Do you live in a big city or a town? Do you want to start a successful business there? If YES, find here a list of the most profitable small business ideas that thrive well in big cities and metros these days.
Big cities have a high population density. Hence, the chances of selling your products or services are far better than in small towns or rural areas. Also, the big cities encapsulate an overwhelming number of different domains and application areas enhanced by technological advancements and their effective use in providing services to people.
Only you have to offer things that have good demand in those areas. And it is a well-known fact that when the number of sales increases you are going to make more money from that business.
Every product or service is not perfect for selling in big cities or towns. So, you must select the business that works effectively in the metro areas or tier Ι cities. Also, you must have a clear understanding of your own entrepreneurship ability, skill, and expertise.
Choosing the right business is the most critical step towards starting a business in a big city. The primary reason is that though there is a bigger demand, you are also supposed to have more competition.
55 Small Business Ideas for Big Cities
1. Food Truck Business
Food trucks are much more flexible regarding startup costs compared to traditional restaurants. It allows you to import unique cuisine to the main streets along which they run. These mobile restaurants can cater to diverse tastes while moving around high-traffic zones for maximum sales.
Why Start?
- The cost of starting a food truck is less than opening traditional restaurants and makes it easier to take the first step into the food industry.
- The urban dwellers are looking for quick, diverse, and affordable means of filling an empty stomach.
- Flexibility to operating high-traffic events, festivals, or parts of the city where traffic flows freely.
2. Co-Working Spaces
Co-working spaces are dedicated environments designed particularly for individual freelancers, new startups, and remote workers. These spaces give them a professional, flexible platform to meet, work, and share. In addition, co-working spaces also serve as hubs for networking and collaboration among entrepreneurs.
Why Start?
- Like most other metropolises, big cities will harbor an increasing influx of entrepreneurs and freelancers, the result being, of course, a steady demand for affordable workspaces.
- As if that isn’t enough, contemporary patterns of working remotely will continue to be observed today and the future, making it just inevitable for every co-working space to flourish.
- Consistent membership revenue is a great avenue to maintain cash flow; with additional services (for example, meeting rooms or events), profit can be enhanced.
3. Fitness Studio
Fitness studios can be for either yoga or pilates or even for a niche workout to attract the very health-conscious young urbanites. They could also include some trendy wellness and mindfulness-related exercise, combined with the mainstream hybrid offers.
Why Start?
- Health and fitness will always figure well in the minds of city dwellers, so the customer base is always there.
- Target the most popular niche of fitness studios by tenuring seniors or offering hybrid classes that combine one or two different fitness approaches.
- The fitness industry is recession-proof since it is business as usual for everyone. You can therefore think of making healthy investments at this time and graze your own pasture.
4. Event Planning
The demand for event planners is on the rise in almost all cities across the globe. Be it weddings, festivals, or corporate days, event planners are indispensable. You can tap this demand by launching an event planning company and offering specific services like themed events, green solutions, etc.
Why Start?
- Due to a shortage of time, most professionals nowadays prefer outsourcing event planning, creating steady demand.
- Events, celebrations and conferences happen year-round.
- A strong portfolio and client satisfaction can lead to repeat bookings and valuable referrals.
5. E-commerce Store
An e-commerce store allows an aspiring entrepreneur to start selling products directly online. It is meant for those busy people in the city. You can create a niche online store and offer customers anything from handmade products to tech gadgets.
Why Start?
- Tech-savvy consumers prefer the ease and comfort of an online shopping experience.
- Simplification of reaching a global audience is also done by sites such as Etsy and Amazon.
- Because of low overhead expenses, e-businesses become a cost-effective way to start a business.
6. Ride-Sharing Service
You can add an eco-friendly or limousine ride-sharing option to the urban commuter. This business can be niche-only such as a female-only ride-sharing solution, or it can go to carpooling solutions.
Why Start?
- Ride-sharing has become the usual way of travelling due to severe congestion and lack of parking spaces in cities.
- Specifics such as environment-friendly or niche ride service offerings can generally attract some client bases.
- Savings on advertising costs come with just signing up with already existing companies for a ride-sharing platform, as they guarantee widespread visibility.
