5 Highest Paying Service Businesses No One’s Telling You About

Let’s get real for a sec. When it comes to service business, everyone is talking about plumbers, electricians, and HVAC techs raking in the big bucks.

But what if I told you there are service businesses out there generating serious income, such as $ 400,000 or more per year, that nobody is really talking about?

I know, right? You’re probably thinking, “Where do I sign up?”

Well, grab your coffee (or something stronger) because I’m about to spill the beans on five high-paying, low-competition service businesses that could change your life.

And, just FYI, I’m not some talking head who’s never run a business. I’ve seen these industries up close, and the numbers don’t lie.

If you’re ready to break free from the “same old” and want a real shot at financial freedom, keep reading.

You might just find your next million-dollar idea.

5 High-Income Service Business Ideas Everyone Overlooks

Explore five lucrative service-based business opportunities that fly under the radar but offer exceptional earning potential.

From septic tanks to in-demand mold remodeling services, discover industry secrets that can help you break into high-income professions.

Learn how to leverage your skills and expertise to achieve financial freedom through these little-known yet highly profitable service offerings.

1. Septic Tank Services: The Unsung Hero of Homeownership

Let’s start with something we all need but rarely talk about, and that is septic tanks.

Yep, I’m talking about the business that literally deals with what people flush. But before you scrunch up your nose, hear me out.

Why It’s a Goldmine

High Demand, Low Competition: Most septic service companies are booked months in advance.

Seriously, they don’t even answer their phones half the time because they’re swamped with work.

Recession-Proof: People will always need to, well, go. Regardless of the economy, political climate, or inflation, septic tanks require regular pumping.

Consistent Work: This isn’t a seasonal gig. You’ll be busy year-round, with steady cash flow.

Startup Costs & Equipment

• Septic Truck: Used ones run $50,000–$80,000. Newer models can be pricier, but you can start with a solid-used rig.
• Basic Tools: Hoses, gloves, and safety gear ($500–$1,000).
• Waste Disposal Fees: Around $1,000/day, but you’ll pass most of that cost on to your clients.

Earning Potential

• Per Job: $700–$900 per tank pumped.
• Annual Revenue: Pump five tanks a day, five days a week. That’s $3,500–$4,500 per week, or up to $1 million gross per year.
• Net Profit: After expenses, you’re looking at around $400,000 annually if you stay busy.

How to Stand Out

• Answer Your Phone: Sounds simple, but most competitors don’t. Be responsive, and you’ll win tons of business.
• Get Reviews: Build a referral network and encourage satisfied customers to share their positive experiences.
• Local SEO & Google Ads: Optimize your website for “septic services near me” and run targeted ads to increase visibility.

Scale Up

• Add Grease Trap Cleaning: Restaurants require this service regularly.
• Porta-Potty Rentals: More on this next.

Also Check: 6 Low Competition Service Businesses You Can Start Today

2. Porta-Potty Rentals: The Steady Cash Cow

Have you ever attended a festival, construction site, or outdoor event and noticed the line for the port-a-potty?

That’s money, my friend.

Why It’s a Winner

• Recurring Revenue: Once you land a contract, the money keeps coming in.
• Low Maintenance: After the initial investment, upkeep is minimal.
• Scalable: Add more units as you grow.

Startup Costs & Equipment

• Porta-Potties: Used units cost $250–$500 each. Start with at least 20.
• Delivery Trailer: $5,000–$10,000.
• Truck: Used, $20,000–$30,000.
• Cleaning Equipment: $1,000–$2,000.

Earning Potential

• Per Unit: $50–$300 per week per porta-potty.
• Annual Revenue: With 20 units rented at $200 each per week, that’s $4,000/week or over $200,000/year.
• Net Profit: After expenses, you’re looking at $120,000–$150,000 annually.

How to Get Clients

• Partner with Event Planners & Construction Companies: Secure long-term contracts.
• Offer Package Deals: Encourage repeat business.
• Expand Inventory: Add premium units (think AC, sinks) for higher-end events.

