In the fast-paced, ever-evolving 21st-century marketplace, it’s easy to be mesmerized by the latest technological marvels, innovative startups, or glamorous enterprises that regularly capture headlines. Yet, amid this constant noise and flash, there lies a segment of businesses that, despite their perceived mundanity, consistently yield substantial profits and play an indispensable role in our daily lives. These are the so-called “boring” businesses – unassuming in nature but formidable in their financial performance and societal impact.
In this article, we will shed light on 39 boring businesses that make money, illustrating that sometimes, beneath a veneer of simplicity and routine, lies a robust model of sustainability and profitability.
1. Parking Lots
At first glance, parking lots might seem like the epitome of the mundane. Just patches of asphalt scattered throughout urban landscapes, waiting for vehicles to occupy them for a few hours. But peel back this veneer of simplicity and a strategic asset emerges. As urbanization intensifies, space becomes a luxury and those unassuming lots transform into goldmines.
Their operational simplicity is their superpower: minimal maintenance, straightforward management, and a steady revenue stream. Unlike the fickle nature of trendy startups or retail ventures, parking lots offer consistent returns. Plus, they’re often strategic placeholders for future development opportunities, be it commercial complexes or residential high-rises.
Worth Knowing
The global vehicle population, estimated at 1.4 Billion in 2023 according to the World Bank, is expected to reach 1.6 Billion by 2030.
2. Chemical Disposal from a Factory
In the intricate web of modern industry, the transport and disposal of chemical waste might seem like a mere footnote, often overlooked in favor of more glamorous sectors. Yet, this ‘boring’ business plays a pivotal role in our production ecosystem. As industries prioritize sustainability, the proper handling of chemical by-products becomes paramount.
Transporting waste between factories or ensuring its safe disposal isn’t just an operational need—it’s a commitment to environmental responsibility. While it lacks the glitz of high-tech innovation, this sector boasts a consistent demand, stringent regulatory barriers (providing a moat against competition), and the potential for long-term contracts. Furthermore, as environmental concerns amplify, businesses in this realm are positioned to be invaluable partners to large-scale manufacturers.
3. Running a port-a-potty rental
This seemingly mundane industry is a linchpin in the vast machinery of event management and outdoor ventures. With every outdoor concert, construction site, or large-scale public gathering, there’s an unseen yet crucial demand for clean, accessible sanitation solutions. Enter the unsung heroes: port-a-potty rental businesses. While they may not bask in the limelight, their consistent need, predictable revenue streams, and ability to scale make them an astute business choice. Moreover, the barriers to entry—such as fleet management, sanitation standards, and logistics—ensure a degree of insulation from fleeting market entrants.
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4. Tree Removal Service
Tree removal services are essential in the wheel of expanding cities and evolving landscapes. As homeowners seek to enhance property aesthetics or as urban planners work towards infrastructure development, professional tree removal services become indispensable. Beyond mere removal, these businesses often branch out into ancillary services like pruning, stump grinding, and emergency storm damage control.
The cyclic nature of their demand—be it seasonal changes or post-storm cleanups—ensures consistent business. Coupled with the specialized skill set and equipment required, it’s a sector with substantive entry barriers, allowing established players to root themselves firmly.
5. Elevator Repair Service
Elevators are integral components of modern urban infrastructure, especially in commercial and residential high-rise buildings. Ensuring their optimal operation and safety is the role of elevator repair services. These professionals specialize in diagnosing, maintaining, and repairing elevator systems to ensure uninterrupted service.
From a business perspective, the demand for elevator repair is consistent and indispensable. Buildings require periodic maintenance, safety audits, and prompt repairs to comply with safety standards and regulations. Downtime or malfunctions can lead to significant disruptions and potential liabilities for building managers. As urbanization continues and the number of high-rise structures increases, the role of skilled elevator technicians becomes even more essential. Their expertise in ensuring the reliability and safety of vertical transportation systems is paramount for the smooth operation of urban buildings, making elevator repair a vital and sustainable business avenue.
