Neighborhood computer shop

Home users, students, gamers, and small businesses that want local advice and a place to walk in.

Margin on hardware and accessories, plus paid setup, data transfer and upgrade services. Service work often earns more per sale than the hardware itself.

• Good knowledge of PC hardware and operating systems
• Customer service and plain-English explaining
• Inventory buying and basic bookkeeping

• Check your city or county for a business license and zoning approval for retail use
• Register with your state for a sales tax permit, since you will likely be selling taxable goods
• General liability insurance, plus coverage for stock and theft
• Check lease terms carefully, as rent is a big fixed cost
• Big retailers and online stores compete hard on price, so lean on service and advice
• Check rules on handling customer data and disposing of old electronics in your state

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your lease, stock levels, fixtures and insurance. These are estimates. Rent is a big fixed cost, so read your lease terms carefully before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on your stock, location and how much setup and advice work you sell. These are estimates. Big retailers and online stores compete on price, so service and advice matter.

Check your city or county for a business license and zoning approval for retail use. Register with your state for a sales tax permit, and check insurance for liability, stock and theft, plus state rules on customer data and disposing of old electronics.