California, September 24, 2025
News Summary
California is witnessing a remarkable increase in solopreneurship, with 29.8 million solopreneurs across the U.S. contributing approximately $1.7 trillion to the economy. The rate of new business applications has surged to over 440,000 monthly, showcasing a shift in employment dynamics. Female entrepreneurs under 30 are now the fastest-growing demographic in this sector, emphasizing creativity and authenticity in business practices, aided by technology and social media platforms.
California is experiencing a surge in solopreneurship, with a staggering 29.8 million solopreneurs currently operating in the United States. These individuals, who run businesses without any paid employees, contribute approximately $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy, accounting for 6.8% of total economic activity. This rise in solo entrepreneurship highlights changing dynamics in the labor market, where skills and creativity take precedence over traditional employment structures.
According to U.S. Census Bureau data released in May, which only captures statistics through 2022, entrepreneurs are filing over 440,000 applications monthly, a rate that is 90% faster than pre-pandemic averages. This increase in solopreneurship is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing economic challenges posed by tariffs and high interest rates, indicating that the barriers to starting small businesses are currently at an all-time low.
California leads the nation with the highest number of solo businesses, tallying 3,502,950 in 2022. Meanwhile, Florida stands out for per capita solo start-ups, with approximately 13.3 non-employer establishments per 100 people. These numbers reflect a nationwide trend of flourishing individual entrepreneurship, further exemplified by a significant demographic shift. Female entrepreneurs under 30 are now recognized as the fastest-growing demographic within solopreneurship, driven largely by a demand for authenticity in business practices.
Technology is playing a crucial role in this trend, with advances in artificial intelligence (AI) recognized as a vital enabler of solopreneurship. AI tools such as ChatGPT allow individuals to potentially start a side hustle in as little as 10 minutes. Social media has also emerged as an important platform for solopreneurs, enabling them to connect with consumers swiftly and effectively. For instance, there are around 7.5 million businesses on TikTok, which underscores the platform’s influence in fostering new entrepreneurial ventures.
Experts highlight a transformational shift within the so-called “creator economy,” which changes how solopreneurs build personal brands and monetize their services via platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon. This development illustrates the growing preference among consumers for personal brands over large corporations, fostering a landscape defined by connection and authenticity.
As the solopreneurship trend continues to evolve, individuals of all ages are tapping into this potential. For example, Susan Bernstein, aged 77, exemplifies how solopreneurship spans generations, as she reworks old jewelry in her retirement. The flexibility afforded by solopreneurship is particularly attractive to women who are balancing parenting responsibilities with their careers.
Overall, the rise in solopreneurship reflects a broader shift in professional opportunities influenced by technological advances. One person with a laptop can now run a global business, showcasing how the landscape of entrepreneurship has transformed in recent years. This trend points to an economy increasingly defined by creativity, innovation, and the ability of individuals to carve out their paths.
FAQ
How many solopreneurs are there in the U.S.?
There are 29.8 million solopreneurs in the U.S.
How much do solopreneurs contribute to the economy?
Solopreneurs contribute approximately $1.7 trillion to the U.S. economy.
Which 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 rate of new business applications?
Entrepreneurs are filing over 440,000 applications monthly, a rate 90% faster than pre-pandemic averages.
What role does AI play in solopreneurship?
AI is seen as a significant factor enabling the growth of solopreneurs, allowing individuals to start a side hustle in as little as 10 minutes.
What is the fastest-growing demographic in solopreneurship?
Female entrepreneurs under 30 are the fastest-growing demographic in solopreneurship.
Key Features of Solopreneurship
| Feature | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Number of Solopreneurs in the U.S. | 29.8 million |
| Economic Contribution | $1.7 trillion |
| Percentage of Economic Activity | 6.8% |
| New Business Applications Rate | 440,000 monthly |
| California Solo Businesses | 3,502,950 |
| Fastest-Growing Demographic | Female Entrepreneurs under 30 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CNBC: How to Start Business Ideas & Income Opportunities
- Wikipedia: Solopreneur
- GirlTalkHQ: U.S. States and Cities Where Solopreneurs Make the Most Money
- Google Search: Solopreneurship
- Forbes: Best Health Insurance for Self-Employed People
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Entrepreneurship
- MSN: America’s Solopreneur Business Model is Booming
- Google News: Solopreneurship
Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, San Diego 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 Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