7. Personal Shopper
Personal shoppers assist busy individuals with tasks like grocery shopping, gift selection, or wardrobe updates. They can also specialize in high-end fashion or sustainable shopping.
Why Start?
- Urban residents value convenience and personalized services, creating demand for personal shoppers.
- High-income clients are willing to pay for expertise in finding luxury or unique items.
- Building strong relationships with clients ensures loyalty and long-term success.
8. Coffee Shop
Coffee shops have remained with us through the olden times. All over the world, it is a place where people come to have casual meetings or even work from time to time. You can start a coffee sgop with a good concept, like a theme with special effects or drinks, and you will have them as a lifetime customer.
Why Start?
- Coffee consumption is known to increase continuously, especially in busy places where professional crowds hang out.
- A well-designed coffee shop can easily draw in regular visitors.
- Special things can also include special brews or themed interiors that can enjoy separation from your cafe’s competitors.
9. Pet Grooming
Pet grooming businesses accommodate urban pet owners who prioritize their pets above everything else. Mobile grooming services are exceptionally attractive to convenience customers.
Why Start?
- Pet care is a growing industry, with grooming being an essential service.
- Mobile grooming services offer convenience, making them particularly attractive to busy clients.
- Pet owners are willing to invest in professional grooming to ensure their pets’ health and hygiene.
10. Digital Marketing Agency
Digital marketing agencies help businesses establish and grow their online presence. You can start a digital marketing agency in a city and offer niche services like SEO, influencer campaigns, or e-commerce optimization can set you apart.
Why Start?
- Urban businesses often lack in-house marketing expertise, creating a high demand for digital agencies.
- Measurable results and scalable services make digital marketing a sustainable business model.
- With the ever-increasing importance of online visibility, this industry shows no signs of slowing down
11. Mobile Repair Shop
A mobile repair shop owner offers on-the-spot fixes for smartphones, tablets, and other devices. You can set up kiosks in busy city areas that can help serve tech-dependent customers.
Why Start?
- The increasing dependence on smartphones ensures a steady demand for repair services.
- People in cities need quick, reliable repairs to minimize device downtime.
- Offering services like battery replacements or screen repairs can lead to increased profit.
12. Food Delivery Service
Small delivery companies bring food directly from local restaurants to people’s houses. Niche options can make your business unique, like distributing healthy eating products or gourmet catering.
Why Start?
- Living in cities puts food deliveries into staple foods for dwellers.
- Sourcing restaurants with different kinds will allow you to cater to various customers.
- This has already become an app and online platform business, meaning fewer bricks and walls.
13. Real Estate Agency
Real estate agencies service the link between buyers, sellers, and renters in urban markets. A specialization in niche markets such as luxury properties or coworking spaces will give an edge.
Why Start?
- The demand is ever-growing in cities across the globe
- Deals transacted in high-value properties usually yield a handsome commission.
- A strong reputation localized will guarantee you survive in the most competitive areas for a while.
14. Cleaning Services
Cleaning agencies have seen a great growth in demand in the last few years within big cities. The demand for professional cleaning services is on the rise in homes and small offices and large offices.
Why Start?
- With a fast-paced urban lifestyle, the demand for cleaning services increases tremendously.
- Contracts are recurring for regular cleanings and therefore assure income streams.
- Expansion into the commercial cleaning sector can be an extension of growth for your business.
15. Tutoring Services
Tutoring services either provide individual or group lessons to students on subjects from academic studies to test preparation. One can reach customers beyond the city limits by including virtual options for tutoring.
Why Start?
- City dwellers invest heavily in quality education for their children.
- High-demand, difficult subjects, such as STEM, are of great demand for special tutoring
- Presence of many online tutoring platforms
13. Real Estate Agency
Real estate agencies connect buyers, sellers, and renters in urban markets. Specializing in niche properties like luxury homes or coworking spaces can provide a competitive edge.
Why Start?
- Big cities experience consistent real estate activity, ensuring steady demand.
- High-value property deals can lead to substantial commissions.
- Building a strong local reputation ensures long-term success in the competitive market.
14. Cleaning Services
The demand for cleaning agencies has grown in big cities in the last few years. From households, and small offices to big offices, customers are in plenty. Everyone is looking for affordable professionally equipped cleaning personnel to do the job.
