Kalamazoo, MI, USA. Sam's company specializes in upscale websites for high-performing businesses and affordable website templates called "Effortless Website Kits" for new entrepreneurs. By 2020, the business was generating roughly $9,000 per month in revenue. For more detailed insights into Sam's journey and business strategies, you could check out the full case study.
Sam Munoz Consulting LLC generated roughly $9,000 per month in revenue in 2020, thanks to their affordable website templates “Effortless Website Kits” and private clients, with a goal to shift revenue to digital products in the next two years.
10. Start a stock trading consultant ($48K/year)
If you're entrepreneurial and based in South Carolina, consider starting a stock trading consultancy. The idea revolves around offering affordable and personalized education and training to traders of all levels. In Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, Paul J. Asmar did precisely this with his business, Camelbacktrading 2724 LLC, where he helps traders enhance their skills using voice channel trading rooms and webinars.
Paul has turned his passion for the stock market into a thriving business, growing his community from 0 to 130 traders in just three months. His unique approach, leveraging tools like the Market Profile and affordable pricing, sets his consultancy apart from the competition. For more on Paul's successful venture, you can read his full case study here.
Camelbacktrading founder Paul Asmar has found success in the volatile trading business by offering affordable and personalized education and training to traders of all ages, and has grown his voice channel trading room from 0 to 130 traders in just three months.
11. Start a retail business ($24K/year)
Starting a retail business in South Carolina offers a wealth of opportunities, especially in vibrant cities like Charleston. One successful example from Charleston is Charleston Weekender, founded by Liz Martin. Liz started as a lifestyle blogger and later co-founded a balloon & gift shop called Cannonborough Collective. By focusing on high-demand items like home decor and modern gifts, and leveraging social media sponsorships and workshops, she managed to double her revenue within a year.
Charleston Weekender's success story demonstrates how you could tap into the local market and tourism industry to build a prosperous retail business. With Charleston being a popular tourist destination, products tailored to visitors can significantly bolster sales. To learn more about Liz Martin's business journey and how she achieved her success, check out the full case study.
Liz Martin founded a lifestyle blog and balloon & gift shop in Charleston, SC, doubling her revenue from $35k to $70k in just one year through a combination of sponsorships, social media workshops and sales from her shop, leveraging the popularity of Instagram and narrowing her business focus.
12. Start a pet company ($4.12M/year)
If you love animals and want to make a living from your passion, starting a pet company in South Carolina might be the perfect fit for you. South Carolina has a thriving pet community, and there's no shortage of products or services you could offer, from pet food and toys to grooming and care services. By tapping into this market, you could provide high-quality, personalized offerings that make life better for pets and their owners alike.
Additionally, you could run your pet business from your home or a location that suits you best, granting the flexibility to manage your ventures efficiently. With the growing trend of pet ownership and the increasing demand for premium pet services, the opportunities are endless. For more details on starting a pet company, check out this resource and success stories from other entrepreneurs on our website.
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.
13. Start a cbd business ($1.02M/year)
Starting a CBD business in South Carolina could be a lucrative opportunity given the state's growing acceptance of alternative health and wellness products. With market researchers projecting a CAGR of 21.7% in the CBD market over the next few years, you could capitalize on this booming industry and meet the increasing demand for CBD products that claim to treat various conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, and migraines.
Moreover, South Carolina’s agricultural background offers an added advantage, as you could form CBD cooperatives or become a distributor. If you’re tech-savvy, you could also consider creating an online presence by becoming a CBD marketer, running a CBD podcast, or even starting a CBD subscription box service. For more ideas and inspiration, check out successful case studies related to the CBD business on our website.
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.
14. Start a cannabis business ($3.26M/year)
If you're considering starting a cannabis business in South Carolina, you're tapping into a booming industry with significant growth potential. The cannabis market has been expanding rapidly, with legal marijuana sales projected to reach $22 billion by 2022. This trend suggests ample opportunities for entrepreneurial individuals looking to break into a high-demand market.
In South Carolina, you could explore various aspects of the cannabis business, from cultivation to retail. Success in this industry isn't solely based on prior experience; countless entrepreneurs have made their mark by tapping into this growing sector. For more details on this business idea, feel free to check out Starter Story's guide and success stories from those who have thrived in this field.
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.
15. Start an online shopping business ($1.8M/year)
Starting an online shopping business in South Carolina is a promising venture given the state's growing online consumer base and relatively low business operating costs. You could leverage platforms like Shopify or WooCommerce to easily set up your digital storefront and begin selling a diverse array of products.
South Carolina's strategic location also provides advantageous shipping options, making it efficient to distribute products both locally and across the country. By carefully managing inventory and cultivating a user-friendly shopping experience, you could develop a scalable business with a global reach. With dedication, you could transform your dream of running a successful ecommerce enterprise into reality.
Combat Flip Flops is an e-commerce business that employs artisans and entrepreneurs in conflict zones and has funded 217 years of school for Afghan girls and cleared 2814 square meters of landmines in Laos through direct-to-consumer sales and social media distribution.
16. Start an etsy shop ($570K/year)
Starting an Etsy shop in South Carolina could be a brilliant business move. With a strong tradition of craftsmanship and a growing community that values unique, handmade items, you might find a receptive audience for your creative products. Additionally, South Carolina's relatively low cost of living can allow you to maximize your profit margins as you grow your online presence.
Moreover, the flexibility of running an Etsy shop from home fits well with the laid-back lifestyle that many South Carolinians cherish. You could easily balance your work-life commitments while still pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams. For more inspiration, check out these successful Etsy seller case studies on our site and see how others have turned their creative passions into thriving businesses.
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.