Pro Tip:

If you’re already in the septic services business, you can cross-sell porta-potty rentals and cleaning services. Double the income, half the hassle.

Read More: 6 BEST Small Business Ideas for Women in 2025 ($500/Day)

3. Basement Waterproofing: The Dryer of Wet Dreams

If you live in an area with basements (sorry, coastal friends), this is a goldmine. Homeowners dread water damage, and they’ll pay the top dollar to keep their basements dry.

Why It’s Lucrative

• High Demand: Water damage is a nightmare for homeowners.
• Low Competition: There are not many people who specialize in this niche.
• Big Ticket Jobs: The average project is $4,500.

Startup Costs & Equipment

• Equipment: Pumps, sealants, waterproofing membrane, basic tools ($5,000–$10,000).
• Truck or Van: $20,000–$30,000.
• Total Startup Cost: $30,000–$50,000.

Earning Potential

• Per Job: $4,500 average.
• Annual Revenue: Two jobs a week = $99,000/week (correction: actually, two jobs a week at $4,500 each is $9,000/week, or ~$450,000/year).
• Net Profit: After expenses, you’re looking at $300,000+ annually.

How to Market

• Build Relationships with Realtors & Home Inspectors: They’ll refer clients to you.
• Local SEO: Ensure you appear when people search for “basement waterproofing near me.”

Related: 10 Best One-Person Business Ideas to Start as a BEGINNER in 2025

4. Commercial Hood Cleaning: The Dirty Little Secret of Restaurants

Restaurants are required by law to clean their kitchen hoods on a regular basis. Most owners dislike doing it themselves, so they hire someone else to do it.

Why It’s a Hidden Gem

• Built-In Demand: Health departments mandate regular cleaning.
• Recurring Clients: Restaurants need this service every few months.
• High-Profit Margins: Jobs are quick but pay well.

Startup Costs & Equipment

• Hot Water Pressure Washer: $4,000+
• Degreasers, Tarps, Clamps, Shop Vac, Brooms: $2,000+
• Truck or Van: $20,000–$30,000
• Total Startup Cost: $25,000–$65,000

Earning Potential

• Per Job: $1,000–$3,000.
• Annual Revenue: One job a night, five nights a week = $5,000–$15,000/week, or $260,000–$780,000/year.
• Net Profit: $200,000–$500,000 annually.

How to Get Started

• Offer Free Inspections: Build trust with restaurant owners.
• Cold Call: Every restaurant has a hood. Knock on doors and introduce yourself.
• Get Thick Skin: You’ll hear “no” a lot, but persistence pays off.

Scale Up

• Add Pressure Washing Services: Use the same equipment for other jobs.
• Hire a Team: More jobs, more money.

Read More: 25 Exciting Small Businesses to Kick-Start Today

5. Mold Remediation: The Health Hazard Gold Rush

Mold is a serious health hazard, and people are willing to pay a significant amount to eliminate it, especially in humid areas or after water damage.

Why It’s a Home Run

• High-Ticket Jobs: Small jobs start at $2,000, while large jobs can exceed $50,000.
• Low Startup Costs: You can rent most equipment at first.
• Growing Demand: Increasing awareness of the health risks associated with mold.

Startup Costs & Equipment

• Moisture Meter, Mold Test Kit, Thermal Camera: $1,200–$1,500.
• Protective Gear, HEPA Vacuums, Air Scrubbers: $4,000–$6,000 (as you grow).
• Truck or Van: $20,000–$50,000.
• Total Startup Cost: $30,000–$60,000 (after a few jobs).

Earning Potential

• Per Job: $2,000–$50,000+.
• Annual Revenue: Two to three jobs a week at $10,000 each = over $1 million gross.
• Net Profit: $750,000–$1 million annually if you stay busy.

How to Market

• Local SEO: Rank high for “mold remediation near me.”
• Google Business Profile: Get reviews and build trust.
• Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the NFPA standards and regulations.

Bonus: Low-Cost, High-Potential Ideas

While we’re here, let’s sneak in a couple of bonus businesses that are cheap to start but have huge upsides.

Parking Lot Striping

• Why It’s Great: Every parking lot needs lines, fire lanes, and handicap spots.
• Startup Cost: Low—just a striping machine and a truck.
• Earning Potential: Steady work, especially if you partner with property managers.

Pressure Washing

• Why It’s Great: Everyone needs things cleaned—driveways, roofs, decks.
• Startup Cost: Low—just a pressure washer and a truck.
• Earning Potential: Six figures annually if you hustle.

How to Actually Make These Businesses Work

Okay, so you’re sold on the idea. But how do you actually make it happen? Here’s the real talk:

• Get the Right Equipment: Don’t skimp. Buy quality gear that lasts.
• Build a Website: Optimize for local search. Google is your best friend.
• Get Reviews: Happy customers = more business.
• Answer Your Phone: Be the company that actually picks up.
• Network: Partner with related businesses and build referral networks.
• Scale Up: Add services, hire a team, and expand your territory.

Why Nobody Talks About These Businesses

Ever wonder why you don’t hear about these businesses at your local networking event?

It’s simple: they’re not sexy. Nobody brags about pumping septic tanks or cleaning restaurant hoods.

But guess what? The people doing these jobs are laughing all the way to the bank.

Challenges to Overcome

No business is all sunshine and rainbows. If you’re diving into one of these high-paying service businesses, you’ll hit some bumps.

Here are the biggest ones and how they might trip you up:

High Startup Costs: Some of these businesses, particularly septic tank services and commercial hood cleaning require substantial upfront investments in equipment and vehicles.

That means you’ll need to hustle to pay off loans or save enough to get started.

Finding and Keeping Clients: Acquiring your first customers can be challenging. It’s even harder when established competitors have all the reviews and repeat business.

If you’re not proactive, you’ll be waiting by phone, hoping for a call.

Managing Cash Flow: Service businesses often deal with irregular income. You might have a killer month, then a slow one.

If you’re not careful, you’ll be sweating when bills come due.

Hiring and Retaining Skilled Workers: As you grow, you’ll need help. But finding reliable, skilled workers (especially in trades) is a nightmare.

Keeping them happy and motivated? That’s another challenge entirely.

Expert Tips for Success

Now that you know what’s coming, here’s how to not just survive but thrive:

Diversify Your Income Streams: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Offer add-on services, such as grease trap cleaning (if applicable) or premium porta-potties for events.

This helps smooth out cash flow and keeps you busy throughout the year.

Build a Strong Brand and Online Presence: Create a professional website, optimize it for local search (SEO), and ensure your Google Business Profile is top-notch.

Social media and online reviews are your best friends for attracting new clients.

Set Clear Boundaries and Contracts: Always use written contracts to ensure clarity and accountability. Define project scopes, deadlines, and payment terms upfront.

This protects you from scope creep and ensures you get paid on time.

Automate and Use Technology: Use software for scheduling, invoicing, and customer management.

Automation saves time, reduces errors, and enhances the professional image of your business.

Ask for Referrals and Reward Loyalty: Happy customers are your best marketers. Offer incentives for referrals and loyalty programs to encourage clients to return.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Starting any business takes work.

But if you’re looking for a service business with high demand, low competition, and serious earning potential, these five (plus the bonuses) are where it’s at.

You don’t need a fancy degree or a Silicon Valley network.

You just need hustle, a bit of grit, and the willingness to get your hands dirty (sometimes literally).

So, what’s stopping you?

If you’re ready to ditch the 9-to-5 and build something real, pick one of these niches and go for it.

And when you’re sipping margaritas on your private island, don’t forget who told you about it first 🙂