Why Start?
- The fast-paced urban lifestyle creates a high demand for cleaning services.
- Recurring contracts for regular cleanings provide a stable income stream.
- Expanding into commercial cleaning can further grow your business.
15. Tutoring Services
Tutoring services allow students to study academic subjects or even test materials on a one-to-one basis or group sessions in a subject of their choosing. One can also look for online tutoring platforms, which would extend the reach beyond one’s city.
Why Start?
- Parents are willing to spend on good quality education for their children.
- With private tuition in high-demand subjects like STEM, you’re likely to get a steady stream of clients.
- Online tutoring platforms could take you to a whole different place without incurring much upfront costs at all.
16. Photography Studio
The photography studio provides photo services to clients with special occasions, portraits, or business events. Niche specialization example includes product photography or family portraits; both have the potential to capture more audience.
Why Start?
- There is a big demand for professional photography services for city events and businesses.
- Digital marketing and social media trends have increased the need for high-quality visuals.
- Offering package deals or themed sessions can help attract a wider client base.
17. Laundry and Dry Cleaning Services
Laundry and dry cleaning service caters to busy individuals living in a big city, where laundry is almost an exclusive affair. You could even do the pickup and delivery laundry service to have that unique edge in the competition.
Why Start?
- Metro cities have great numbers that are full professionals who need these services.
- Environmentally sustainable cleaning processes are attracting a section of very environmentally conscious customers.
- Adding ironing, as well as petty repairs, increases customer retention.
18. Childcare Center
Child care centers in the city are a boon to children when their parents are at work because it becomes a safe, educational place to be in. You can set up a childcare center and introduce modern means of learning or extra-curricular activities to draw in more kids.
Why Start:
- Here, parents are searching for a safe and dependable child-care option because they are busy working.
- Your centre becomes distinct with services like after-school programs for children.
- The high emphasis on safety and quality care is sure to build a good name for your centre in the community.
19. Urban Gardening Service
Urban gardening services help city residents and businesses create green spaces. It can be rooftop gardens or vertical plant walls. These services also contribute to eco-friendly living.
Why Start?
- The rising popularity of sustainable living drives demand for gardening services.
- Rooftop gardens and indoor plants can enhance property value in urban settings.
- Corporate clients looking to boost workplace aesthetics are a lucrative market.
20. Travel Agency
Travel agencies help urban clients plan personalized trips, from luxury vacations to adventure tours. As a beginner, one can focus on niche travel experiences that can attract a dedicated customer base.
Why Start?
- Urban professionals often prefer curated travel plans for convenience and quality.
- Partnering with airlines and hotels ensures competitive pricing and exclusive deals.
- Organizing group tours or themed travel packages can attract diverse customer segments.
21. Recycling Business
A recycling business collects and processes recyclable materials like paper, plastics, or electronics. You can launch a recycling business and offer doorstep pickup services to make it convenient for urban residents.
Why Start?
- Growing environmental awareness encourages recycling efforts in cities.
- Partnering with local governments or businesses can provide steady contracts.
- Specialized recycling services, like e-waste, have significant growth potential.
22. Specialty Bakery
Specialty bakeries create customized baked goods, such as gluten-free, vegan, or themed cakes. You can start a bakery and offer online ordering and delivery to further expand your reach.
Why Start?
- Big cities have a growing demand for unique and personalized baked goods.
- Catering for events like birthdays and weddings ensures a steady income.
- Seasonal specialties, such as holiday treats, can boost sales year-round.
23. Language Coaching
Language coaching helps individuals and businesses improve their communication skills in foreign languages. you can scale up this coaching business by offering Online and in-person sessions.
Why Start?
- Globalization has increased the demand for multilingual professionals in cities.
- Corporate clients seeking language training for employees offer high-paying opportunities.
- Online platforms allow you to teach students from anywhere, maximizing reach.
24. Health and Wellness Coaching
Health and wellness coaching helps clients achieve personal fitness, mental health, or nutrition goals. Sessions can be conducted online or in person, based on clients’ preferences.
Why Start?
