Building wealth in GTA Online requires strategic business investments. With multiple options available, choosing your first business can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide breaks down the best businesses to maximize your profits in 2025.
Why Business Selection Matters 💼
Investing in the right business sets the foundation for your criminal empire. Poor choices can waste millions and hours of gameplay. Understanding each business’s ROI (Return on Investment) is crucial for success.
Best Business Rankings for Beginners
S-Tier: Must-Buy Businesses
1. Agency (The Contract DLC)
Initial Investment: $2.01M – $2.83M
Profit Potential: $1M+ per week
The Agency offers the best balance of passive and active income. Security contracts provide quick cash while the VIP Contract pays $1M for a few hours of work.
Benefits:
• Low time investment required
• Excellent passive income through safe
• Access to exclusive vehicles
• No supply management needed
2. Kosatka Submarine (Cayo Perico Heist)
Initial Investment: $2.2M
Profit Potential: $1.5M per heist (90 minutes)
The Kosatka remains the fastest money-maker in GTA Online. Solo-friendly and repeatable, it’s perfect for new players.
Business Comparison Table
| Business Type | Initial Cost | Hourly Profit | Solo Friendly | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agency | $2.01M+ | $150K/hr | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Kosatka | $2.2M | $1M/hr | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Nightclub | $1.08M+ | $50K/hr | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Bunker | $1.16M+ | $75K/hr | No | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| CEO Cargo | $1M+ | $200K/hr | No | ⭐⭐⭐ |
A-Tier: Solid Investments
3. Nightclub
While requiring other businesses to maximize profits, the Nightclub offers exceptional passive income once established.
4. Bunker
Perfect for players who enjoy supply missions. Upgrades are essential for profitability.
Business Priority Order
For New Players:
1. Kosatka – Quick cash generation
2. Agency – Balanced income streams
3. Auto Shop – Good starter business
4. Arcade – Access to Casino Heist
For Experienced Players:
1. Agency – Maximum passive income
2. Nightclub – Connect to other businesses
3. Bunker – Upgraded passive income
4. MC Businesses – Nightclub integration
Profit Maximization Tips
Essential Upgrades:
• Staff Upgrade: Reduces production time by 25%
• Equipment Upgrade: Increases product value by 30%
• Security Upgrade: Prevents costly raids
Businesses to Avoid Initially
❌ Document Forgery Office: Lowest profit margins
❌ Weed Farm: Poor ROI without upgrades
❌ Counterfeit Cash: Better options available
Time Investment vs Reward
High Time, High Reward:
• CEO Special Cargo
• Vehicle Warehouse
• MC Businesses
Low Time, High Reward:
• Cayo Perico Heist
• Agency Contracts
• Auto Shop Contracts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying Location Over Function: Don’t waste money on Maze Bank Tower when cheaper offices work equally well
- Ignoring Upgrades: Un-upgraded businesses barely turn profit
- Overextending Too Early: Focus on one profitable business before expanding
Conclusion
For 2025, the Kosatka remains the best first business purchase for quick money generation. Follow it with the Agency for balanced income, then expand to the Nightclub and Bunker. This progression ensures steady cash flow while building your criminal empire.
Start with businesses that match your playstyle – solo players should prioritize the Kosatka and Agency, while team players can explore CEO cargo and MC businesses earlier. Check out our GTA Online money making guide and heists ranking for more strategies! 💰