6. Plumbing Services
The significance of plumbing services in infrastructure cannot be understated. These professionals ensure the proper functioning of water supply and waste disposal systems in residential, commercial, and industrial spaces. A functional plumbing system is essential not only for convenience but also for public health, preventing waterborne diseases and ensuring sanitation standards are met.
From a business viewpoint, plumbing services offer consistent demand, driven by the perpetual need for repairs, maintenance, and new installations. Moreover, as regulatory standards evolve, especially those centered on water conservation and sustainable practices, the expertise of plumbers becomes crucial for compliance. Aging infrastructure further necessitates regular inspections and maintenance, solidifying the role of plumbers in facility management.
Worth Knowing
The U.S. plumbing industry is worth $124.2 billion.
7. Renting Storage Units
The storage unit rental business represents a robust segment within the real estate industry. Characterized by its low overhead and consistent demand, this sector caters to both individuals and businesses seeking additional space for their possessions or inventory. In urban areas, where space is often at a premium, the need for external storage solutions has seen a steady rise. Factors such as urban migration, downsizing, or business expansions further drive demand.
From an operational standpoint, storage unit facilities typically require minimal maintenance compared to other real estate properties. Moreover, with the advent of digital platforms, the management, booking, and payment processes have become more streamlined, reducing administrative burdens.
8. Ice Vending Business
The ice vending business, often overlooked in the retail industry, presents a viable opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs. These machines, catering to a consistent demand for ice, especially in warmer regions, offer the advantage of automated sales with minimal intervention. The upfront cost associated with procuring and installing machines is balanced by reduced operational expenses, given the absence of regular staffing requirements and modest maintenance costs.
Additionally, as the sector sees growth in outdoor activities and travel, the demand for conveniently accessible ice becomes more pronounced. For businesses, the strategic positioning of these machines in areas of high consumer traffic or proximity to event locations is crucial to optimize sales.
9. Sewer Rodding
One of the critical components of urban infrastructure maintenance is sewer rodding. Sewer rodding involves clearing blockages in drainpipes and sewer lines, ensuring waste flows without hindrance, thus preventing potential backups and infrastructure damage.
From a business perspective, the demand for sewer rodding is consistent, given the inevitable buildup of debris and obstructions over time in urban pipelines. Proper maintenance also aids in prolonging the lifespan of sewage systems, saving municipalities and property owners significant costs in the long run.
10. Running a Cloud Kitchen
Cloud kitchens, operating without traditional dine-in facilities, prioritize online orders and delivery. The streamlined operational structure results in reduced overhead costs, as expenses related to dining space, on-site staffing, and extensive real estate are minimized. Furthermore, the model facilitates flexibility, allowing businesses to adapt quickly to market shifts and capitalize on consumer demand dynamics.
Integration with advanced technology platforms ensures efficient order processing, real-time tracking, and improved customer interactions. Given the increasing inclination of consumers towards online food ordering coupled with the benefits of operational efficiency, cloud kitchens present a compelling business model for entrepreneurs and investors in the food service industry.
11. Billboard Rental
The value of billboard rentals in the advertising sector is considerable, even in an era dominated by digital channels. Strategically positioned in high-traffic areas or urban centers, billboards provide advertisers with consistent and high-impact visibility. The financial model for billboard rentals is compelling; after the initial investment in structure and placement, ongoing maintenance costs are manageable, while potential rental income from advertisers can be substantial. The introduction of digital billboards has added versatility, permitting dynamic content changes and allowing multiple advertisers to occupy the same space in rotation.
Although online advertising continues its rapid growth, the direct and localized impact of billboards cannot be overlooked. For stakeholders considering a reliable investment in the advertising sector, billboard rentals offer consistent revenue potential and a tangible presence in a rapidly evolving industry.
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12. Document Shredding
Document shredding is an indispensable service in today’s data-driven business landscape. Companies regularly handle sensitive information, making secure disposal crucial to prevent data breaches and ensure regulatory compliance. With inherent risks associated with mishandled data, professional document shredding services provide a necessary solution. This business caters to a consistent demand across industries, underpinned by the universal need for data protection.
