Starting a business can feel like stepping into the unknown, but some industries continue to offer a stronger chance of long-term survival. While no venture is guaranteed to thrive, certain businesses tend to experience lower failure rates due to steady demand, manageable overhead, and structural market stability. Below, we explore the top 10 businesses that continue to demonstrate relatively low failure rates heading into 2026, making them attractive options for entrepreneurs and investors alike.

1. Mobile Home Parks

Why Mobile Home Parks Continue to Perform
Mobile home parks remain a compelling investment due to persistent demand for affordable housing. With housing affordability still under pressure in many markets, these communities continue to attract residents seeking lower monthly living costs. Because tenants typically own their homes, operators often face lower maintenance expenses than other residential real estate assets.

Key Considerations
Performance still hinges on location, management quality, and local regulations. Zoning laws, rent control considerations, and infrastructure condition should be carefully reviewed to support long-term stability.

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2. Laundromats

A Proven, Durable Model
Laundromats continue to show strong survival rates, driven by their essential nature. Clean clothing is a non-discretionary need, which helps insulate these businesses from economic cycles.

Tips for Success
High-visibility locations, modern energy-efficient equipment, and consistent upkeep remain key drivers of profitability. Many operators in 2026 are also adding mobile payment options and loyalty programs to improve customer retention.

3. Self-Storage Facilities

Ongoing Demand for Space
Self-storage facilities continue to benefit from lifestyle mobility, downsizing trends, and small-business storage needs. The model typically involves low staffing requirements and predictable monthly revenue.

What to Watch For
Market saturation remains the primary risk. Thorough feasibility studies and conservative underwriting are essential, particularly in metros with significant recent supply growth.

4. Essential Home Services (Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC)

Consistent Demand for Skilled Trades
Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC businesses continue to experience low failure rates due to year-round necessity. Aging housing stock and increased renovation activity further support demand.

Building a Strong Reputation
Licensing, certifications, and responsiveness remain critical. Businesses that prioritize service quality and transparent pricing tend to outperform over time.

5. Accounting and Bookkeeping Services

Reliable Need for Financial Support
Accounting and bookkeeping services remain resilient as businesses navigate ongoing tax, compliance, and reporting requirements. Demand spans startups, small businesses, and individuals alike.

Staying Competitive
Specialization, advisory services, and effective use of cloud-based accounting platforms continue to differentiate firms in 2026.

6. IT Support and Services

Sustained Growth in a Tech-Dependent Economy
As businesses rely more heavily on cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and remote work systems, IT support services remain in strong demand.

Challenges to Address
Keeping pace with evolving technology and security threats is essential. Managed service models and long-term client contracts help stabilize revenue.

7. Real Estate (Rental Properties)

Ongoing Housing Demand
Long-term residential rental properties continue to provide relative stability, supported by persistent housing shortages in many regions.

Navigating Market Conditions
Interest rates, insurance costs, and local regulations remain important variables. Conservative leverage and disciplined property management are critical to long-term success.

8. Grocery Stores and Essential Retail

Necessity-Driven Resilience
Grocery stores and essential retail businesses continue to demonstrate lower failure rates than discretionary retail categories. Demand remains consistent regardless of broader economic trends.

Strategies for Growth
Private-label products, local sourcing, and efficient inventory management are increasingly important differentiators.

9. Senior Care Services

Demographic Tailwinds
Senior care services remain supported by long-term demographic trends. Demand for in-home care, assisted living, and specialized services continues to rise as populations age.

Ensuring Quality Care
Staffing, compliance, and service quality remain the primary success factors. Businesses that invest in training and retention tend to outperform.

10. Vending Machine Businesses

Low Overhead, Location-Driven Performance
Vending machine businesses remain viable when placed in high-traffic environments such as offices, gyms, and healthcare facilities.

Keys to Profitability
Product selection, machine uptime, and strong location agreements continue to determine outcomes. Cashless payment options are now standard expectations.

Final Thoughts on the Top 10 Businesses with the Lowest Failure Rates in 2026

While no path is risk-free, the top 10 businesses mentioned above continue to demonstrate resilience due to essential demand, recurring revenue, and relatively stable operating models. Mobile home parks, in particular, remain notable for their combination of affordability-driven demand and operational durability. With careful planning, market research, and disciplined execution, these business types may offer entrepreneurs and investors a stronger foundation for long-term success in 2026 and beyond.

Are you looking for MORE information? Book a 1-on-1 consultation with Andrew Keel to discuss:

• A mobile home park deal review
• Due diligence questions
• How to raise capital from investors
• Mistakes to avoid, and more!

Disclaimer:

The information provided is for informational purposes only and is not investment advice or a guarantee of any kind. We do not guarantee profitability. Make investment decisions based on your research and consult registered financial and legal professionals. We are not registered financial or legal professionals and do not provide personalized investment recommendations.