25 Best & Easy To Start Blue Collar Business Ideas For 2024
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights
- 20 Blue Collar Business Ideas That Everyone Can Start
- 1. Parking Lot Cleanup
- 2. Residential or Commercial Cleaning Service
- 3. Pool Maintenance
- 4. Carpet Cleaning
- 5. Gutter Cleaning
- 6. Car wash and detailing
- 7. Car Repair
- 8. Delivery Boy
- 9. Knife Sharpening
- 10. Pet Waste Removal
- 11. Gardening Service
- 12. House Painting
- 13. Snow Removal
- 14. Construction
- 15. Plumbing
- 16. Electrical Repair
- 17. Waste Management
- 18. Graffiti Removal
- 19. Security Services
- 20. Photography
- 21. Fix-It Ace
- 22. Shine Squad Window Services
- 23. Trauma Scene Restoration Services
- 24. Generator Maintenance Solutions
- 25. Pest Management Solutions
- Blue Collar Side Hustle Opportunities
- Want to write a business plan?
- Easy Blue Collar Businesses to Start
- Find your niche and build your empire
- Low-Investment Launchpad:
- High-Demand Hustle:
- Flexible Freedom:
- Explore More Business Ideas
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- 28 Creative Food Truck Ideas for Your New Business
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- 54 Profitable Side Business Ideas to Start in 2024
- FAQs:
Blue collar business ideas are businesses that provides goods or services requiring manual labor or technical proficiency. It is often necessary to work with your hands in these businesses. Depending on what a blue collar man can do in this industry, it may also require some skill.
A blue-collar business can be a lucrative way of earning a living if you are willing to get your hands dirty. There used to be a significant difference between the earnings of blue-collar workers and white-collar workers, but nowadays, that is less true. The shortage of workers and skills gaps have resulted in very high median annual incomes in many manual businesses.
Do you have a positive, hardworking attitude? In that case, you’re perfect for blue-collar work. A blue-collar business doesn’t require a lot of capital. All you need are your skills and business ideas based on them.
Key Highlights
- Blue-collar businesses are a great option for people who are willing to work with their hands and don’t mind getting dirty. They can be very lucrative and offer flexible work schedules.
- There are many easy-to-start blue-collar businesses that require little upfront investment, such as carpet cleaning, gutter cleaning, and knife sharpening.
- High-demand blue-collar businesses include skilled trades, home repair, and tech-savvy solutions. These businesses require more skill and experience, but they can also be more profitable.
- Flexible blue-collar businesses include delivery driving, pet sitting, and freelance handyman work. These businesses are a good option for people who want to set their own hours and work on their own terms.
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20 Blue Collar Business Ideas That Everyone Can Start
There are several ways to become a blue collar millionaire from something you’re good at but have no idea how you can use.
1. Parking Lot Cleanup
It is possible to earn some income quickly by starting a remodeling bussiness parking lot cleaning business. Basically, it involves maintaining and cleaning the surface and surrounding area of a parking lot.
The tasks can include removing litter, debris, and weeds as well as pressure washing to remove dirt, grime, and stains. Sometimes, parking lot cleanup involves filling in cracks or potholes, as well as cleaning out debris.
It is important to maintain a safe and visually appealing parking lot for both pedestrians and drivers.
All you need are specialized tools like brooms, shovels, and pressure washers. Cleanup frequency depends on parking lot size and usage.
Pro Tip: This free cleaning service business plan template can help you write a successful business plan for your cleaning service.
2. Residential or Commercial Cleaning Service
Cleaning services for homes and businesses can be a great option for you if you don’t have a problem with dirty hands. These services can include a wide range of tasks, such as vacuuming, dusting, mopping, bathroom and kitchen cleaning, and laundry.
Private homes or apartments are typically cleaned by residential cleaning services. The services provided by commercial cleaning companies include cleaning offices, schools, and hospitals.
Cleaning businesses are typically low-cost, flexible, and offer opportunities for growth, which makes them a good choice for people looking for full-time opportunities. However, it is a physically demanding job that may require early start times and weekend or holiday work.
Pro Tip: This free cleaning service business plan template can help you write a successful business plan for your cleaning service.
3. Pool Maintenance
Some restaurants and gym clubs require their swimming pools to be kept clean, safe, and well-maintained. You can take advantage of this by providing pool maintenance services. In order to keep the pool in good working order and ready for use, a variety of tasks need to be performed such as:
- Cleaning the pool
- Testing and balancing the water
- Filtering and circulating the water
You only need to inspect and maintain the pool’s pump, filter, heater, and other equipment to ensure that it is in good working order.
4. Carpet Cleaning
Starting a carpet cleaning business is a great blue collar business idea. It involves removing dirt, stains, and other contaminants from carpets and rugs.
