Open a local aquarium fish store

Hobbyists, families buying a first pet fish, schools, offices and people restocking their tanks.

Markup on livestock and equipment, plus repeat purchases of food, test kits and water supplies. Extras such as water testing or tank setup advice can bring customers back.

• Knowledge of fish care and water chemistry
• Customer service and patient advice
• Stock ordering and basic bookkeeping

• Check with your city or county for a business license, zoning and occupancy rules for a pet store
• Check your state for any pet dealer or livestock permits, and for rules on which fish species can be sold
• Register for a state sales tax permit and check what is taxable
• General liability and property insurance, and cover for stock loss if equipment fails or power goes out
• Livestock losses, high electricity and water costs, and a careful quarantine routine for new fish

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, the number of display tanks and how much livestock and equipment you stock. These are estimates. Electricity and water costs can also be high.

Monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on your location, range and customer base. Livestock losses and high electricity and water costs can reduce what you keep, so plan your costs carefully.

Check with your city or county for a business license, zoning and occupancy rules for a pet store. Check your state for pet dealer or livestock permits and restrictions on species. Register for a state sales tax permit, and review insurance for stock loss.