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 over $7,200 in self-employment revenue per resident in 2018, an increase of over $200 per resident from the previous year. This is similar with the state and over $900 higher per resident than the nation. Essex County's level was up 3% since 2000, compared to a decrease of 2% in the state and a 9% increase in the nation.
How do we compare to similar counties?
Westchester, NY's revenue per resident was much higher than Essex County in 2018, at $11,600 per resident followed by Middlesex, MA at $7,900. Lake, IL was similar to Essex County, at $7,100 per resident. Middlesex experienced a decline similar to the state from 2000, while Lake, IL had a 4% increase.
Notes about the data
Figures are in 2019 dollars. Data is from the U.S. Census Bureau. Census Bureau changed measurement criteria in 2008. Compare to earlier years with caution.