- Urban professionals often seek expert guidance to manage stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Tailoring services to specific niches like weight loss or stress management attracts a focused audience.
- Recurring sessions create steady income and long-term client relationships.
25. Pet Grooming Services
Pet grooming services cater to pet owners who want their animals to look and feel their best. Mobile pet grooming vans make it easy to offer door-to-door services.
Why Start?
- Urban areas often have a high population of pet owners who lack time for grooming.
- Providing additional services like pet daycare or training can increase revenue streams.
- Seasonal grooming packages for holidays or summer months can attract more customers.
26. Shoe Laundry
A shoe laundry business provides cleaning and restoration services for footwear. Specialized care for premium or sports shoes attracts a niche clientele.
Why Start?
- Urban professionals prioritize maintaining their expensive footwear.
- Expanding into repairs or customizations diversifies revenue streams.
- Offering pickup and delivery services enhances convenience and reach.
27. Car Rental Services
Car rental services cater to tourists, business travelers, and locals needing short-term vehicle access. Expanding into eco-friendly or luxury vehicles can tap into niche markets.
Why Start?
- Urban travelers often prefer the convenience of short-term rentals over owning cars.
- Partnering with ride-share or travel apps can increase visibility.
- Offering affordable and flexible rental plans attracts a broader audience.
28. Tech Repair Services
Tech repair services fix laptops, tablets, and other electronic devices. Including on-site services or quick turnaround times makes your business highly appealing.
Why Start?
- The reliance on technology ensures a steady demand for repairs.
- Urban professionals often seek fast and reliable repair services.
- Expanding to include accessories or refurbished devices boosts profitability.
29. Art Gallery
An art gallery showcases local or international artists, providing a platform for selling artwork. Adding workshops or events can create additional revenue streams.
Why Start?
- Big cities often have a vibrant art scene with art enthusiasts willing to invest.
- Collaborating with artists or hosting exhibitions builds community engagement.
- Offering affordable art pieces attracts a wider customer base.
30. Party Supply Rental
Party supply rental businesses provide decor, furniture, and equipment for events. Offering unique items like themed decorations or high-end equipment can set you apart.
Why Start?
- Urban residents and businesses frequently host events requiring party supplies.
- Repeat rentals from event planners ensure consistent business.
- Expanding to include delivery and setup services adds convenience for clients.
31. App Development Business
An app development business creates software solutions for businesses or consumers. Focusing on user-friendly and innovative apps ensures a strong market presence.
Why Start?
- Big cities are home to startups and enterprises needing custom apps.
- Offering ongoing support or updates creates a steady revenue stream.
- A portfolio of successful apps helps attract high-value clients.
32. Bike Rental Services
Bike rental services offer an eco-friendly transportation option in cities. Including electric bikes or guided tours can attract more customers.
Why Start?
- Urban areas with high traffic benefit from alternative transport solutions.
- Collaborating with tourism boards or local events can increase visibility.
- Offering subscription plans or memberships creates a loyal customer base.
33. Music Lessons Studio
Music lesson studios teach individuals or groups instruments like piano, guitar, or drums. Online lessons or recording sessions can expand your offerings.
Why Start?
- Urban families often invest in extracurricular activities for their children.
- Group classes and workshops maximize your time and earnings.
- Partnering with schools or community centers ensures steady enrollment.
34. Eco-Friendly Products Store
An eco-friendly products store sells reusable, biodegradable, or sustainable goods. Highlighting local or handcrafted items adds a unique touch.
Why Start?
- Environmental awareness drives demand for sustainable living solutions.
- Partnering with local artisans or eco-conscious brands builds trust.
- Hosting workshops or events educates customers and fosters loyalty.
35. Mobile Car Wash
A mobile car wash offers convenient on-site cleaning services for busy city residents. Eco-friendly products or subscription plans can enhance your offering.
Why Start?
- Urban professionals value time-saving services like on-demand car cleaning.
- Offering premium detailing packages attracts high-value customers.
- Operating without a fixed location reduces overhead costs.
36. Virtual Assistant Services
Virtual assistant services help businesses with administrative tasks remotely. Specializing in industries like e-commerce or real estate can improve marketability.
Why Start?
