California, September 24, 2025
News Summary
Solopreneurship in the U.S. has surged to new heights, with 29.8 million solo businesses contributing $1.7 trillion to the economy. California is the leader in solo establishments, while Florida has the highest per capita rate. The trend is largely driven by the rise of AI tools that simplify business startups and the increasing preference for personal branding, especially among young female entrepreneurs. As economic dynamics shift, this growth emphasizes the desire for authenticity in the marketplace.
California—The rise of solopreneurship in the United States has reached unprecedented levels, with 29.8 million solopreneurs contributing $1.7 trillion to the economy. This contribution accounts for 6.8% of total economic activity in the nation. The data, collected by the U.S. Census Bureau and released in May, reflects trends up to 2022.
California topped the list with the highest number of solo businesses, boasting 3,502,950 such establishments in 2022. Florida, meanwhile, leads in the per capita rate of solo start-ups, with approximately 13.3 non-employer establishments for every 100 people.
The surge in solopreneurship coincides with a significant increase in entrepreneurial activity. Currently, individuals are filing over 440,000 applications monthly, a rate that is 90% faster than pre-pandemic averages. This remarkable growth persists even in the face of economic challenges like tariffs and high interest rates.
Key to this burgeoning trend is the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), which is enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to start their businesses with ease. Individuals can launch a side hustle in as little as 10 minutes using AI tools, such as ChatGPT. Social media platforms also play a vital role in helping solopreneurs connect with consumers rapidly. Notably, there are around 7.5 million businesses on TikTok, showcasing the platform’s influence in the solopreneur landscape.
The demographic make-up of solopreneurs is shifting, particularly among young female entrepreneurs under 30, who are currently the fastest-growing segment. This growth is driven by a demand for authenticity and personal connection. The emerging “creator economy” is changing how solopreneurs build personal brands and monetize their offerings through platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon.
The evolving market reflects a broader shift in professional opportunities influenced by technology. Individuals can now run a global business with just a laptop. The flexibility of solopreneurship has specific appeal for women, particularly those juggling parenting and work commitments. Furthermore, solopreneurship is not limited by age, as demonstrated by 77-year-old Susan Bernstein, who is reworking old jewelry during retirement.
This shift indicates a growing preference for personal brands over large corporations, reflecting a desire for connection and authenticity in the marketplace. As solopreneurship continues to rise, it encapsulates changing labor dynamics, where skills and creativity often take precedence over traditional employment structures.
Summary of Key Figures
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of solopreneurs | 29.8 million |
| Contribution to the U.S. economy | $1.7 trillion |
| Percentage of total economic activity | 6.8% |
| California solo businesses | 3,502,950 |
| Florida per capita start-ups | 13.3 per 100 people |
| Monthly entrepreneur applications | 440,000 |
| Time to start a side hustle with AI | 10 minutes |
| Businesses on TikTok | 7.5 million |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many solopreneurs are there 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.
What state has the highest number of solo businesses?
California had the highest number of solo businesses in 2022 with 3,502,950.
What is the current rate of applications for new entrepreneurs?
Entrepreneurs are filing over 440,000 applications monthly, a rate 90% faster than pre-pandemic averages.
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
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Solopreneur
- Forbes: Best Health Insurance for Self-Employed People
- Google News: Small Business News
- Girl Talk HQ: U.S. States and Cities Where Solopreneurs Make the Most Money
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, 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 the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