13. Oil Change Service
The oil change service industry remains a linchpin in the automotive sector’s maintenance framework. Given that regular oil changes are fundamental for the longevity and efficient performance of vehicles, this service ensures that engines run smoothly and reduces wear over time.
From a business standpoint, the repetitive nature of oil changes—typically recommended every few thousand miles—guarantees a steady stream of customers. This consistent demand translates to reliable revenue for service providers. Furthermore, with the vast number of vehicles on the road, and many owners lacking the time or expertise for DIY maintenance, professional oil change services remain invaluable.
14. Online Surveys and Captcha Solving
Online surveys serve dual purposes: they act as a tool for companies to glean valuable insights about market trends and consumer behavior, while also providing a means for internet users to earn from their feedback. Captcha solving, on the other hand, is integral to ensuring website security and user authenticity. As cyber threats loom, the demand for captcha verification surges.
From a business vantage point, these services can be scaled easily, reaching a global audience with minimal overheads. Although they may not be glamorous ventures, the consistent demand, scalability, and contribution to the digital user experience make online surveys and captcha solving a sound and sustainable business avenue in the digital age.
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15. Domain Trading
Domain trading, often situated in the background of the digital landscape, represents a nuanced avenue of investment in the vast online ecosystem. Similar to traditional real estate, domains are acquired, held, or sold based on their perceived value or potential worth. As businesses continually migrate and expand online, a memorable and relevant domain name becomes a prized asset, often serving as a brand’s first impression. The demand for concise, clear, and recognizable domains ensures that domain trading remains a lucrative venture for those astute enough to anticipate trends and secure valuable web addresses. Financially, the low maintenance costs associated with holding a domain, coupled with the potential for significant returns upon sale, make it an attractive investment.
16. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing stands as a nuanced strategy within the digital marketing spectrum, bridging product creators and potential consumers through trusted intermediaries or affiliates. At its core, this model rewards affiliates for each customer brought in by their marketing efforts, creating a performance-based reward system.
For businesses, this translates to cost-effective marketing, as they remunerate based on actual sales or conversions, reducing speculative advertising expenditure. On the flip side, affiliates benefit from diversified revenue streams without the need to develop or store products. The scalability of affiliate marketing, combined with the rise of digital platforms and analytic tools, allows for precise targeting and optimization.
While the mechanics of affiliate marketing may seem pedestrian to some, its efficacy in driving targeted conversions and ensuring return on investment elevates it as a key strategy for online revenue generation.
17. Transcription
Transcription services entail converting spoken language into written text, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail. From legal proceedings and medical consultations to business meetings and academic lectures, the need for clear, written records is paramount.
As businesses and institutions recognize the value of preserving verbal exchanges in a structured, retrievable format, the demand for skilled transcriptionists remains consistent. Moreover, with the proliferation of digital content, transcription facilitates accessibility, search optimization, and content repurposing.
Worth Knowing
An average person talks about 140 words per minute.
18. Mobile Auto Detailing Business
Mobile auto detailing embodies a modern solution to traditional vehicle maintenance. This service brings specialized vehicle cleaning and restoration directly to the client’s location, emphasizing convenience and personalized care. In an era where time is a premium commodity, customers value services that adapt to their schedules, eliminating the need for lengthy visits to fixed detailing locations.
For businesses, the mobile model reduces overheads associated with maintaining large facilities, allowing for a leaner operational structure. Furthermore, the direct, on-site interaction fosters stronger customer relationships and potential for repeat business. The rise in vehicle ownership coupled with an increasing demand for time-efficient services positions mobile auto detailing as a sustainable venture.
19. Senior Transportation Business
As populations age, mobility challenges become increasingly prevalent. This specialized transportation caters to the unique needs of the elderly, ensuring safe, convenient, and dignified travel. Whether it’s routine medical appointments, grocery shopping, or social engagements, these services grant seniors the autonomy they might otherwise lack due to physical limitations or concerns about personal safety.
From an economic standpoint, the aging global population ensures a growing market for this sector. Beyond the obvious utility, senior transportation services often become integral in the lives of their clients, offering not just transport, but also companionship and a bridge to broader community interactions.
