Nonemployer Statistics (NES) represent a crucial dataset that captures the economic activity of America's vast network of solo entrepreneurs and small businesses operating without paid employees. Published annually by the U.S. Census Bureau since 1997, this comprehensive resource provides invaluable insights into sole proprietorships, independent contractors, and self-employed individuals who form the backbone of American entrepreneurship.
The majority of all business establishments in the United States are actually nonemployers. These include self-employed individuals operating unincorporated businesses, along with some partnerships and corporations that choose to operate without hiring employees. From freelance consultants and independent artisans to gig economy workers and small-scale retailers, Nonemployer Statistics illuminate an often-overlooked segment of the national economy.
What Nonemployer Statistics Measure
Nonemployer Statistics provide two primary data points: the number of establishments and total annual receipts. This subnational economic data breaks down by industry classification, allowing researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to understand entrepreneurial trends at granular geographic levels across the United States.
The data originate from business income tax records that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides to the Census Bureau, ensuring accuracy and comprehensive coverage. While NES has been published annually since 1997, historical data is also available from earlier Economic Census publications dating back to 1972, 1977, 1987, and 1992.
Practical Applications and Uses of NES Data
The impact of Nonemployer Statistics extends across multiple sectors. The Bureau of Economic Analysis incorporates this data when calculating the total Gross Domestic Product, ensuring that solo entrepreneurial activity contributes to national economic measurements. State and local government offices leverage NES to assess business landscape changes, track entrepreneurial trends, and develop informed fiscal strategies that support small business growth.
Prospective business owners find particular value in analyzing Nonemployer Statistics when evaluating market potential and competitive landscapes. By understanding the density and revenue patterns of nonemployer businesses in specific industries and locations, entrepreneurs can make data-driven decisions about where and how to launch their ventures.
Access Nonemployer Statistics Through Social Explorer
The Social Explorer community analysis application provides seamless access to this essential Census Bureau dataset as part of its comprehensive public data library. Using Social Explorer, researchers, students, business analysts, and policymakers can explore economic and entrepreneurial trends, create custom visualizations, and extract meaningful insights from Nonemployer Statistics to inform decisions and support research initiatives across the United States. Sign up for a free trial today to start exploring.