12 Boring Businesses That Make Serious Cash
When people think about starting a business, their minds tend to go straight towards doing something that's never been done before or coming up with the next big tech gadget. But, in reality, many of the most lucrative businesses are actually the so-called “boring” businesses – those providing everyday services we can't live without.
Whether it’s managing a parking lot, running a laundromat, or offering bookkeeping services, these businesses may not be flashy, but they’re built to last. Plus, some of the best boring businesses that make money can turn into incredible passive income streams if you play your cards right.
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The Best Boring Businesses That Make Money
1. Vending Machine Business
The vending machine business is a prime example of how a simple, low-maintenance business idea can generate impressive cash flow.
With relatively low startup costs (often as low as $2,000-$3,000 for a new machine, but you can get them even cheaper if you buy one used), you can begin earning revenue in just a few weeks.
The key to success in this business is scaling. Each additional machine on your route adds to your income, turning this boring business into a source of autopilot cash. All you have to do is keep the machines stocked and in working order. But you can outsource this job as well if you're too busy.
On average, vending machines generate about $300 per machine, per month according to industry data. But, this can vary a lot depending on where you set them up.
Public places with lots of foot traffic, like colleges, office buildings, hospitals, or apartment complexes, are your best bet. However, keep in mind that some company owners might charge a flat fee or portion of your vending machine sales for setting up shop on their property, so be sure to factor this into your costs.
2. Laundromats
Laundromats may not seem glamorous, but they serve a critical need: clean clothes. About 30% of American households – mostly renters – rely on laundromats, making them one of the most reliable boring businesses that make money and aren't not going anywhere anytime soon.
With startup costs around $114,000 – $450,000, it’s a hefty investment, but it's one that can truly pay off. Laundromats can pull in an average annual revenue of over $100,000 with profit margins of over 20% according to industry data.
The recurring nature of this business is a big plus; people will always need clean clothes, and the machines do most of the work. While maintenance and customer service are key, once established, this can be a hands-off business for those who want a stable income source.
This is also a business that can run itself if you hire attendants and outsource machine repairs.
3. Car Wash
Car washes are another boring business idea that consistently brings in the dough. This business is great for car enthusiasts or entrepreneurs who love optimizing systems for efficiency.
Startup costs are significant, ranging from approximately $50,000 for a basic mobile car wash setup to several million dollars for a full-service, automated facility. But, you get what you put into it: adding features like cashless payments or leasing out extra space can drastically boost income.
The average in-bay automatic car wash earns about $139,000 per year, while full service car washes can earn over $600,000 annually.
4. Self-Storage Facility
Self-storage is one of the most passive income businesses you can find. Unless you already own commercial land, most of the initial investment will be land acquisition and construction costs, which range from around $1.5-$2 million. With the right technology, such as adding automated locks or keypads, this business can turn into a near completely hands-off operation.
With average annual revenues around $184,500 and impressive profit margins of 41%, a self-storage facility is the perfect boring business idea if you're someone who wants a business that can be managed remotely, leaving you plenty of time to focus on other ventures or side hustles.
5. ATMs
Another passive boring business idea are ATMs. For a startup cost of around $2,500 per machine, you can start making money from transaction fees almost immediately.
With each transaction earning you $2 to $3, ATMs can generate significant income – especially in strategic, high-demand locations, like busy shopping areas or entertainment districts (bars and casinos are a big one here).
Like vending machines, scaling is key here. On average, a single ATM can earn you about $180-$600 per month. To really bring in the dough, you'll need to scale your business up with multiple ATMs in strategically-placed locations.
While the income potential is modest compared to other businesses, this boring business system is perfect for entrepreneurs who want a passive revenue stream with relatively low start-up costs.
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6. Local Service-Based Businesses
Whether it’s landscaping, cleaning, plumbing, or HVAC services, local service-based businesses are the backbone of any community. These businesses may be boring, but the demand for these services is constant, ensuring a steady flow of work and revenue year-round.
Startup costs can vary depending on the service, but they typically start at a few thousand dollars for equipment and advertising. Margins can be very healthy, especially for businesses like plumbing or HVAC, where specialized skills allow you to charge premium rates.
Once established, these boring businesses that make money can be outsourced, allowing owners to take a step back while still earning steady revenue.
You can also use gig apps to test out your idea and gain experience before launching a complete business. Platforms like Taskrabbit are a prime example. You can also look for local cash gigs on websites like Craigslist to learn the ropes while making some cash.
7. Rental Properties
Rental properties are a great boring business idea for those looking to build wealth with minimal day-to-day involvement. Whether you choose long-term rentals or short-term Airbnb properties, owning real estate allows you to benefit from both immediate income and long-term property appreciation.
With startup costs varying depending on location, the initial investment can be expensive, but the potential for ongoing revenue is high. As long as you can keep them occupied, rental properties bring in steady cash flow, with average annual revenue of around $16,166 per property, and ROI around 10.6%.
