8 Best Small Businesses To Start in Florida in 2024

If you’re looking to hit it big in business in Florida, you’ve come to the right place. The Sunshine State’s diverse economy and booming population make it a prime spot for entrepreneurs. 

GOBankingRates spoke with experts to bring you the top small-business ideas that are set to thrive in Florida’s unique market. From beachside ventures to tech-savvy startups, here are some of the best small businesses to consider launching in Florida in 2024.

With Florida’s tourism industry hotter than a summer day in Miami, vacation rental management is a golden opportunity.

Cristy Stewart-Harfmnan, digital marketing expert and founder of Happy Family Blog, said “Florida’s thriving tourism industry is perfect for a vacation rental management business. Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO make it easier for property owners to rent homes, especially in cities like Miami, Orlando and Tampa.” 

By offering full-service management — handling everything from bookings to maintenance — you can tap into a steady income stream, particularly from absentee owners who need someone to manage their Florida properties.

In today’s digital age, every business needs an online presence, and Florida is no exception.

“With small businesses in Florida rapidly growing, the demand for digital marketing services is increasing,” Stewart-Harfmann said.

Whether it’s SEO, social media management, paid ads or email marketing, local businesses need help reaching customers online. 

Pro tip: Target Florida’s booming sectors like tourism, hospitality and real estate to carve out your niche in the digital marketing world.

Florida’s extensive coastline isn’t just for postcard views — it’s a business opportunity waiting to be seized.

“A business offering boat tours, jet ski rentals or fishing charters would thrive in tourist-heavy areas like the Keys or Miami,” Stewart-Harfmann said.

Combine this with a strong online presence, and you’ll be riding the waves of success in no time.

Who says you need a physical storefront to make it big in Florida? Stewart-Harfmann pointed out the growing demand for digital products, especially among Florida’s diverse population of retirees, professionals and entrepreneurs. Consider creating and selling online courses, e-books, or templates focused on Florida-specific topics like how to invest in Florida real estate or starting a boating business in Florida.

Florida’s reputation as a retirement haven makes it a prime market for health and wellness services.

Daniel Rubenstein, CEO and founder of Reset IV, said, “Florida has a lot of potential for small businesses in the health and wellness sector. There is so much more, including a large retiree population that prioritizes active aging.”

From personal training and nutrition counseling to wellness retreats, the opportunities are endless.

“I see there being room for small group fitness ventures, nutrition services and even wellness retreats,” Rubenstein added.

With Florida’s large population of homeowners and seasonal residents, there’s always demand for home services.

Stewart-Harfmann suggested, “Marketing these services through digital platforms, social media and online reviews can help you tap into this market and attract customers looking for reliable service providers.”

Whether it’s cleaning, landscaping or handyman services, there’s room for growth in this sector.

Rubenstein offered a unique insight: “Maybe something like senior-focused meal prep and delivery could be excellent in an area where the retiree population is higher.”

This idea combines the growing trend of meal delivery services with Florida’s large senior population, creating a niche market with plenty of potential.

In Florida, bugs are a year-round issue.

Josh Minturn, vice president of franchise development at Mosquito Squad, explained, “While pest control may be a seasonal job in parts of the country, in Florida these services are in demand year-round. Some mosquitoes are active all 12 months due to the higher temperatures and humidity felt throughout the state.

“That’s why the pest control industry is a viable field to invest in Florida,” Minturn added.

Whether you start your own business or invest in a franchise like Mosquito Squad, pest control services are always in demand in the Sunshine State.