U.S. Independent Workforce Reaches Record 74.9 Million

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 28, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- MBO Partners by Beeline, in its 16th annual State of Independence study, has revealed that the U.S. independent workforce reached a record 74.9 million people in 2026. This significant milestone underscores a fundamental shift in the American workforce, as more professionals are building long-term independent careers and businesses.

Since 2020, the number of full-time independent professionals has surged by 114%, now representing 22% of all full-time U.S. workers, nearly double their share in 2019. This growth indicates a workforce that is increasingly defined by professionals choosing independence as a primary career choice, rather than a supplementary or occasional activity.

The study, which surveyed 4,557 U.S. adults, including 2,063 independent workers, found that among independent professionals, 78% plan to remain independent or build a larger business. Nearly six in ten professionals intend to continue working independently, while one in five aspire to grow a bigger business. This signals that independent talent is becoming a durable workforce channel, not just a temporary stop between traditional jobs.

Furthermore, the research highlights that an estimated 5.8 million independent professionals now earn more than $100,000 annually, nearly double the number in 2020. This trend underscores the growing economic viability of independent work as a sustainable career path. Additionally, one-third of independent professionals now serve customers outside the United States, nearly three times the share in 2012. As technology reduces geographical constraints, independent professionals are increasingly competing and building businesses in a broader market, while organizations can access expertise from a wider talent pool.

The findings also indicate that nearly eight in ten independent professionals believe that artificial intelligence (AI) complements their work and improves productivity. Generative AI users report an average time savings of nearly 10 hours per week, along with benefits such as deeper insights, expanded customer offerings, and new business opportunities. This suggests that independent professionals can bring both domain expertise and practical experience applying emerging technologies to their work.

The study marks the 16th consecutive year of MBO Partners' State of Independence research. For 30 years, MBO has delivered workforce solutions, including Agent of Record (AOR), Employer of Record (EOR), contractor compliance, and talent solutions, along with specialized services that help organizations assess workforce risk, strengthen compliance, access proven talent, and optimize their independent workforce programs. Today, MBO supports 100+ enterprise organizations, representing more than $1 billion in independent workforce spend.