Best Business Ideas for Teens to Start in 2022

People around the world are discovering the appeal of building a business. With modern technology, even offline businesses can benefit from the internet’s promotional resources. It has never been easier for teens to start their businesses. We will discuss the best business ideas for teens so you can go ahead and get started.

There are many ways that teens can start their own businesses and entrepreneurship may be more lucrative than working for someone else.

Choosing the Best Small Business Ideas for Teens

We all have our commitments to keep in mind when starting a business. Because teenagers have school and limited work experience, it is crucial to choose a business that has:

A Low Start-Up Cost

Teenagers typically either have an entry-level job or no job at all. It can be challenging for adults to drop tens of thousands to start a business, so it is near impossible for a teen to do so. Luckily, there are tons of low start-up businesses for teenagers.

Flexible Work Hours

Between school, sports, and other extracurricular activities, starting a business that doesn’t require around-the-clock attention is helpful. The benefit of being a teenager, however, is having summers off. So, if the business begins to do well, it is always possible to get extra hours in during the break.

22 Best Business Ideas for Teens

While looking through the best business ideas for teens, keep in mind your interests. The best business to start is one that you will enjoy.

1. Childcare

The great thing about childcare is that it is an in-demand service. With websites dedicated to babysitting, it is easy to find gigs watching kids for date night, after school, or just about any time you can think of. This is a great business opportunity for teens who enjoy working with children. Bonus points if you already have experience helping out with younger siblings or family members.

2. Pet Sitting

If making money taking care of animals sounds like a dream, this is a perfect business opportunity. When people go out of town, they can’t always take their pets. Though pet owners can drop some animals at a pet daycare center, it isn’t always an option. Many individuals would prefer a pet sitter who can stop by their house so their pets can stay at home. Plus, some animals, such as birds or hamsters, don’t need a lot of extra attention.

3. Car Washing or Detailing

Everyone loves having a fresh, clean car. However, not everyone likes taking the time to go and get it done. All you need to start is soap, water, and a sponge. You can post your services to sites like Craigslist or print flyers the old-fashioned way.

Related: How to start a car detailing business

4. Blogging

If you enjoy sharing, writing, and taking pictures, blogging may be the perfect fit. You can start a blog about anything you can think of and add to it whenever you like. Earn money blogging by using affiliate links, sponsored posts, or selling digital products such as e-books.

5. Sell on Etsy

Both buying and selling on Etsy continue to grow in popularity, and you are sure to find people who want what you make. Whether you excel at a homemade craft or put together helpful online resources, you can sell it on Etsy. You don’t need to create physical products either; you can create stylish checklists, planners, and e-books to sell too.

Related: How to start an Etsy store

6. eBay Store

Have you ever thought about selling something on eBay? If not, think about it, because it is a great way to quickly make some cash. An easy way to get the hang of it is to start selling some of the things you own that you no longer use. Later you can look at yard sales or purchase children’s clothes at thrift stores and then resell them on eBay.

Related: How to start selling on eBay

7. Podcasting

More people are listening to podcasts than ever. As with blogging, you can discuss anything under the sun, and there will be people interested in hearing more about it. You can make money by landing paid advertisements from brands or promoting affiliate links.

8. Tutoring

Is there a subject you know a lot about? You may be the perfect person to help other teens or younger kids with homework. School isn’t easy for many students, and having a tutor can be extremely helpful. By tutoring, you get a fulfilling side business and charge upwards of $40 an hour.

Learn how to start a private tutoring business

9. Cleaning

Virtually no one looks forward to cleaning their house and will gladly pay someone else to do it. Once you get a few regular clients, you can make money regularly without advertising as much. If you don’t mind cleaning, you can make a decent amount of money while helping busy families.

Learn how to start a house cleaning business

10. Dog Walking

Unlike pet sitting, dog walkers regularly assist the owners. As a dog walker, you will ensure that dogs get plenty of exercise during the day while their owners are busy. Find clients through dog walking apps or online websites to get started. You may even find that word of mouth works well after having a client or two.

Learn how to start a dog walking business

11. Musician

If you are talented at playing an instrument, you may start a business playing music. Gather other skilled artists to form a band, then play gigs locally. Not only will you make a bit of extra cash, but you can have fun doing it.

12. Graphic Designer

A graphic design business can be pretty profitable for teens who have an eye for design and are tech-savvy. You can design logos, t-shirts, digital art, and more. If you already have a laptop with a touch screen, you will need to purchase the software. Most design software is relatively inexpensive, especially if paid for on a monthly basis.

Clients can be found by reaching out to small business owners in your community, Craigslist, and job marketplaces like Upwork or Fiverr.

Learn how to start a graphic design business

13. Social Media Influencer

Tens of thousands of individuals have turned their social media accounts into a source of income. You can choose whichever subject you like to discuss, whether it be a hobby or skill. Share helpful tips and tricks on a topic and begin using affiliate marketing to earn extra money. You’re halfway there if you already have an Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook account.

