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Exceed — Regional Economic and Entrepreneurial Development

Missouri Economy Indicators

Recent issues

Vol. 7, Issue 11: Multiple Job and Self-Employed Trends – September 14, 2026 (PDF)

Table showing US multiple job holders by characteristics.

In 2025, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that 8.8 million people held multiple jobs, representing 5.4% of U.S. workers. Adults aged 25 to 54 saw the largest increase of any age group, with the multiple-jobholding rate rising by nearly 1 percentage point (pp). Missouri had more than 485,000 nonemployer establishments in 2023, including 429,000 sole proprietorships, generating $26.2 billion in revenue.

 

 

Vol. 7, Issue 10: Outdoor Recreation – August 17, 2026 (PDF)

Bar graph showing outdoor recreation activity concentration at Missouri state parks.

Outdoor recreation contributes over $10.6 billion to Missouri’s economy, accounting for 2.4% of the state's gross domestic product (GDP). Missouri has a high concentration of hunting-related spending, representing a potential competitive advantage in outdoor recreation. Missouri state park visitor and related household spending supported 11,900 jobs in 2025.

 

Vol. 7, Issue 9: Young Workers Trends – July 13, 2026 (PDF)

Bar graph showing labor force participation rates for young workers ages 16-24 in the U.S. and Missouri from 2010-2014 and 2020-2024.

Missouri’s young labor force is shrinking: the population aged 16 to 24 declined 2.8% over the past decade, leaving 21,000 fewer potential youth workers. Despite this decline, Missouri youth participate in the labor market at a rate above the national average. 16% of Missouri’s private-sector jobs are held by employees under age 25, with most employment in restaurants and retail. As the youth population continues to shrink, upskilling and career advancement will become increasingly important.


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