Genealogy & Family History Research

Research family histories and genealogy for individuals and families

Startup Cost
$5,000-$25,000
Difficulty
Intermediate
Time to Profit
6-12 months
Profit Potential
$5,000-$33,000/month

Overview

Genealogy researchers generate $60,000-$400,000 annually with 80-95% margins.

In 2025, discovering family history drives genealogy interest.

Revenue from family tree research ($500-$5,000 per project), comprehensive genealogy reports ($2,000-$15,000), ancestral homeland research and travel, heir and estate research ($1,000-$10,000), DNA analysis interpretation ($200-$1,000), and genealogy consulting ($100-$250 hourly).

Successful researchers access genealogy databases and records (Ancestry, FamilySearch), search census and vital records, verify and document genealogy findings, construct accurate family trees, and present family history narratives.

Individuals interested in family history as clients.

Marketing through genealogy associations, DNA testing companies, historical societies, genealogy conferences, and family history publications.

Required Skills

  • Genealogy Research Methods
  • Records Navigation
  • Historical Research
  • DNA Analysis Basics
  • Family Tree Construction
  • Historical Context

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Growing interest in family history and DNA
  • Emotionally rewarding work for clients
  • Can work remotely with online records
  • Multiple genealogy service offerings
  • Recurring clients researching different lines

Cons

  • Genealogy database subscriptions costly
  • Research can hit dead ends or limitations
  • Time-intensive record searching
  • Individual clients may have limited budgets
  • Some records unavailable or destroyed

How to Get Started

  1. Learn genealogy research methodologies
  2. Access genealogy databases and records
  3. Obtain genealogy certifications if desired
  4. Market to individuals interested in family history
  5. Interview clients and gather known information
  6. Research records and construct family tree
  7. Present family history findings and narrative

Explore More Specialized Research Services Ideas

Discover additional business opportunities in this category.

View All Specialized Research Services Ideas →