5 Recession-Proof Businesses You Can Start That Always Make Money — Even in Hard Times

Lelicia D
May 26
3 min read

If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that economic uncertainty is real—but so is opportunity. As a CPA and small business strategist, I’ve seen firsthand which business models thrive in a downturn. While some industries slow to a halt, others continue to generate revenue, grow their client base, and even scale in the middle of a recession.

If you're looking to start a business that’s sustainable and financially smart, these five recession-proof ventures deserve a spot at the top of your list. Let's dive in—and I’ll show you exactly how you can make money with each one.

1. Healthcare Staffing

Why It’s Recession-Proof: Healthcare doesn't stop. In fact, public health crises (like the pandemic) actually increase demand for qualified medical professionals. Hospitals, clinics, assisted living facilities, and private practices all need consistent staffing help—especially with nurses, aides, therapists, and medical assistants.

How to Make Money:

Start a healthcare staffing agency that contracts professionals to facilities on a per diem or short-term basis.
Charge a placement or hourly fee for every professional you staff (you can net $10–$25+/hr per person staffed).
Specialize in high-demand niches (nursing homes, urgent care, mental health facilities) for more reliable contracts.
Offer both temporary staffing and temp-to-hire options for recurring income.

Pro Tip from a CPA: Keep tight records for payroll, compliance, and 1099 vs W-2 classification—this model can scale quickly, so structure your back office right from the beginning.

2. IT & Cybersecurity Services

Why It’s Recession-Proof: Cyber threats don’t take breaks—and when businesses tighten budgets, they become even more vulnerable. Small businesses especially need cybersecurity support but often lack in-house IT teams. That’s where your services come in.

How to Make Money:

Offer monthly tech support retainers to small businesses (think $500–$3,000/month based on complexity).
Provide network security audits, software updates, firewall configurations, and data backups.
Add high-margin services like penetration testing and remote troubleshooting.
Create passive income streams with affiliate links to recommended software and tools.

Pro Tip from a CPA: Bundle your services into tiered packages to increase your average monthly recurring revenue (MRR). Include cost-saving features businesses value (like reducing system downtime).

3. Social Media Management

Why It’s Recession-Proof: Even in a downturn, businesses can’t afford to disappear online. If anything, they need more help standing out and building engagement on social media when consumer spending slows.

How to Make Money:

Offer monthly management packages (e.g., 12 posts + analytics + engagement starting at $500–$1,500/month).
Specialize in platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest) and niche down by industry (beauty, food trucks, coaches).
Upsell content creation services like reels, Canva templates, captions, and strategy guides.
Sell digital products like social media calendars, hashtag banks, or editable post templates.

Pro Tip from a CPA: Track time spent vs income per client to ensure you’re not undercharging for high-effort clients. Automation tools like Later or Metricool can improve your margins.

4. Pet Care Services

Why It’s Recession-Proof: Pet parents don’t skimp on their fur babies—even when times are tight. Services like grooming, walking, and sitting are often viewed as essential, especially by busy professionals or elderly pet owners.

How to Make Money:

Start with dog walking and pet sitting in your neighborhood or through platforms like Rover, then grow locally.
Charge by the hour or per service (e.g., $20–$30 per walk, $40+ for overnight care).
Offer mobile grooming or open a boutique-style pet salon.
Sell add-ons like pet treats, photos, or care packages for additional revenue.

Pro Tip from a CPA: Track mileage and expenses for a mobile-based pet business. It’s tax-deductible and boosts your profitability when done right.

5. Cleaning Services

Why It’s Recession-Proof: From landlords needing turnover cleaning to homeowners wanting disinfecting services, cleanliness never goes out of style—especially after a pandemic. Both residential and commercial clients prioritize sanitation, regardless of the economy.

How to Make Money:

Launch a residential cleaning business targeting move-ins, move-outs, or weekly cleaning packages.
Offer deep cleaning and disinfecting packages for businesses or Airbnb owners.
Charge per square foot or by the hour ($75–$300+ per service depending on size).
Upsell eco-friendly products or bundle “seasonal refresh” packages.

Pro Tip from a CPA: Set up systems for recurring weekly or biweekly clients. Reliable income = better budgeting and forecasting for your business growth.

✨ Final Thoughts from LeliciaJCPA

Starting a business in a slow economy isn’t just possible—it can be one of the best times to launch. The key is to choose a model that solves essential problems people are still willing to pay for.

These five ideas check every box: