Top 6 States for the Self-Employed To Make Money in 2025
Written by
Emily Fowler
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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For many entrepreneurs, the ability to work from anywhere in the world is a huge perk. And for those who work alone with no employees, also known as solopreneurs, choosing their location is even easier.
The most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau shared that there are around 28.5 million “nonemployer businesses” — meaning solopreneurs — finding success across the U.S.
Some areas are more lucrative than others, though — a recent study from Switch on Business looked at the average revenue of nonemployer firms in each state. Here are the top six states for the solo self-employed to make money in 2025.
Delaware
- Average solopreneur revenue: $72,000
Delaware tops the list for solopreneurs looking to make the most money. The state’s business-friendly environment, including no sales tax and lower overall taxes, creates an ideal landscape for self-employed individuals. Within the state itself, Kent County is the standout, with solopreneurs pulling in an average revenue of $75,000.
New Jersey
- Average solopreneur revenue: $65,000
With its proximity to two significant metropolitan hubs — New York City and Philadelphia — for access to clients and resources, New Jersey is a booming environment for solopreneurs. Bergen County leads the state, with nonemployer businesses making an impressive $77,000 on average.
Connecticut
- Average solopreneur revenue: $65,000
Connecticut is another attractive state for solopreneurs, with plenty of affluent neighborhoods and easy access to New York City, though many of its state taxes are relatively high — and it’s currently the only state to have a gift tax, something to bear in mind for future business succession or wealth transfer purposes. Fairfield County stands out here, where nonemployer businesses pull in an average of $80,000.
New Hampshire
- Average solopreneur revenue: $64,000
New Hampshire provides an excellent environment for solopreneurs, with generally low taxes and a high quality of life. Rockingham County stands out as the most lucrative area for solopreneurs in New Hampshire, where they currently make an average of $75,000.
Wyoming
- Average solopreneur revenue: $63,000
Wyoming may be a surprising contender, but its low taxes and less crowded market make it an attractive location for many self-employed people. Sheridan County, in particular, leads the state, with nonemployer firms earning an average of $95,000, setting it apart as the highest-earning county both in Wyoming and in the country as a whole!
New York
- Average solopreneur revenue: $60,000
Despite its high cost of living, New York remains one of the best states for solopreneurs, offering unmatched access to resources and a dynamic business environment. New York County leads the way within the state, with nonemployer firms averaging $93,000 in revenue, making the county a prime location for entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the state’s vast market.
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