By regularly cleaning carpets, you can extend their life, improve indoor air quality, and enhance the look of home or business. It is the best business to start with little money from home or you can start as a private cleaning shop.
The average income for a carpet cleaner ranges from $30k to $40k. You can expand it by upgrading your cleaning machines and other services.
5. Gutter Cleaning
Compared to other businesses, gutter cleaning is relatively inexpensive. To complete the task, you will only need a ladder, gloves, and a gutter scoop. It involves cleaning the gutters and downspouts of a building to remove small objects, such as leaves and twigs.
Gutters are an important part of a building’s drainage system and are designed to prevent water damage. A clogged gutter, however, can lead to leaks, water damage, and mold growth. According to Ziprecruiter, across the United States the yearly income of a gutter cleaner is $31k to $47k.
6. Car wash and detailing
An increase in the number of cars increases the demand for car wash and detailing businesses.
Basically, it refers to the process of maintaining and cleaning the exterior and interior of a vehicle in order to make it appear and function better. Your services can be provided at a fixed location or by bringing equipment and supplies to the customer.
The appearance and value of a car are important to every car owner. You can start a lucrative and rewarding business cleaning cars and detailing them.
7. Car Repair
You can start your own car repair business if you are a trained or experienced mechanic. Basically, it involves diagnosing and repairing problems with cars. It is possible to repair cars in many different ways, from simple routine maintenance to more complex repairs, such as engine rebuilds and transmission replacements.
As a service provider, you can earn extra income by changing oil and filters. According to Satista between 2021 and 2022, U.S. consumers spent 194.9 billion dollars on vehicle maintenance and repairs.
8. Delivery Boy
If you are willing to earn money with a single penny in your pocket, working as a delivery boy is one of the finest blue collar business ideas. You can drive a bicycle or motorcycle and work for a variety of companies, including package delivery services, restaurants, and retail stores.
It is also possible to track and collect payments for goods and services, as well as track delivery routes and schedules. You can also work part-time or full-time, and you may be required to work weekends and holidays.
9. Knife Sharpening
A knife sharpening business is the right choice if you are hard-working and fearless. The types of knives can vary from kitchen knives to pocket knives to hunting knives. You can offer mobile services, where the sharpener visits the customer’s location, or have a physical storefront.
Knives are sharpened by grinding the edge down to remove dullness and nicks, and then honing it until it is sharp and precise. This can be done manually using a sharpening stone or with the use of specialized equipment such as a belt sander or grinder. Additionally, you can repair knives and replace blades.
10. Pet Waste Removal
It is the desire of every pet owner to keep their pet areas clean, and they are even willing to spend extra money to do so. You can remove pet waste from yards, parks, and other outdoor areas by offering pet waste removal services.
This service is used by many pet owners since they don’t have the time to clean up their pets’ waste. It is also used by property owners who want their outdoor space to remain tidy and hygienic. Furthermore, if lingering odors or bacteria are present, you can offer deodorizing and sanitizing services.
11. Gardening Service
You should consider this as a blue collar business idea if you enjoy planting. Gardening services include care and maintenance of gardens, lawns, and other outdoor spaces. At first, it is an inexpensive business to start, but you can upgrade your services by updating the machines you use for trimming or planting.
According to Sharpsheets, the starting cost of this business is $500 if you perform manual tasks like trimming by hand. However, if you want to expand this business to include machine trimming, you will need to invest $15k to $50k.
Pro Tip: To start a landscape business, you will need a business plan as a guide. Using a lawn care business plan template makes writing a business plan easy.
12. House Painting
It is possible to consider house painting a blue collar business idea because it requires manual labor and practical skills. Painters provide services to homeowners, businesses, and other buildings, including painting the interior or exterior.
As a house painter, you need to understand different paint finishes and techniques, as well as the skills and knowledge needed to prepare surfaces, mix paint, and apply it. Additionally, you must be physically fit and capable of working at height.
If you would like to gain access to industry resources and network with peers, you may want to consider joining a professional organization, such as the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.
13. Snow Removal
Snow removal businesses can earn a lot of money during the winter season if you don’t mind working in snowy weather. This involves providing services such as clearing snow and ice from driveways, sidewalks, and roads.
It needs an average startup cost. According to Jobber’s, snow removal businesses typically require approximately $5k to $10k for purchasing equipment. You’ll need to acquire the necessary equipment and materials, such as snow plows and shovels.
To make your mark in the snow removal industry, you can join the Snow & Ice Management Association for easy access to resources and networking opportunities. You can start your own business after that.
14. Construction
You can start a construction business if you are hard-working and physically fit. It involves providing construction and renovation services for homes, offices, and other structures.
Depending on your area of specialization, you may specialize in residential or commercial construction. Additionally, you must have knowledge to operate necessary equipment such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes.
