California, September 24, 2025
News Summary
The growth of solopreneurship in the U.S. is remarkable, with approximately 29.8 million individuals running their own businesses without employees, contributing $1.7 trillion to the economy. This trend is fueled by technology, especially AI, allowing quick business startups. Women under 30 are the fastest-growing demographic, seeking authentic business relationships and flexible work. California leads with the highest number of solopreneurs, and social media platforms like TikTok enhance visibility and connections.
California — The phenomenon of solopreneurship is experiencing remarkable growth across America, with 29.8 million solopreneurs currently operating in the country. These individuals run businesses without any paid employees and contribute a staggering $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy, representing 6.8% of total economic activity.
The market for solopreneurs is expanding despite ongoing economic challenges such as high-interest rates and tariffs, demonstrating a resilient entrepreneurial spirit. The number of entrepreneurs filing business applications has surged to over 440,000 applications monthly, a pace that is 90% faster than the pre-pandemic averages, reflecting a significant shift in the labor landscape.
State Highlights
California ranks as the state with the highest number of solo businesses, accounting for 3,502,950 solopreneurs in 2022. Meanwhile, Florida leads the nation in per capita solo start-ups, with approximately 13.3 non-employer establishments for every 100 people.
Technology’s Role
A major driver of the solopreneurship boom is artificial intelligence (AI), which has lowered barriers to starting a business. Tools such as ChatGPT enable individuals to launch side hustles in as little as 10 minutes. This technological advancement is complemented by the strong influence of social media platforms; there are about 7.5 million businesses on TikTok, highlighting how these platforms facilitate quick connections between solopreneurs and consumers.
Demographics of Solopreneurs
Among solopreneurs, female entrepreneurs under 30 represent the fastest-growing demographic, motivated by a demand for authenticity in their business relationships and offerings. The rise of the “creator economy” is also reshaping how solopreneurs establish personal brands and monetize their services through platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon.
The flexibility of solopreneurship appeals particularly to women balancing parenting with their careers, while older individuals, such as 77-year-old Susan Bernstein, exemplify the trend’s accessibility across all ages. Susan, for example, reworks old jewelry as a creative pursuit in her retirement.
Changing Labor Market Dynamics
Experts note the ongoing transformation in professional opportunities driven by technology. The ability for a single individual to run a global business using just a laptop signifies a departure from traditional employment structures. The preference for personal brands over large corporations illustrates the evolving needs of both entrepreneurs and consumers, who increasingly seek connection and authenticity in service offerings.
Conclusion
The surge in solopreneurship not only underscores a changing economic landscape but also reflects a burgeoning trend where skills and creativity are prized over conventional job roles. The implications for the future of work are profound, as more individuals take control of their careers through innovative business models and digital platforms.
FAQ
What is the number of solopreneurs in the U.S.?
The U.S. has 29.8 million solopreneurs (businesses with no paid employees).
How much do solopreneurs contribute to the economy?
Solopreneurs contribute $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy, making up 6.8% of total economic activity.
Which state has the highest number of solo businesses?
California had the highest number of solo businesses in 2022 with 3,502,950.
What state ranks first in per capita solo start-ups?
Florida ranked first in per capita solo start-ups with about 13.3 non-employer establishments per 100 people.
How has the rate of entrepreneurs filing applications changed?
Entrepreneurs are filing over 440,000 applications monthly, a rate 90% faster than pre-pandemic averages.
What role does AI play in solopreneurship?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is seen as a significant factor enabling the growth of solopreneurs, with individuals able to start a side hustle in as little as 10 minutes.
What is the significance of social media in solopreneurship?
Social media plays a crucial role in allowing solopreneurs to connect with consumers quickly, with approximately 7.5 million businesses on TikTok.
Who is the fastest-growing demographic in solopreneurship?
Female entrepreneurs under 30 are the fastest-growing demographic in solopreneurship, driven by demand for authenticity.
What does the trend in solopreneurship signify?
The trend indicates a growing preference for personal brands over large corporations due to the desire for connection and authenticity.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CNBC: How to Start Business Ideas & Income Opportunities
- Wikipedia: Solopreneurship
- MSN: America’s Solopreneur Business Model is Booming
- Google Search: Solopreneurship
- Newswire: Sellvia Launches Small Business Grant Program
- Google Scholar: Solopreneurship Trends
- Girl Talk HQ: U.S. States and Cities Where Solopreneurs Make the Most Money
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Entrepreneurship
- LendingTree: Very Small Businesses Study
- Google News: Solopreneurship Growth
Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER
MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange 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 Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