- Urban businesses and professionals increasingly outsource administrative tasks.
- Flexible working hours and remote setup minimize startup costs.
- Building long-term client relationships ensures a steady income.
37. Social Media Management
Social media management helps businesses grow their online presence by handling accounts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Offering analytics and strategy consultations can set your services apart.
Why Start?
- Big city businesses need effective online presence to reach their target audience.
- Offering packages for content creation and ads increases profitability.
- Partnering with influencers or niche markets adds value to your service.
38. Home Renovation Services
Home renovation services upgrade and remodel spaces to meet modern needs and aesthetics. Specializing in kitchen, bathroom, or eco-friendly renovations can attract specific clientele.
Why Start?
- Urban homeowners often invest in improving their living spaces for value and comfort.
- Partnering with interior designers and contractors expands your network.
- Customizing services for modern or sustainable designs sets you apart.
39. Babysitting or Nanny Services
Babysitting or nanny services provide reliable childcare solutions for busy parents. Building trust through background checks and certifications boosts your reputation.
Why Start?
- Urban families often rely on childcare services to balance work and family.
- Offering after-school care or weekend services caters to diverse needs.
- Expanding into daycare centers ensures long-term growth opportunities.
40. Photography Studio
A photography studio offers professional photo services for events, portraits, or commercial projects. Incorporating high-end equipment and editing services enhances customer satisfaction.
Why Start?
- Urban businesses and individuals frequently seek quality photography services.
- Specialized niches like products or wedding photography generate consistent demand.
- Expanding into videography or photo editing services adds value to your offerings.
41. Personal Chef Services
Personal chef services prepare customized meals for clients in their homes. Focusing on dietary preferences like vegan, gluten-free, or keto diets can attract niche markets.
Why Start?
- Urban professionals appreciate personalized meal solutions for convenience and health.
- Providing meal prep packages or hosting cooking classes diversifies income streams.
- Catering to events or parties can increase exposure and clientele.
42. Real Estate Brokerage
A real estate brokerage connects buyers and sellers in the housing market. Specializing in high-demand urban neighborhoods boosts your credibility.
Why Start?
- Big cities always have a dynamic real estate market with a high potential for profits.
- Offering virtual tours and online consultations improves customer convenience.
- Building relationships with developers ensures exclusive property listings.
43. Tutoring Services
Tutoring services provide academic support to students of all levels. Offering online and in-person options makes your services accessible to a wider audience.
Why Start?
- Urban families often invest in supplementary education to boost academic success.
- Specialized tutoring in test prep or coding enhances your appeal.
- Collaborating with schools ensures consistent demand and visibility.
44. Subscription Box Service
A subscription box service delivers curated items like beauty products, snacks, or hobby supplies to customers’ doors. Creating personalized themes can attract loyal subscribers.
Why Start?
- Urban residents enjoy convenience and novelty in curated products.
- Niche markets like eco-friendly or luxury items offer high-profit margins.
- Partnering with local businesses for unique offerings builds brand credibility.
45. Luxury Spa Services
Luxury spa services provide relaxation and wellness treatments to city residents. Offering mobile spa services or membership packages adds convenience.
Why Start?
- Urban professionals seek ways to unwind from their hectic routines.
- Including premium treatments like aromatherapy or hot stone massages increases appeal.
- Expanding into wellness retreats or workshops creates growth opportunities.
46. Amusement Park
An amusement park offers thrilling rides, games, and entertainment for families and individuals. Adding unique themes and attractions creates a distinctive identity.
Why Start?
- Big cities attract large crowds looking for fun and recreation.
- Offering seasonal events and discounts ensures steady foot traffic.
- Collaborating with schools and companies for group bookings boosts revenue.
47. Eco-Friendly Products Store
An eco-friendly products store sells sustainable goods like reusable bags, biodegradable utensils, and organic toiletries. Online and offline presence expands your reach.
Why Start?
- Urban residents are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their purchases.
- Partnering with local artisans or brands enhances your product range.
- Providing workshops on sustainable living creates a community-focused brand.
48. Electric Scooter Rental
Electric scooter rentals offer affordable and eco-friendly transportation in congested urban areas. Strategic placement at public transport hubs maximizes usage.