15. Plumbing
The plumbing business involves installing, repairing, and maintaining plumbing systems in homes, offices, and other buildings.
Startup costs are low because all you need is equipment such as pipe cutters, wrenches, and plumbing snakes.
According to Startup Back you will need around $5k for plumbing equipment. It is possible to expand your business by signing contracts with nearby plumbing companies, but you need to upgrade your equipment first.
16. Electrical Repair
Since electricity is risky, you may suffer heavy damage if you do not know how to handle it. So, if you are fearless and have the experience you can start working as an electrical repairman.
In order to succeed, you will need to be familiar with electrical systems and techniques. Also, you will need to be able to use equipment such as wire strippers, multimeters, and circuit testers. It is similar to a labor business idea. You can earn a large amount of money from your local electric company’s contracts by offering your services.
You can use the National Electrical Contractors Association to find contractors in your area.
17. Waste Management
As the population grows, so does the waste. You can start a waste management business if you don’t mind your hands getting dirty or if you don’t have any infection problems with waste. As part of this service, waste and recyclables are collected, transported, and disposed of.
You can specify your industry where you will provide your services as follows:
- Disposal of medical waste
- Recycling rubber
- Plastic recycling
- Businesses that deal with scrap
18. Graffiti Removal
Graffiti is unauthorized writing or drawing on a public or private structure or surface, such as a wall, building, or bridge with a variety of materials, such as spray paint, markers, or chalk.
Graffiti is often viewed as illegal in many places, but it is also viewed as art in some places. Thus, you can provide graffiti removal services in some areas where it is illegal. You can use different methods in your services like:
- Power washing: Graffiti can be removed from brick, concrete, and metal surfaces with high-pressure water.
- Solvents: These solvents dissolve graffiti from metals and plastics.
- Sandblasting: A high-pressure stream of sand is used to remove graffiti from bricks or concrete.
- Chemical strippers: Apply these products to graffiti, which soften the paint and make it easier to scrape off.
19. Security Services
You can start a security services business if you are fearless and have the nerves to protect people from any danger. Security service businesses provide protection and safety for individuals and organizations, and they can be rewarding opportunities for entrepreneurs. Nonetheless, this type of business entails some risks that must be carefully considered.
Providing security services simply requires purchasing the necessary equipment, such as uniforms, radios, and possibly weapons if you intend to provide armed security services. It is also important and beneficial to have insurance in this business if anything goes wrong. You can also specify your industry where you can offer your security services such as:
- Event security
- Personal security
- Corporate security
- Residential security
20. Photography
If you have a passion for capturing and creating visually stunning images, starting a photography business can be a rewarding opportunity. As a photographer you can offer a variety of services to clients looking to preserve special moments or promote their businesses, such as
- Portrait photography
- Event photography
- Product photography
It’s an average cost startup business, all you need is equipment such as a camera, lenses, lighting equipment. The size of your business also influences how much it costs, along with the services you offer.
21. Fix-It Ace
The Fix-It Ace offers an array of home repair services, addressing both interior and exterior needs based on clients’ requirements. This business, often known as the “handyman” service, offers flexible part-time opportunities with relatively low overhead costs and the potential for high-profit margins.
- Pro Tip: Establish a strong online presence by showcasing before-and-after images of your repair work to attract potential clients.
22. Shine Squad Window Services
Embark on a window cleaning venture for those passionate about space sanitation. This business assures a flexible work schedule and recurring clientele, given the regular maintenance required for windows. It’s a capital-efficient business with minimal overhead expenses.
- Pro Tip: Offer discounted package deals for regular customers to encourage repeat business and build long-term relationships.
23. Trauma Scene Restoration Services
Enter the crime scene and trauma cleanup industry—a rapidly growing, profitable venture. This line of work involves meticulous cleanup at crime scenes, handling cases involving violent crimes or unexpected deaths. It’s a challenging yet lucrative opportunity for those prepared to manage bloodborne pathogens and emotionally taxing situations.
- Pro Tip: Invest in specialized training and certifications to ensure compliance with safety standards and build credibility in this sensitive field.
24. Generator Maintenance Solutions
Generators, essential for power backup, demand consistent maintenance and repair. Establishing a generator repair service can be lucrative. By targeting both residential and commercial clients, especially new generator buyers, you can offer installation and repair services. Implementing door-to-door services can accelerate business growth.
- Pro Tip: Offer maintenance contracts to clients for regular check-ups, ensuring ongoing business and customer loyalty.
25. Pest Management Solutions
The pest control industry, continuously expanding due to evolving pest issues, presents a lucrative business opportunity. Offering solutions to tackle these nuisances, homeowners readily invest in pest control services to safeguard their properties. This sector promises substantial earning potential and sustained demand.
- Pro Tip: Leverage eco-friendly pest control methods to attract environmentally conscious clientele and stand out in the market.
