Startup cost: $100 - $2k

Setup costs for starting a tour guide side hustle can range from $100 to $2,000. At the low end, you may only need to invest in basic promotional materials like flyers and business cards. On the higher end, costs could include website development, marketing tools, insurance, and licensing fees. Essential expenses at launch include creating an online presence, obtaining necessary permits, and possibly investing in comfortable walking shoes and a good quality camera. Optional expenses might include paid advertising or hiring a professional photographer for tour images. Hidden costs could include ongoing insurance premiums or fees for maintaining a professional website. Online feedback suggests that while it can be started relatively low-cost, expenses can increase once you commit to growing the business. If a friend wanted to take this seriously, I would recommend budgeting between $500 to $1,000 initially to cover essential startup expenses and ensure a professional presentation to potential clients.