Start an art school in a rented studio space

Parents of kids and teens, adult learners, schools or camps booking sessions, and families booking birthday parties.

Recurring monthly tuition or session fees, plus summer and holiday camps, party bookings and workshops. Materials can be included in the price.

• Strong art skills in one or more mediums
• Teaching and class management
• Basic marketing and scheduling
• Managing a lease and budget

• Lease commitments can be long, so check the terms carefully and consider a short lease or shared space first
• Check your city or county for a business license, zoning approval and any certificate of occupancy requirements
• General liability insurance, and workers' compensation insurance once you hire
• If you teach minors, check state and local rules on background checks and any childcare or education licensing that might apply
• Check whether your state requires sales tax registration for supplies or retail items you sell
• Income can be seasonal, since enrollment often dips in summer or around holidays

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your space, furniture, supplies and lease terms. These are estimates, so get local rent quotes and price out easels, tables and storage before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on class numbers, pricing and how many camps and parties you run. Enrollment often dips in summer or around holidays, so income can be seasonal.

Check your city or county for a business license, zoning approval and any certificate of occupancy requirements. Also look into general liability insurance, workers' compensation once you hire, and state and local rules on background checks if you teach minors.