The United States has seen a significant rise in one-person shops, driven by digital tools, remote work, and economic flexibility. Solo entrepreneurs now account for over 30% of all U.S. businesses, with sectors like e-commerce, consulting, and freelancing growing fastest.

This trend stems from reduced barriers to entry and technological advancements. For instance, the U.S. Census Bureau reported a 20% increase in business formations by solo operators between 2020 and 2023, reflecting access to platforms like Shopify and Zoom. The gig economy, valued at $1.2 trillion in 2023 (Bureau of Economic Analysis), has enabled individuals to monetize niche skills without traditional overhead. Remote work tools and gig platforms (e.g., Uber, Upwork) further democratized entrepreneurship. However, challenges persist, including income volatility and regulatory complexity. A 2022 National Bureau of Economic Research study found that self-employed workers face a 40% higher risk of income instability compared to traditional employees. Despite this, the rise of one-person shops aligns with broader labor market shifts toward flexibility and digitalization, supported by a 15% annual growth in freelance jobs since 2019 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). These factors collectively position solo entrepreneurship as a cornerstone of U.S. economic resilience and innovation.