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8. Bookkeeping
Bookkeeping might sound, well, boring and tedious, but it’s an essential service for millions of small businesses and individuals. It's a dependable business choice, since people and companies will always need help managing their finances. And, it can be extremely lucrative, too.
The average self-employed bookkeeper charges an average hourly rate of $50-$100, or $104,000-$208,000 per year. This business does require specialized knowledge, especially in tax laws or financial reporting, but it can easily be managed from home or even as a part-time gig. Plus, startup costs are minimal – as low as $2,600 (mainly for software, certifications, and marketing.)
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9. Dry Cleaning
While not the most cutting-edge business, dry cleaners still provide a valuable service for professionals and special occasions. Average annual revenue is around $350,000, with startup costs around $100,000-$500,000 according to industry data.
Keep in mind that dry cleaning is a shrinking industry due to more people working from home, but that also means there are deals to be found. You can often buy an existing dry cleaning business for a fraction of its actual value, making it a solid investment opportunity.
Just be mindful of the decline in demand and consider ways to modernize or add additional services to boost profitability.
10. Parking Lots
Owning a parking lot is a great option for anyone looking for a low-effort boring business that pretty much takes care of itself. With self-pay stations or parking meters and technology, many parking lot businesses can be automated, reducing the need for on-site staff and allowing you to manage multiple locations with ease.
With startup costs starting at around $50,000, primarily for land acquisition and zoning, and average profit margins of 20-25%, parking lots offer huge upside potential with minimal ongoing maintenance.
Whether charging hourly, daily, or monthly rates, the key to success in this business is operating in a high-traffic area. With the right location, a parking lot business can earn you about $73,000 annually per lot according to data from Neighbor.
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11. Waste & Septic Tank Businesses
A waste and septic tank business may not be your first choice, but it’s essential, especially in rural areas where homes rely on septic tanks. Startup costs can range from $100,000 to $150,000. This is mostly for equipment like trucks and safety gear, but demand is consistent. Plus, competition is usually low.
If you're not afraid of getting your hands dirty, this boring business idea can be surprisingly lucrative, with profit margins ranging from 10% to 20%. Septic tank services generate recurring revenue through regular maintenance contracts, which typically earn you $400 to $500 per job. Annually, this accumulates to about $150,000 per year.
12. Junk Removal
Junk removal is another “dirty” boring business idea with solid demand and room for growth. While the business requires some physical labor, it offers recurring revenue through regular contracts with businesses or property managers.
Startup costs hover around $7,550 to $16,100 for your first truck down payment and equipment. Over time, you can scale your business up by adding more trucks and employees. Once you're making a solid profit, you can even outsource the manual side of the job entirely. On average, full-scale junk removal businesses make about $1.4 million per year in revenue according to industry data.
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Factors To Consider Before Starting Or Buying A Boring Business
Now that I've covered some popular boring businesses that make money, here are some factors you should consider before starting your own or purchasing an existing one:
- Local Demand: The best boring businesses are so successful because they offer services people rely on regularly, like cleaning, plumbing, or waste removal. Even during economic downturns, these businesses tend to stay in demand, giving them built-in stability. But, it’s important to check if your area actually needs the service before you start or buy a boring business. For instance, a laundromat might do great in a busy college town but struggle in a rural area where most people are homeowners who own washing machines.
- Level Of Involvement: Not all boring businesses run themselves. Some, like parking lots or ATMs, are almost hands-off once they’re set up, while others, like septic tank cleaning or bookkeeping, require you to get your hands dirty (literally or figuratively.)
- Competition: You need to know who your competitors are, how they’re pricing their services, and what gaps might exist that you can fill. Boring businesses often succeed when they serve a niche or offer better service in areas that others are overlooking. Understanding the local market can help you carve out your own space and avoid a crowded field.
- Scalability: Some boring businesses are great for steady, local income, while others can grow into something much bigger down the road. Think about whether the business you’re considering has room to expand.
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Final Thoughts
In a world obsessed with the next big thing, it's easy to overlook the opportunities right under our noses: the boring businesses. However, these businesses often offer rewards that trendy startups can't – like stability, predictability, and most importantly, consistent strong returns. They may not make headlines, but boring businesses like parking lots, cleaning services, and rental properties quietly rake in recurring – and often lucrative – profits.
The beauty of these boring businesses is that they serve everyday needs, making them recession-resistant and less likely to fail. Another advantage is that they often fly under the radar, not competing for attention in the same way hip startups are. This makes them undervalued and less competitive to buy into, opening the door to smart investors who are willing to see beyond the surface and recognize the long-term potential.
So, if you're looking to invest in a business that will be profitable in the long-term, you might want to start or buy a boring business. In the end, it's not about chasing the most exciting idea; it's about finding something that works. And who knows? One of these “boring” ventures could very well turn into a gold mine or let you make money while you sleep because you outsource everything.
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