10+ Best & Profitable Cash Only Business Ideas [2023]

Looking to make money without having to accept cards? Check out our list of the 10+ best and most profitable cash-only business ideas for 2023. If you're looking for fun and creative ways to make a living, look no further. Find out what ideas work best for your goals.
Newfoundr

By Nick Cotter
Updated Feb 07, 2024

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Hey there, future entrepreneur! Are you ready to dive into the world of cash-only businesses? You're probably thinking, "Cash-only? In 2023? Really?" Yes, really! Even in the age of digital transactions, there's a thriving market for cash-only businesses, and we're here to guide you through it.

Imagine this - you're the boss, you're in control, and you're making a profit doing what you love. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, we're here to tell you that it's entirely possible. Whether you're looking for a side hustle or planning to quit your 9-5 job, these cash-only business ideas could be your ticket to financial freedom.

But enough of the chit-chat, let's get down to business (pun intended). We've compiled a list of over 10 profitable cash-only business ideas for you to explore in 2023. Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let's go!

Food Truck

A food truck is a mobile restaurant that can be found in urban areas or in designated spots on streets. It is an easy way for people to get access to delicious food without the hassle of having to visit a traditional sit-down eatery. A food truck can make a great business idea because:

  • It has low overhead costs compared to opening a restaurant.
  • You can tailor your menu to meet the needs of your customers.
  • Many customers opt for street food because it is convenient and delicious.
  • You can usually operate more hours than a traditional restaurant.
  • You have more flexible options for locations.
image of a Food Truck

Street Vendor

A Street Vendor is a business that sells goods or services on the street. It is usually a quick, convenient service to people in the local area and can be very profitable. There are several advantages to running a street vendor business:

  • Low overhead costs
  • Low risk to the business owner
  • Flexibility in where you locate your business
  • No restrictions on the types of goods or services you offer
  • Quick access to customers who are in need of immediate goods/services
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Examples of successful businesses:

The cash only business industry is a thriving and highly competitive sector of the economy. Below is a list of successful and established cash only businesses:

Car Detailing Service

Car detailing services provide a thorough cleaning of your vehicle's interior and exterior. This service can be customized to include protection treatments such as waxing and sealant, or more specialized services such as leather conditioning, paint correction, and more. Car detailing services can make a great business idea for a few different reasons:

  • High Demand: Most car owners are in need of regular car detailing services and there is always potential for growth in an expanding urban population.
  • Low Start-Up Cost: Depending on the type of services provided, there is often a low cost associated with starting a car detailing business.
  • Flexibility: Car detailing businesses can be run from home or from a physical location depending on the entrepreneur’s preference.
  • Repeat Business: Establishing customer loyalty can lead to repeat business for car detailers.

Laundromat

A Laundromat is a business that provides machines for customers to do their own washing and drying of clothing and other items. This type of business makes for a good investment because:

  • It requires minimal staffing
  • It is relatively low maintenance
  • The need for laundry services is high and constant
  • It can have multiple revenue sources, such as on-site vending machines and pay-per-load fees
  • It can be owned and operated as an independent business or franchised out to others wanting to start their own operations
  • The cost of setting up a laundromat is relatively low in comparison to other businesses

Flea Market Booth

A flea market booth is a great business idea because it provides entrepreneurs the opportunity to offer goods and services to customers for a minimal upfront cost. Flea markets give businesses the opportunity to reach new customers, sell goods at a discount and even try out a new idea or product line without investing too heavily in the venture. Here are some of the advantages of running a flea market booth:

  • Low startup costs
  • Ability to sell goods at discounted prices
  • Opportunity for entrepreneurs to test out new ideas
  • Chance to reach new customers
  • Flexibility in scheduling time to be present at the flea market

Barbershop

A Barbershop is a business that provides hair cutting and styling services. It is a great business idea for many reasons. Here are some of the advantages of opening a Barbershop:

  • The demand for hair care services will never diminish, so there is always potential to gain customers.
  • It requires relatively little start-up capital compared to other businesses.
  • It has the potential to generate consistent and steady income.
  • The overhead of running a Barbershop is usually low.
  • Barbershops often form strong bonds with their customers.

Grocery Delivery Service

Grocery delivery services provide convenience to busy consumers who don't have time to go shopping in person. Customers purchase groceries online and the groceries are then delivered directly to their door. A grocery delivery service can make a great business idea for entrepreneurs because:

  • It is a low-investment business with minimal overhead costs
  • It offers customers a convenient and cost-effective way to buy groceries
  • It gives businesses an opportunity to establish a loyal customer base
  • It provides convenience and eliminates the need for customers to go out shopping at traditional grocery stores

Bike Repair Shop

A Bike repair shop is a business that specializes in the maintenance and repair of bikes. Bike repair shops typically offer services such as tune-ups, chain lubrication, brake adjustment, tire replacement, and wheel truing. Additionally, bike repair shops often carry parts and accessories for sale. It is a great business idea for a variety of reasons:

  • It allows bike owners to keep their bicycles in good condition and functioning correctly.
  • Bikes are becoming increasingly popular as a leisure activity and mode of transportation.
  • The cost to set up a repair shop is relatively low compared to other business types.
  • It provides a steady income stream.
  • It can be scaled up easily to meet demand.
  • Customer loyalty is high due to the quality work that bike repair shops provide.

Landscaping Service

Landscaping services provide various outdoor services such as planting and maintaining trees, shrubs, and lawns; designing and constructing outdoor living areas; and providing outdoor lighting. An outdoor living area can increase the value of a home and provide an enjoyable area for entertaining guests. Starting a landscaping business is a great idea for those who are knowledgeable in horticulture, eager to work outdoors, and have an entrepreneurial spirit.

  • Knowledge of horticulture is essential
  • Enjoy working outdoors
  • Have an entrepreneurial spirit
  • Investment in equipment
  • Marketing to potential customers
  • Hiring additional personnel if needed

Dog Walking Service

A dog walking service is a service where individuals or companies offer to take people's dogs for walks either on a regular basis, or on an as-needed basis. This type of service can provide convenience and peace of mind for pet owners who may be too busy to walk their own dogs. It can also provide much needed exercise for pets that may not get enough from simply being in the house or backyard. There are many benefits to starting a dog walking business that make it a great business idea.

  • Low cost to start – you only need basic supplies such as a leash, collar, and dog poop bags
  • Flexible hours – you can choose when you take walks and how often
  • Very rewarding – you get to spend time with furry friends while helping out pet owners
  • You can market yourself easily – use social media, word of mouth, and other methods to gain customers
  • Good way to get exercise – it’s good for your health and for the health of your furry clients

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