Rise of Solopreneurship in the U.S. Economy

United States, September 24, 2025

News Summary

Solopreneurship is rapidly growing in the U.S. with 29.8 million individuals contributing $1.7 trillion to the economy. California leads with the highest number of solo businesses, while Florida tops in per capita startups. The trend is driven by advancements in AI and social media, enabling more people to start businesses without employees. This shift marks a significant reconfiguration of the labor market, emphasizing a demand for authenticity and personal brands over traditional corporate structures.

Solopreneurship is on the rise in the United States, with an estimated 29.8 million solopreneurs contributing approximately $1.7 trillion to the economy. This figure accounts for 6.8% of the total economic activity in the country. The latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates significant growth in this sector, with more individuals opting to start their own businesses without hiring paid employees.

California leads the nation with the highest number of solo businesses, recorded at 3,502,950 in 2022. Meanwhile, Florida ranks first in terms of per capita solo start-ups, boasting about 13.3 non-employer establishments per 100 people. The U.S. Census Bureau data, which was released in May, only covers statistics through 2022, but early indicators show a continued upward trend in solopreneurship.

Entrepreneurial activity has surged recently, with entrepreneurs filing over 440,000 applications monthly—a rate that is approximately 90% faster than averages seen before the pandemic. This increase in solopreneurship continues to gather momentum despite ongoing economic challenges, such as rising tariffs and interest rates.

Driving Forces Behind Growth

Artificial intelligence (AI) is considered a key factor enabling the rapid growth of solopreneurs. The technology has lowered the barriers to starting a business, making it possible for individuals to begin their side hustles in as little as 10 minutes using tools like ChatGPT. Social media also plays a crucial role in connecting solopreneurs with consumers, with approximately 7.5 million businesses active on TikTok, showcasing the platform’s influence on this trend.

Demographic Shifts

Female entrepreneurs under 30 represent the fastest-growing demographic in solopreneurship. Their rise is fueled by a demand for authenticity in personal brands. The “creator economy” is further transforming how solopreneurs establish their presence and monetize their services through platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon.

Changing Professional Landscape

A shift in professional opportunities has emerged, largely influenced by technological advancements. This allows one individual with a laptop to operate a global business. The flexibility of solopreneurship is especially appealing for women, particularly those balancing parenting and other career responsibilities. Furthermore, solopreneurship is not limited by age, as demonstrated by individuals like 77-year-old Susan Bernstein, who has begun working with old jewelry in her retirement.

Authenticity Over Corporations

The current trend reflects a growing preference for personal brands over large corporations, as consumers increasingly seek connection and authenticity in their purchasing experiences. This shift underscores changing dynamics within the labor market, where skills and creativity are valued far more than traditional employment structures.

In conclusion, the surge in solopreneurship indicates a significant reconfiguration of the American labor market, with millions opting to take control of their professional lives through entrepreneurship. As factors such as AI technology and social media continue to evolve, the landscape for solopreneurs is expected to expand even further, offering opportunities that align with contemporary demands for flexibility and connectivity.

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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• CNBC: How to Start Business Ideas & Income Opportunities
• Newswire: Sellvia Launches Small Business Grant Program
• Forbes: Best Health Insurance for Self-Employed People
• Wikipedia: Solopreneurship
• Google Search: Solopreneurship

Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD

The Hollywood Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHollywood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hollywood, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Hollywood Bowl summer concerts, the Hollywood Christmas Parade, film premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre, and festivals at the Magic Castle. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Visit Hollywood, plus leading businesses in entertainment, dining, and tourism that define the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HEREAnaheim.com, and HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.