17. Start a supplements company ($4.94M/year)
Launching a supplements company could be a lucrative home-based business in South Carolina due to the state's growing focus on health and wellness. You could cater to a diverse customer base, including fitness enthusiasts, wellness influencers, and health-conscious individuals who prioritize their nutrition. South Carolina’s strong community networks make it easier to establish a loyal local customer base.
Given the rising popularity of online retail, you could efficiently manage and promote your supplements business from the comfort of your home. It's also an affordable startup option, and with strategic marketing, you could see significant growth. For more details on launching this kind of business, check out this supplements business guide and explore successful case studies for inspiration.
A military officer turned entrepreneur built sports nutrition brand Bare Performance Nutrition from $15,000 in year one to on track to generate $6m in revenue this year, leveraging social media platforms and creating interactive, relatable and valuable content to create a community and a brand voice.
18. Start an ecommerce platform ($2.43M/year)
Starting an eCommerce platform in South Carolina could be a lucrative venture because of the state's robust economic growth and supportive business environment. With a rising trend in online shopping and over 2 billion people preferring to shop online, you could tap into a vast market both locally and globally.
You could take advantage of South Carolina's favorable tax policies and low operational costs to set up your eCommerce business efficiently. By catering to niche markets or offering unique, locally-made products, you could distinguish your platform and attract a loyal customer base. For more details on this business idea, you can check out this page or read through some successful case studies.
A 3D CAD designer and product inventor who started as a side hustle and averaged $9,000 a month in revenue, shares his insights on the ups and downs of owning a service-based business alongside an eCommerce store, as well as lessons learned in customer acquisition and in generating multiple streams of passive income.
19. Start a beverages business ($21.5M/year)
Starting a beverages business in South Carolina presents a wealth of opportunities thanks to the state’s thriving hospitality and tourism industry. You could tap into the demand from numerous tourists visiting popular destinations like Myrtle Beach or Charleston by offering unique, locally-inspired beverages. Additionally, the state's growing agribusiness sector provides access to fresh, local ingredients that can set your drinks apart.
For the entrepreneurial-minded, South Carolina's business-friendly environment, characterized by low operating costs and supportive local communities, offers a solid foundation for your venture. You may draw inspiration from successful case studies of other beverage entrepreneurs who have found success in this industry. By understanding consumer preferences and creating high-quality products, you could establish effective distribution channels and build a profitable business.
BruMate is a successful insulated drinkware brand focused on the adult beverage community, with a flagship product that generated $2.1M in sales in 2017 and is now doing over $1.1M per month in sales, with plans to do $20M this year.
20. Start a bedding company ($8.89M/year)
Starting a bedding company in South Carolina could be a very profitable venture, given the state's burgeoning home and hospitality industries. The region's vibrant tourism sector, with numerous hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and vacation rentals, often seeks high-quality bedding to enhance their guest experience, thereby creating a strong local market for your products.
As you hone in on your niche, you could decide to cater to luxury Airbnb hosts or provide affordable, yet high-quality linens for college dormitories and apartments. Additionally, South Carolina’s growing population means a steady stream of new residents who may need quality bedding options for their new homes. For inspiration and detailed case studies on how to successfully launch your business, check out these success stories on our website.
Sheets & Giggles, an eco-friendly bedding brand, earned nearly $500,000 and 6,000 orders in the first 6 months of business through Indiegogo, and utilizes pun-based marketing and a DTC model to tap into a fragmented, low brand loyalty market.
21. Start a clothes business ($2.66M/year)
Starting a clothes business in South Carolina is a promising opportunity, given the increasing global demand for quality clothing. The state's business-friendly environment, combined with a rich textile history, provides fertile ground for new ventures in clothing manufacturing. You could capitalize on this growing market by tapping into niches such as streetwear, fitness, or leisure clothing, each tailored to specific consumer needs.
Moreover, South Carolina's strategic location and logistics infrastructure offer easy access to both domestic and international markets, enabling efficient distribution of your products. For inspiration and real-life examples, check out these successful case studies from entrepreneurs who have thrived in the clothing industry. To learn more about this business idea, visit the detailed overview on Starter Story.
Bryden is a clothing manufacturing agency that offers an end-to-end service to fashion brands all over the world, serving customers in over 20 countries and bringing in an average monthly revenue of $74,000 within just a few years of launching.
22. Start a women's clothing line ($958K/year)
Launching a women's clothing line in South Carolina offers ample growth potential for budding entrepreneurs. The local culture's unique fashion sensibilities allow you to create designs that cater to both traditional Southern charm and contemporary styles. By maintaining a strong online presence, you could reach broader markets beyond the state borders while capitalizing on regional trends.
Additionally, you could benefit from South Carolina's supportive business environment and access to resources that help small businesses thrive. With the continuous emergence of new fashion trends, there's always an audience eager for innovative and quality designs. To get inspired and learn from others who have succeeded in this niche, you could explore case studies of successful women's clothing lines on our site, and for more details about this opportunity, check here.
Boutique Rye is an online-only women's clothing and accessories boutique that has grown to 3,200 Facebook Group members and a successful website through organic customer sharing, live sales, and open communication with customers.
23. Start a jewelry making business ($2.98M/year)
Starting a jewelry making business in South Carolina could be a particularly lucrative venture due to the state's vibrant arts and crafts scene. With tourism being a significant industry, especially in cities like Charleston and Myrtle Beach, you could tap into a rich market of visitors looking for unique, handcrafted pieces.
Additionally, South Carolina's supportive small business environment, coupled with the growing global jewelry market expected to reach $292B by 2025, provides ample opportunities for growth and sales. For more insights, check out successful case studies from those who have thrived in this industry. Learn more about starting a jewelry making business here.
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.
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.
Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.