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20. Garage Sale Flipping
The business of garage sale flipping, though niche, represents a meticulous approach to asset valuation and resale. Professionals in this domain purchase items from garage sales at competitive prices and then resell them through appropriate channels at increased values.
Their success hinges on a deep understanding of market demand, coupled with the ability to discern items with resale potential. The evolution of online platforms has further streamlined this resale process, enabling access to broader audiences and more efficient price-setting mechanisms. With a strategic approach, garage sale flipping can achieve a favorable return on investment, given the relatively low acquisition costs.
21. Hauling and Processing Waste Grease from Restaurants
Hauling and processing waste grease ensures that restaurants adhere to health and environmental standards by efficiently managing and disposing of waste by-products. Waste grease, if not properly handled, can pose environmental hazards and strain sewage infrastructure. For restaurants, partnering with reliable grease hauling firms is not just a matter of regulatory compliance but also operational efficiency.
On the business side, the consistent production of waste grease across the restaurant sector ensures a steady demand for these specialized services. Furthermore, processed grease often finds a second life in industries like biodiesel production, adding an element of sustainability to the business model.
22. Pet Crematorium
The concept of a pet crematorium, while somber, addresses a profound need in our increasingly pet-centric societies. As many regard pets not just as animals, but as cherished family members, the importance of providing dignified end-of-life services becomes paramount. The pet crematorium business offers owners a means to memorialize their beloved companions in a respectful manner. The service requires meticulous handling, both in terms of operational efficiency and emotional sensitivity towards grieving pet owners.
From a business perspective, the growing pet ownership rates globally signal a stable and growing demand for such services. Moreover, by offering customizable memorial products and grief support, businesses can further diversify their offerings.
Worth Knowing
The global pet funeral services market size was valued at USD 1.6 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow at a lucrative compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.27% from 2023 to 2030.
23. Tax Preparation
Tax preparation, though often seen as a routine task, is pivotal in the financial landscape. Every year, as individuals and businesses confront intricate tax codes, the value of tax professionals becomes undeniable. They guarantee precise reporting, aid clients in maximizing deductions, and adeptly steer through shifting regulations. The cyclical onset of tax season consistently sustains the need for their expertise. Furthermore, as global financial transactions become more complex and international tax laws more nuanced, the call for specialized tax preparation services intensifies.
24. Vending Machine Business
The vending machine business stands as a testament to the power of convenience-driven commerce. These unattended retail units efficiently cater to on-the-go consumers, providing quick access to beverages, snacks, and even non-food items in strategic locations such as transit hubs, offices, and educational institutions. Their operational model is distinct: minimal human intervention, streamlined inventory management, and rapid transaction processing.
From a business perspective, vending machines offer relatively low overheads once initial investments are recouped, and their 24/7 availability can generate consistent revenue streams. The advent of digital payments and smart technology has further elevated the vending machine’s role, allowing for dynamic pricing, real-time inventory tracking, and enhanced user experience.
25. Pest Control Business
The pest control business occupies a critical niche in ensuring habitable and hygienic environments. As urban centers expand and populations grow, the challenge of managing pests—ranging from insects to rodents—becomes more pronounced. This business responds to a basic need: to protect residential, commercial, and agricultural spaces from unwanted pests and the potential health risks they pose. The technical expertise required in this field is extensive, encompassing knowledge of pest behaviors, safe chemical applications, and environmental considerations.
Moreover, regularity in service requests, whether for preventive measures or addressing infestations, ensures a consistent revenue stream. With the increasing emphasis on health standards and structural integrity in urban planning, the demand for professional pest control services is poised for sustained growth.
26. End-of-life Hospice Care
End-of-life hospice care focuses on offering comfort, dignity, and quality of life to those facing terminal illnesses. Its holistic approach addresses not only medical needs but also provides emotional, psychological, and spiritual support.
Moreover, as society becomes increasingly aware of the importance of compassionate end-of-life care, the demand for these services is anticipated to grow. Financially, while stringent regulations and varying reimbursement models present challenges, the sector’s significance and the burgeoning aging population ensure its continued relevance and potential for sustainable growth.
