The trend of self-employment is on the rise as more workers opt to leave traditional jobs behind. Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that 10.1% of the workforce was self-employed at the start of last year, marking the highest rate in a decade. In light of this shift, a recent analysis has highlighted the top careers for self-employed individuals, revealing occupations with a high percentage of self-employed workers and promising growth over the next decade.
Top Careers for Self-Employment
Leading the pack are taxi drivers, including rideshare operators, with a staggering 89.7% of workers in this field self-employed. This sector is projected to experience a 15.4% growth over the next ten years. While full-time taxi drivers may earn below the national median salary, rideshare opportunities provide the flexibility to establish one’s own schedule, making them an attractive option for supplemental income or a primary endeavor.
Creative professions also stand out in the realm of self-employment. Notably, four out of the top ten self-employed occupations—photographers, entertainers, DJs, and writers—fall within the arts sector, allowing individuals to maintain creative control and pursue varied projects.
The following table illustrates the top ten self-employment careers:
| Occupation | 2023 Employment | % Self-Employed | Projected Growth (2023-2033) | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi Drivers | 153,500 | 89.7% | 15.4% | $34,680 |
| Couriers and Messengers | 151,200 | 67.1% | 12.3% | $36,760 |
| Exercise Physiologists | 13,100 | 61.3% | 12.2% | $54,860 |
| Therapists | 26,200 | 60.5% | 12.2% | $63,650 |
| Photographers | 98,300 | 65.1% | 7.2% | $40,760 |
| Entertainers, Performers | 34,000 | 60% | 6.9% | $116,410 |
| Barbers | 62,300 | 79.5% | 5.7% | $36,150 |
| DJs (Non-Radio) | 13,800 | 65.6% | 5.7% | $20/hour |
| Psychologists | 41,000 | 72.5% | 5.3% | $117,750 |
| Writers & Authors | 99,200 | 65.9% | 5% | $73,690 |
Generational Trends in Self-Employment
Self-employment is increasingly favored by younger generations who prioritize flexibility and a balanced lifestyle. Millennials represent the highest percentage of freelancers at 45%, followed by Gen X at 27% and Gen Z at 15%. In comparison, only 9% of Baby Boomers and 4% of the Silent Generation partake in freelance work.
The advancement of technology has also played a vital role in this trend, empowering younger individuals to launch businesses, freelance, and work from home more easily. With an expected 32.6 million Americans projected to work remotely by next year, the landscape for self-employment continues to expand.
Flexibility and Work-Life Balance Drive Appeal
Industry experts emphasize the benefits of self-employment, articulating that while the idea of pursuing an independent career may seem challenging, the appeal lies in the flexibility and balance it offers. Diverse options are available for those interested in working on their own terms, whether to earn additional income or to transition into full-time self-employment.
