50 Most Successful Small Businesses to Start in America

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15. Marketing Consulting Services
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +28.2%
> Total establishments, 2021: 48,009
> Total employees, 2021: 262,204
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $78,974

With the rise of digital technologies and the expansion of online platforms, marketing has become more complex. Businesses are seeking specialized expertise to navigate the evolving landscape and effectively reach their target audiences. This has led to a growing demand for marketing consulting services to provide strategic guidance and insights. The number of businesses in the industry rose 28.2% from 37,454 in 2017 to 48,009 in 2021, among the fastest expansions of any industry.

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14. Nail Salons
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +28.5%
> Total establishments, 2021: 32,078
> Total employees, 2021: 122,646
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $25,034

There has been an increasing emphasis on personal grooming and self-care, with a particular focus on nail care and aesthetics, leading to greater demand for nail salons. The number of businesses in the industry rose 28.5% from 24,955 in 2017 to 32,078 in 2021, among the fastest expansions of any industry.

Additionally, nail salons have expanded their service offerings beyond basic manicures and pedicures. Many salons now provide additional services like nail extensions, gel polish, nail art, and spa treatments. This diversification has attracted a wider customer base and increased the appeal of nail salons as comprehensive beauty and pampering destinations.

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13. Record Production and Distribution
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +28.6%
> Total establishments, 2021: 877
> Total employees, 2021: 10,079
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $173,769

The increasing popularity of streaming platforms and digital music consumption has led to a surge in demand for recorded music. With the ease of accessing music through online platforms, consumers have shown a greater inclination towards streaming and downloading music, resulting in increased demand for record production and distribution. The number of businesses in the industry rose 28.6% from 682 in 2017 to 877 in 2021, far greater than the national business establishment growth of 3.7%.

Another factor behind growth in the industry may be technological advancements, which made it more accessible and affordable for artists and record producers to create high-quality recordings. This has led to an increase in the number of recording studios and production facilities, contributing to the growth of the industry.

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12. Offices of Real Estate Agents and Brokers
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +30.1%
> Total establishments, 2021: 158,902
> Total employees, 2021: 383,471
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $82,226

The robust growth of the housing market, driven by factors such as low mortgage rates and favorable economic conditions during the years considered, has led to more individuals and families seeking to buy or sell properties. This has led to a surge in demand for real estate agents and brokers.. Over the past few years, the number of businesses in the industry rose 30.1% from 122,154 in 2017 to 158,902 in 2021.

One other factor behind growth in the industry may be population growth and urbanization. The steady population growth, coupled with urbanization trends, has fueled the demand for real estate services. As cities expand and attract more residents, the need for real estate agents and brokers to assist in property transactions, relocation, and finding suitable housing options has grown.

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11. Refrigeration Equipment and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers
> Establishment growth, 2017 to 2021: +32.5%
> Total establishments, 2021: 1,199
> Total employees, 2021: 11,694
> Avg. annual pay, 2021: $74,531

The expansion of the food and beverage industry, including restaurants, cafes, grocery stores, and food processing facilities, has driven the demand for refrigeration equipment and supplies. These establishments require refrigeration systems to store and preserve perishable goods, creating a steady demand for products offered by refrigeration equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers. The number of businesses in the industry rose 32.5% from 905 in 2017 to 1,199 in 2021.

Also, advancements in refrigeration technology have improved energy efficiency, temperature control, and storage capacity of refrigeration equipment. These innovations have made refrigeration systems more appealing to businesses and industries, leading to an increased supply of refrigeration equipment and supplies from merchant wholesalers.