Best Businesses to Start in Florida in 2024

If “starting your own business” is one of your New Year’s resolutions in 2024, you’re not alone! Each year, thousands of Americans across the country become entrepreneurs. Floridians are no exception. In fact, many people have already created profitable small businesses in Florida.

There are many business opportunities in Florida. If you’ve got a great idea, are not afraid of hard work, and have the drive to succeed, then the Sunshine State might be a great place to launch your small business dream! Let’s look closer at why this is a great place for small businesses and eight business ideas in Florida that are in demand.

Why is Florida great for small businesses?

Florida is home to 3 million small businesses, which make up 99.8% of businesses in the state, according to 2022 data from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy. The number of small businesses in the Sunshine State has been growing steadily since 2010 (with the exception of a downturn in 2020 caused by COVID-19).

But what makes Florida so attractive to small business owners?

• No state individual income tax – Unlike most states, Florida does not tax an individual’s income at the state level. It does charge a state sales tax and a corporate income tax.
• Streamlined permit process – Small businesses in Florida do not need a separate business license to operate in the state. Depending on what you do, you may only need a skilled or professional trade license from the appropriate licensing body.
• Growing population – Florida is one of the top destinations for people relocating from other parts of the country. Between April 2020 and April 2021, roughly 903 people moved to the state every day!

8 Great Business Ideas in Florida

You know you want the perks of owning your own business (like better hours and being the boss) but don’t quite know what you want to do. Not a problem! Here are eight businesses in demand in Florida to provide some inspiration, plus common risks that you might consider protecting yourself against with business insurance.

1. Real Estate Agent

All those people moving to the Sunshine State need homes—and you could be the one to help them find one! Real estate agents are essential to helping families and individuals find rental properties or homes to purchase. And real estate could be a profitable small business in Florida, too, as median home prices in the state continue to rise.

Consider the risks: You are not required to have Errors and Omissions/Professional Liability insurance in Florida. But, a policy could help you manage expensive negligence claims or lawsuits.

2. Moving Services

Here’s another way to capitalize on Florida’s population boom. Reliable movers can be hard to find, and you may quickly find your business in demand. Your services may also be useful for residents looking to downsize or trade busy city life for the quieter suburbs or rural areas.

Consider the risks: General Liability insurance could help protect you if you accidentally damage a customer’s belongings while packing boxes or during the move.

3. Landscaping & Gardening

Offering landscaping and gardening services could become a profitable small business in Florida. The state’s weather is perfect for growing lush gardens and green lawns. Many homeowners, landlords, and renters may prefer to leave the maintenance of their tropical wonderlands to someone else.

Consider the risks: If you rely on equipment like mowers, weed whackers, or leaf blowers to help you get the job done quickly, you might consider a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) that covers equipment breakdown.

4. Cleaning Services

Here’s another task that people are often willing to outsource. Cleaning services are in-demand with more than just time-poor homeowners and renters. There are thousands of hotels catering to Florida’s tourists, and smaller ones might hire independent contractors to help them keep their rooms in top shape. With the popularity of sites like Airbnb, homeowners may also hire cleaners to refresh the property between renters.

Consider the risks: Accidentally damaging a client’s property could result in expensive compensation bills. A General Liability policy helps cover these and other related costs.

5. Handyman

Maintaining a home is a lot of work, and many homeowner’s skills are not up to the task. Handymen help them take care of basic repairs and maintenance, as well as other odd jobs (think hanging photos or touching up paint).

Consider the risks: A BOP can help protect your tools, and General Liability policy covers accidental property damage and third-party injuries.

6. General Contractor/Construction

Construction is also booming thanks to Florida’s growing population. People are looking to remodel or upgrade their existing homes and build new ones. General contractors and small construction businesses can help fill this demand.

Consider the risks: Workers’ Compensation insurance is mandatory if you have employees (even seasonal or part-time ones).

7. Home Health Aide

Just over 21% of Florida’s population was aged over 65 years, according to the 2020 Census. The Sunshine State continues to be a popular destination for retirees, so this percentage will likely grow in the coming years. Providing home healthcare services could create business opportunities in Florida with this aging population, as well as those living with chronic illness, disabilities, or short-term injuries.

Consider the risks: You might decide to get Professional Liability insurance in Florida if you plan to work closely with patients and provide them with medical advice.

8. Consulting

The ideas above focus on Florida’s residents, but what about your fellow business owners? A consultant could help other entrepreneurs start their own businesses or work more efficiently. Consulting can be done in any industry where you have a strong background. You might provide financial advice, assist with disaster prep, or help businesses plan their marketing strategy. The possibilities are almost endless!

Consider the risks: Professional Liability insurance in Florida can protect consultants against claims or lawsuits resulting from the advice or recommendations they’ve provided to a client.

Starting your self-employed business in 2024

As you can see, the Sunshine State is full of opportunities for aspiring business owners. With several booming industries, you may be able to create a business in demand with residents or other small business owners.

And while you’re brainstorming your business ideas in Florida, consider getting business insurance to protect your livelihood. The coverage you choose could mean the difference between a long, successful career and closing your doors for good.

BizInsure makes it easy to buy General Liability, Workers’ Compensation, Business Owner’s Policies, and Professional Liability insurance in Florida. Get quotes, compare coverage, and buy in as little as 10 minutes. Start today!