27. Insurtech
Operating at the intersection of traditional insurance models and cutting-edge technological advancements, insurtech companies are redefining how policies are underwritten, claims are processed, and customers are engaged. By harnessing data analytics, artificial intelligence, and blockchain, these companies offer tailored products at competitive rates, enhancing the overall client experience.
From a business vantage point, insurtech presents lucrative opportunities for growth and innovation, responding to the ever-evolving consumer demands for efficiency, transparency, and digital accessibility. The dynamism of insurtech challenges incumbent insurers to adapt or risk obsolescence.
28. Employee Recruitment Service
Employee Recruitment Service plays a crucial role in shaping the foundation and trajectory of companies. It is the conduit that connects businesses with their most valuable asset: human capital. In today’s competitive landscape, the right talent can be the determinant between industry leadership and mediocrity.
Recruitment services excel in understanding a company’s needs, culture, and long-term objectives, subsequently sourcing and vetting candidates that align with those prerequisites. The intricacies involved — from screening resumes to understanding industry-specific skill sets — demand expertise and discernment. As businesses pivot and evolve in response to market trends, so too does the importance of acquiring talent that can navigate these shifts.
29. Repairing Smartphone Business
In a world increasingly reliant on digital connectivity, the smartphone repair business, often overlooked in the vast tech industry, holds substantial importance. With nearly every individual owning a smartphone, the demand for maintenance and repair services has skyrocketed. Whether it’s a cracked screen, battery replacement, or software glitch, these repair services ensure that consumers remain connected without the need for immediate device replacement.
From a business perspective, this sector offers consistent revenue potential given the ubiquitous nature of smartphones and their susceptibility to wear and tear. The industry requires a blend of technical expertise and customer service, providing solutions in a timely and efficient manner.
30. Luxury Car Wash
Catering to high-end vehicles and discerning clientele, luxury car washing extends beyond mere cleaning to offer meticulous detailing and preservation of a car’s aesthetic and value. Given the substantial investment luxury car owners allocate to their vehicles, ensuring their pristine condition becomes paramount. This creates an ongoing demand for specialized car wash services that understand and cater to the unique needs of luxury automobiles.
From employing top-tier cleaning agents to utilizing advanced techniques that prevent wear, these establishments prioritize preserving the car’s integrity. Furthermore, with the rise in luxury car ownership, there is a parallel growth in the need for such bespoke services.
31. Marketing Videographer
As businesses seek to engage audiences in an increasingly visual-centric digital world, the ability to craft compelling video content becomes essential. A marketing videographer not only captures footage but shapes brand narratives, translating a company’s ethos and value propositions into visually arresting stories. The potency of video in driving user engagement, retention, and conversion is backed by a plethora of data, reinforcing its central role in contemporary marketing strategies. As businesses, regardless of size or sector, vie for consumer attention, the expertise of videographers who specialize in marketing becomes ever more sought after.
32. Actuary
Often unsung in broader business discussions, actuaries wield the power of mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events. Their work is foundational in pricing, underwriting, and determining the viability of insurance policies, ensuring companies remain solvent and can meet future obligations. Beyond insurance, actuaries play a role in pension plans, determining contributions required to secure future financial stability for retirees. As businesses and economies grow more complex, the demand for these professionals amplifies, given their ability to navigate uncertainty and quantify risk.
33. Bed Testing
The sleep industry, with its myriad of products promising rest and rejuvenation, harbors an unusual yet essential role: the bed tester. On the surface, it might seem mundane or even enviable, but the job goes beyond mere slumber. A bed tester’s responsibilities are rooted in assessing various facets of a bed—its durability, comfort, support, and how it might wear over time. These insights are invaluable to manufacturers keen on perfecting their products for a discerning market. After all, sleep quality is directly linked to overall health and well-being, and consumers are increasingly investing in premium bedding solutions.
34. Hydrology
Hydrologists specialize in the study of water’s distribution, movement, and properties. Their expertise is crucial for maintaining clean drinking water, managing wastewater, and predicting floods. As climate change affects water availability, their role gains paramount importance. They shape policy decisions, influence infrastructure, and guide industries like agriculture towards sustainable water use. While their tasks may seem arcane, their impact is vast, touching both ecosystems and economies.
