7 articles tagged with 2026.
Drone businesses can hit 40–65% profit margins — but most new operators lose money in year one. Here is the actual math: revenue by niche, cost breakdown, break-even timeline, and the mistakes that kill profitability.
Starting a drone business costs $2,500–$25,000 depending on your niche. Here is the step-by-step breakdown: Part 107, equipment, insurance, pricing, and finding your first clients.
Drone pilot salaries by state (2026): top markets pay $90K–$130K+. Washington, New York, and California lead — but your best market depends on your industry niche.
2026 drone inspection pricing: residential roof $150–$400, commercial $400–$1,200, solar $300–$10,000+, bridge $1,500–$5,000, wind turbine $800–$2,500. Full breakdown by type, size, and sensor.
2026 drone photo rates: real estate $150–$350, commercial $300–$800, events $200–$500. Pricing tables by niche plus how to stop undercharging for editing.
Set competitive rates for drone photography, inspections, mapping, and more. Includes pricing tables by service type, formulas for calculating your rate, and common mistakes that leave money on the table.
US drone pilots earn $79K–$131K/year on average — top operators clear $200K+. 2026 rates broken down by sector, experience level, country, and what actually erodes your take-home pay.