There are 17.7 million independent workers in the U.S. in 2013, up 10% since 2011, according to a study conducted by Rockbridge Associates and Emergent Research on behalf of study sponsor MBO Partners. Independent workers are responsible for nearly $1.2 trillion in income, up 20% from last year, which proves they are a major contributor to the U.S. economy.
Independent workers tend to be happy with their situations, as 64% rate themselves highly satisfied. A strong majority (77%) will stay the course and remain independent into the future.
To learn more about independent workers, their motivations and impact on the economy, read the State of Independence in America report.