Most home service businesses cost $2,000–$15,000 to start. A cleaning business can launch for $2,000–$5,000 if you already have a vehicle — covering equipment, insurance, licensing, and a 90-day marketing budget. Landscaping typically needs $8,000–$20,000 for equipment and a work vehicle. Moving companies require $15,000–$35,000. Core startup expenses for any trade: equipment ($800–$15,000), general liability insurance ($600–$2,000/year), licensing and permits ($200–$1,200), and first 90 days of marketing ($1,200–$6,500).
Starting a residential cleaning business costs $2,000–$5,000 if you already have a vehicle. That breaks down as: cleaning supplies and equipment $800–$2,800, general liability insurance ~$600/year, business licensing ~$200, and a first-90-day marketing budget of $1,200–$4,000. Adding a used work vehicle raises your total to $10,000–$15,000. By comparison, a cleaning franchise like Molly Maid or MaidPro costs $75,000–$150,000 in upfront fees — going independent saves you $70,000 or more.
You can start with very little — but not zero. Trades like cleaning, basic lawn mowing (with existing equipment), and handyman work can launch for under $1,500. The bare minimum: general liability insurance ($50–$150/month), a business license ($50–$500), and basic tools. Many operators win their first 2–3 clients through personal referrals and reinvest early revenue into equipment. SBA microloans (starting at $500) and 0% intro APR business credit cards are common ways to bridge the gap without draining savings.
Equipment depends on your trade. Cleaning: supplies, vacuum, mop system ($800–$2,800). Landscaping: mower, trimmer, blower, trailer ($3,000–$12,000). Handyman: full tool set and power tools ($2,000–$6,000). Power washing: commercial pressure washer and surface cleaner ($2,000–$8,000). Pool service: test kits, chemicals, skimmers, vacuum ($1,500–$5,000). Every trade also needs a reliable work vehicle, a smartphone for scheduling, business management software (~$50/month), and general liability insurance. Start lean and reinvest profits into professional-grade gear.
Budget $800–$3,200 for licensing and insurance in your first year. General liability insurance costs $600–$2,000/year depending on trade — cleaning and landscaping are lower; moving and pest control are higher. Business licensing and local permits run $200–$1,200 depending on your state and trade. Some trades like pest control require state certification costing an additional $500–$2,000. Ongoing, plan for $150–$400/month in insurance premiums once you're operational. Always verify your state's specific licensing requirements before launching.