MBO Partners: U.S. Independent Workforce Hits Record 74.9M in 2026

NewsData.io · United States · Sep 28, 2026

MBO Partners by Beeline's 16th annual State of Independence study finds the U.S. independent workforce reached a record 74.9 million people in 2026, with full-time independents growing 114% since 2020 and now representing 22% of all full-time U.S. workers. An estimated 5.8 million independent professionals earn over $100,000 annually, nearly double the 2020 figure, and 78% plan to remain independent or grow their businesses long-term. A companion report developed with Staffing Industry Analysts examines how enterprises are adapting workforce strategies to engage this expanding talent pool. For staffing firms, the data reinforces growing demand for AOR, EOR, and contractor compliance solutions as organizations seek structured ways to access and manage independent talent at scale.