California, September 24, 2025
News Summary
California is experiencing a significant increase in solopreneurship, with 3.5 million individuals running businesses without employees. This trend reflects nationwide data showing 29.8 million solopreneurs contributing $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy. Innovations such as AI and the influence of social media are enabling this growth, especially among younger female entrepreneurs, shaping a new landscape of entrepreneurship across the country.
California is witnessing a remarkable surge in solopreneurship, with a staggering 3.5 million individuals operating businesses without any paid employees. Nationwide, there are 29.8 million solopreneurs who collectively contribute $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy. This significant economic activity accounts for approximately 6.8% of the total economic output in the country.
According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau released in May, the increasing trend of solopreneurship has developed even amidst various economic challenges such as tariff issues and rising interest rates. Entrepreneurs are now filing over 440,000 applications monthly, a rate that is 90% faster than the averages recorded before the pandemic.
In California, the state ranks highest for the number of solo businesses. On a per capita basis, Florida leads the nation with about 13.3 non-employer establishments per 100 people. This demonstrates the state’s conducive environment for individuals looking to establish themselves in business independently.
The rapid rise of solopreneurs is being significantly bolstered by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), which enables aspiring entrepreneurs to get started swiftly. The barriers to beginning a small business are reportedly at an all-time low. Tools such as ChatGPT permit people to start side hustles in as little as 10 minutes. Furthermore, social media platforms have become instrumental in allowing solopreneurs to connect with consumers quickly and effectively. Notably, around 7.5 million businesses are currently operating on TikTok, underlining the platform’s impact on solo entrepreneurship.
Demographics within solopreneurship are also evolving. Particularly, female entrepreneurs under 30 are the fastest-growing niche, spurred by a rising demand for authenticity and personal connection. This shift reflects broader changes in professional opportunities influenced by technology, which empowers individuals to run global operations from their laptops.
The creator economy is reshaping the landscape, enabling solopreneurs to build personal brands and monetize their services through popular platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon. Such flexibility is notably appealing to many women, especially those juggling parenting responsibilities alongside their careers.
Age is no barrier in solopreneurship; for instance, Susan Bernstein, a 77-year-old retiree, is reworking old jewelry to engage in entrepreneurship, illustrating that this trend includes all age groups.
The contributions from solopreneurs indicate a shift in labor market dynamics, where individuals prioritize their skills and creativity. The preference for personal brands over large corporations is becoming more pronounced as consumers seek genuine connections and authenticity.
In summary, the rise of solopreneurs across the U.S. reflects a significant transformation in the traditional employment landscape, corroborating that entrepreneurship is now more accessible than ever.
FAQ
How many solopreneurs are there in the U.S.?
What economic contribution do solopreneurs make?
Which state has the highest number of solopreneurs?
What demographic is the fastest-growing in solopreneurship?
Key Features of Solopreneurship in America
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Solopreneurs | 29.8 million |
| Economic Contribution | $1.7 trillion |
| Percentage of Total Economic Activity | 6.8% |
| States with the Highest Number of Solopreneurs | California, Florida |
| Fastest-Growing Demographic | Female Entrepreneurs under 30 |
| AI’s Role | Significant enabler for starting businesses |
| Social Media Influence | 7.5 million businesses on TikTok |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CNBC: How to Start Business Ideas & Income Opportunities
- GirlTalkHQ: U.S. States and Cities Where Solopreneurs Make the Most Money
- Forbes: Best Health Insurance for Self-Employed People
- Newswire: Sellvia Launches Small Business Grant Program
- Newswire: Sellvia Wins Gold at Hermes Awards 2025-2026
- Wikipedia: Solopreneur
- Google Search: Solopreneurship
- Google Scholar: Solopreneurship
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Entrepreneurship
- Google News: Solopreneurship
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, 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 OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
