What does this measure?

The amount of revenue brought into a community by self-employment, presented per working-age resident.

Why is this important?

Those who are self-employed provide value to their community and are a vital part of a community's economic structure. High levels of self-employment may indicate a favorable economic environment for small business owners and entrepreneurs, as well as provide insight into the composition of a community's economic profile.

How is our county doing?

Essex County had just under $9,700 in self-employment revenue per resident in 2023, an increase of over $100 per resident from the previous year. Essex County's self-employment revenue is higher than the state and over $1,000 higher per resident than the nation. Essex County's level was up 24% since 2010, compared to a increase of 17% in the state and a 26% increase in the nation.

How do we compare to similar counties?

Westchester, NY's revenue per resident was much higher than Essex County in 2023, at $14,500 per resident followed by Middlesex, MA at $10,000. Lake, IL was similar to Essex County, at $9,400 per resident. All comparison counties experienced increases since 2010 but Essex had the greatest growth.

Notes about the data

Figures are in 2024 dollars. Data is from the U.S. Census Bureau.