35. Notary Public
A Notary Public stands as a guardian of trust in our documentation landscape. Every real estate transaction, testament validation, or crucial legal affidavit relies on this “boring” profession to ensure authenticity. The notary’s stamp is more than just ink; it’s a symbol of verified legitimacy in an era where trust can be elusive. From a business perspective, it’s a venture with relatively low overhead, stable demand, and the ability to dovetail with other professions, such as law or real estate. In essence, the Notary Public, while seemingly mundane, forms an essential thread in the fabric of our socioeconomic tapestry, silently bolstering the integrity of countless transactions.
36. Air Traffic Controlling
Air traffic controllers are truly the backbone of aviation. Their profession is marked by precision, high stakes, and immense responsibility. Every takeoff, landing and in-flight maneuver hinges on their decisions, making them crucial to global air travel’s safety and efficiency. From an industry standpoint, it’s not just a job; it’s a vital business service. The demand for their expertise is non-negotiable, ensuring job stability and a competitive remuneration structure. As air travel grows and airspace becomes more congested, the role of air traffic controllers becomes even more crucial.
Worth Knowing
The number of flights performed globally by the airline industry has increased steadily since the early 2000s and reached 38.9 million in 2019.
37. Technical Writing
Within the technology sector, the contributions of developers, engineers, and innovators are frequently emphasized. However, an equally integral role, often less heralded, is that of the technical writer. These professionals are tasked with translating complex technical concepts into clear, concise, and actionable documentation. Whether it’s software manuals, user guides, or product specifications, technical writers ensure that end-users and stakeholders can understand and utilize technological products and services effectively.
From a business perspective, their role becomes even more crucial as technology becomes increasingly intricate. Clear documentation not only aids in user adoption but also reduces support costs and streamlines user onboarding. Furthermore, as regulatory environments emphasize transparency and user understanding, the technical writer’s role gains prominence.
38. Industrial Hygiene Managing
Industrial Hygiene Managers bear the responsibility of ensuring that workplace environments are free from biological, chemical, and physical hazards. By systematically identifying and mitigating risks, they ensure that both the workforce and the processes remain safe and efficient. From a business perspective, their expertise not only aids in regulatory compliance but also in reducing potential liabilities and health-related absences, thereby ensuring uninterrupted productivity.
As industries grow and diversify, and as regulations become more stringent, the demand for knowledgeable Industrial Hygiene Managers increases. Their specialized skills in monitoring environmental factors, assessing risks, and recommending corrective measures make them indispensable in maintaining a safe, healthy, and compliant industrial environment. In essence, they are foundational to the sustainable and responsible operation of any industrial entity.
39. Biostatistics
In the intricate world of biological research and healthcare, the role of a biostatistician emerges as a linchpin for ensuring data accuracy and interpretation. Biostatisticians specialize in applying statistical theories and methodologies to biological data, ensuring valid conclusions and enhancing the credibility of research findings.
As the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors grow, the demand for precise data interpretation and validation becomes paramount. Biostatisticians aid in designing robust experiments, optimizing resource allocation, and deriving actionable insights from complex biological datasets. Their work plays a critical role in regulatory approvals, clinical trial evaluations, and public health decisions. As data continues to drive modern scientific endeavors, the role of biostatisticians becomes increasingly essential, positioning them as crucial contributors in the intersection of biology and statistics.
Boring Businesses That Make Money
In the realm of business, profitability doesn’t always align with flashiness. In this article, we delved into seemingly mundane industries and professions that, despite their lack of glamour, have proven to be highly lucrative. From hydrologists managing our precious water resources to the unexpected necessity of bed testers in the sleep industry, these businesses underline the fact that necessity, consistency, and expertise often trump novelty when it comes to generating consistent revenue.
By highlighting these unsung economic heroes, the article sheds light on the importance of recognizing and investing in sectors that might be overlooked due to their ‘boring’ facade but are foundational to our daily lives and the broader economy.