Blue Collar Side Hustle Opportunities
Looking to boost your income with a side hustle? Blue collar businesses offer fantastic opportunities. Here are some side gigs you can kick off with minimal investment:
- Mobile Detailing: Make cars shine with your detailing skills. This side hustle requires minimal investment in equipment and offers flexibility in scheduling your gigs.
- Freelance Handyman: Leverage your repair and assembly skills. Offer services like furniture assembly or minor home repairs on a freelance basis, setting your own rates.
- Pet Sitting Paw-ty: Love animals? Provide pet sitting or dog walking services. This flexible gig allows you to work around your schedule while enjoying time with furry friends.
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Easy Blue Collar Businesses to Start
Want to start a blue collar business without breaking the bank? Consider these easy-to-launch ventures:
- Carpet Cleaning: Offering carpet cleaning services requires minimal initial investment. With the right equipment and skills, you can extend the life of carpets while earning a steady income.
- Gutter Cleaning: Keep gutters clean and clog-free. All you need is a few basic tools like a ladder and gloves to start this low-cost, high-demand business.
- Knife Sharpening: Got a knack for knife sharpening? Offer mobile services or set up a storefront. With minimal equipment, you can cater to homeowners and culinary enthusiasts.
Each of these business ideas requires little upfront investment, making them perfect options for those looking to start a blue collar venture without a hefty initial cost.
Find your niche and build your empire
Before you jump in, let’s be real: there’s no magic formula for “easy money.” Every business requires hard work, dedication, and a smart strategy. Instead of chasing quick bucks, let’s focus on finding the right fit for your skills, interests, and resources.
Low-Investment Launchpad:
- Cleaning Services: Dust bunnies trembling? Turn your tidying skills into a thriving business. Low startup costs, high demand, and flexible schedules make this a popular option.
- Landscaping Magic: Green thumb? Transform yards from drab to fab! This business requires minimal equipment and offers the satisfaction of creating beautiful outdoor spaces.
- Mobile Detailing: Make cars sparkle like new! This service requires minimal investment and offers the freedom to work on your own terms.
High-Demand Hustle:
- Skilled Trades: Master the art of plumbing, electrical work, or construction. These specialized skills command higher income potential and consistent demand.
- Home Repair Hero: Fix leaky faucets, creaky doors, and anything in between. Your handyman skills can be a goldmine in any neighborhood.
- Tech-Savvy Solutions: Got a knack for computers or gadgets? Offer tech support, repair services, or even smart home installations. This growing field offers high earning potential.
Flexible Freedom:
- Delivery Dasher: Need for speed? Zip through town on two wheels, delivering food or packages to hungry customers. Set your own hours and enjoy the open road.
- Pet Sitting Paw-ty: Animal lover? Provide peace of mind to pet owners with pet sitting or walking services. Flexible schedules and furry friends make this a delightful choice.
- Freelance Handyman: From furniture assembly to minor repairs, offer your skills on a project-by-project basis. This allows you to choose your work and set your own rates.
Remember: Success doesn’t come from shortcuts, but from passion, dedication, and building value for your customers. So, find your niche, hone your skills, and go out there to build your own blue-collar empire!
Bonus Tip: Research local regulations and permits for your chosen business. Network with other entrepreneurs and learn from their experiences.
Explore More Business Ideas
FAQs:
Blue-collar businesses are enterprises that provide manual labor or skilled trades services. These businesses typically involve hands-on work and are often associated with industries such as construction, maintenance, repair, transportation, and manufacturing.
Blue-collar businesses can be a good option for entrepreneurs due to several reasons. These businesses often have lower startup costs compared to some white-collar or technology-focused ventures. Additionally, there is a consistent demand for blue-collar services, creating potential for steady income and job security. Blue-collar businesses also provide opportunities for individuals with practical skills and expertise to establish their own enterprises.
Some of the best and easy-to-start blue-collar business ideas for 2024 include residential cleaning services, landscaping and lawn care, handyman services, painting and decorating, pressure washing, pet grooming and sitting, moving and delivery services, mobile car detailing, home renovation and remodeling, and small-scale construction projects.
Starting a blue-collar business requires careful planning and execution. Key steps include identifying your specific target market and services, obtaining any necessary licenses or certifications, acquiring the right tools and equipment, establishing a pricing strategy, creating a marketing plan to attract customers, and ensuring compliance with any industry regulations or safety standards.
The specific skills or qualifications needed to start a blue-collar business depend on the nature of the business. Some blue-collar businesses may require technical skills or certifications, such as plumbing, electrical work, or HVAC installation. However, many blue-collar businesses can be started with general handyman skills, good organizational abilities, and a willingness to learn and adapt to different tasks. It is important to assess your own capabilities and consider acquiring any necessary training or certifications before launching your business.