Why Start?
- Urban residents look for convenient and sustainable commuting options.
- Partnering with businesses or events ensures regular bookings.
- Expanding into electric bikes diversifies your offerings.
49. Gaming Lounge
A gaming lounge offers state-of-the-art gaming setups for e-sports enthusiasts and casual gamers. Adding VR gaming enhances the experience.
Why Start?
- Urban youth are avid gamers, making gaming lounges a lucrative venture.
- Hosting tournaments or memberships creates additional revenue streams.
- Collaborating with gaming brands increases exposure and credibility.
50. Tattoo Parlor
Tattoo parlors provide custom designs, body art, and piercings. Partnering with skilled artists ensures unique, high-quality services.
Why Start?
- Urban residents often explore tattoos as a form of self-expression.
- Expanding into tattoo removal or aftercare products increases earnings.
- Hosting flash sale events attracts more customers and builds community.
51. Antique and Vintage Store
Antique and vintage stores sell curated, unique items that attract to collectors and design enthusiasts. Other than opening a physcal storefront, consider launching an online shop to add revenue stream.
Why Start?
- Urban customers often look for one-of-a-kind items for their homes.
- Offering restoration services attracts collectors seeking customized solutions.
- Hosting auctions or themed sales events boosts visibility.
52. Urban Gardening Services
You can open an urban gardening services and help residents create green spaces in small areas like balconies or rooftops. Also, consider add value by offering workshops.
Why Start?
- Big city dwellers seek eco-friendly solutions to improve their living spaces.
- Providing sustainable gardening solutions attracts environmentally conscious clients.
- Partnering with property developers for rooftop gardens increases business opportunities.
53. Private Security Services
Private security services provide trained personnel to protect properties and individuals. Specializing in high-profile or corporate clients boosts credibility.
Why Start?
- Urban businesses and residents prioritize safety and security.
- Offering advanced surveillance solutions increases your service appeal.
- Expanding into event security ensures diverse income streams.
54. Personal Styling Services
Personal styling services help clients enhance their wardrobe and confidence. If you have the expertize, start a personal styling service company and also offer virtual consultations to widen your reach.
Why Start?
- Urban professionals often seek style guidance to improve their image.
- Collaborating with boutiques and designers enhances service offerings.
- Expanding into wardrobe organization creates additional income opportunities.
55. Nightclub
A nightclub offers music, dance, and drinks in a vibrant, social setting. Unique themes and live performances enhance its appeal.
Why Start?
- Big cities are hotspots for nightlife, ensuring a consistent crowd.
- Hosting themed nights or celebrity performances boosts visibility.
- Partnering with local influencers helps build a strong brand presence.
Suggested Read: Business Ideas for College Towns
FAQs on Starting a Business in Big Cities
What are the key factors to consider before starting a business in a big city?
Before starting a business in a big city, consider factors like market demand, target audience, competition, location, operational costs, and scalability potential. Research the local market thoroughly to identify opportunities and gaps.
How can I choose the best business idea for a big city?
Choose a business idea that aligns with your skills, interests, and budget. Evaluate the demand for the service or product in the city, analyze competitors, and assess the profitability and growth potential.
What are the challenges of starting a business in a big city?
Common challenges include high operational costs, intense competition, regulatory hurdles, and finding the right location. Managing customer expectations and hiring skilled staff can also be challenging.
Do I need a business license to operate in a big city?
Yes, most businesses require licenses and permits to operate legally. The specific licenses depend on the type of business and the city’s regulations. Check with local authorities for compliance requirements.
Are franchises a good option for starting a business in a big city?
Franchises can be a great option as they offer established brand recognition, a proven business model, and support from the franchisor. However, consider the initial franchise fee and ongoing royalties before committing.
What are some profitable industries to explore in big cities?
Industries like food and beverage, entertainment, fitness, education, technology, and personal services are often profitable in big cities due to high demand and diverse consumer needs.
Editorial Team at 99BusinessIdeas is a team of experts led by Rupak Chakrabarty with over 25 years of experience in starting and running small businesses. Started in 2010, 99BusinessIdeas is now one of the largest free small business resources in the industry.