14. Social Media Marketing

Many small business owners struggle with their social media marketing as they either don’t have the time or patience to learn it. Fortunately, most young people have grown up on social media, and can easily navigate through the various platforms. If you have a knack for this, then offer your services to local businesses in the area. They are more than happy to outsource so they can focus on their business.

Related: How to start a social media marketing business

15. Personal Shopping

For teens who drive, offering to run errands for neighbors or friends could be an easy way to start a business and make money. Typical tasks can include running to the grocery store, picking up prescriptions, dry cleaning, and more. This business can be beneficial to home-bound people who have limited mobility. Plus, this business idea doesn’t require specialized skills, and you can set your own hours.

Related: How to start a personal shopping business

16. Write and Sell a Book on Amazon

Gone are the days when you needed to submit books to a publisher to get them printed. Now, you can self-publish by writing and selling a book on Amazon. You can write a novel or design a children’s book; nothing is off-limits. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to work with you to create an account and publish the book for you.

17. Craft Fair Vendor

Whether you make jewelry, soap, candles, paintings, or other types of crafts, you can easily sell your art at craft fairs and your local farmer’s market. Do a little research to see where craft fairs are held near you, and sign up for them when you can. You may need to pay a small fee for a booth at some locations, but most are inexpensive.

Learn how to start a craft business

18. Photography

If you have a smartphone, you can start a photography business. DSLR cameras are great to have, but most smartphones now can take stunning, high-quality photos. You can niche down to specialize in taking photographs of pets, as a wedding photographer, taking family portraits, or even take pictures for social media influencers or businesses.

Learn How to start a photography business

19. Lawn Care and Landscaping

Lawn care and landscaping have been a business that teens have started for decades now, but that doesn’t make it less relevant. It is a service that needs to be done regularly, making it easier to get steady clients. You will need some equipment to get started, so this business works best for teens whose parents are willing to lend theirs.

Related: How to start a lawn care business

20. Sell an Online Course

Whether you teach art, music, or another skill, some people are looking to learn what you teach. If you have a knack for something, record some instructional videos and sell a course. You can purchase online programs to help you create sales pages and link to unlisted YouTube videos.

21. Hobby Teacher

If you want to teach your craft but would instead do so in person, consider starting a hobby teaching business. Teach clients how to play piano, paint a landscape, or whatever hobby you excel at. You can help people find their new passion while making money doing something you already love.

22. Seasonal Chores

Each season comes with new chores that need to be done around the house. During the fall, you can offer to rake leaves. When winter comes around, you can shovel snow and salt sidewalks. You can help individuals tend to their gardens in the spring and summer. Most seasonal chores require equipment your parents likely already have, but if not, it is a relatively low start-up cost.

23. Streamer

If you love playing video games, streaming on online platforms, such as Twitch, can allow you to earn some money while you play them. Most people will watch and subscribe to gamers with a high skill level or good commentary. You will need to hit a certain number of subscribers and views to get paid.

24. Gift Wrapping

There are plenty of occasions where people need gifts wrapped. They will be willing to hire you to do it if you can wrap gifts beautifully or are simply ready to do a lot at once. You can offer to wrap gifts for holidays, birthdays, and special occasions for a year-round business.

Related: How to start a gift wrapping service

25. Music Lessons

If you have a knack for music, teaching music may be a rewarding way to earn some cash. Many kids want to learn how to play an instrument, but not all parents can afford expensive lessons. To start finding clients, you can offer lessons to your friends and people in the neighborhood, at the library, or even to kids at school.

Related: How to start a music tutoring business

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most commonly asked questions regarding the best business ideas for teens.

Is it Legal For Teens to Start a Business?

Yes, teens can start a business legally. The laws of each state will vary, so be sure to check your local legal requirements. A parent or guardian may need to sign on the teenager’s behalf in some cases.

Which Business is Best for a Teenage Girl?

There are various options for teenage girls looking to start a business. Whether you want to work online, offer services, or create handmade products, there is something for you. Many teenage girls enjoy babysitting, pet sitting, or dog walking.

How Can A Teenager Start a Business Online With No Money?

If starting an online business without any money to begin with, a teenager will have two options. You can either get a part-time job to get some extra cash to afford the start-up costs or choose something without no start-up costs. Online businesses such as blogging, streaming, podcasting, and being an influencer only require technology most teens already have.

How Can a Teen Entrepreneur Be Successful?

Whether you are a teenager or 80 years old, the same factors apply to successful entrepreneurs. You must believe in the product or service you are selling, and it helps if it is something you enjoy doing. It may take time to see success, so stay committed to growing and learning throughout the process.

Wrapping Up Best Business Ideas for Teens

With advancements in technology, it has become easier for anyone to earn extra cash. Teens can start a business just like adults can, but the best business ideas for teens will be those with low start-up costs and some time flexibility. Whether you make gorgeous handmade crafts, have a knack for digital design, or would like to offer a service to help others, there is plenty of room for you to start a profitable business.