#United States #Washington #Rideshare #Flex Association #Delivery Apps

The Resurgence of the App-Based Platform Economy

Recent findings from a study commissioned by Flex, the trade association representing app-based platforms, reveal an impressive growth trajectory for the app-based economy in the United States. As of 2025, this burgeoning sector is projected to contribute a staggering $414 billion to the national economy—marking a remarkable doubling of economic impact since 2022.

Growth Overview

The study underscores a significant increase in both the number of completed orders and the income generated by independent workers in the gig economy. In the previous year alone, approximately 9.4 million drivers and couriers facilitated around 6.3 billion rideshare and delivery orders via Flex member platforms. Notably, these workers amassed an additional $8.9 billion in earnings, reflecting the benefits of flexible working arrangements.

The findings also highlight that nearly 43% of U.S. adults have turned to app-based platforms for supplementary income. Many individuals use these platforms to fill gaps in traditional employment or to enhance their primary incomes, highlighting the shift towards a more dynamic income structure within the workforce.

Consumer Usage Statistics

Consumer engagement with app-based platforms mirrors this growth. A significant 61% of adults reported using rideshare services in the past year, with 73% of those relying on these services for essential trips, such as reaching medical appointments. Moreover, 37% of users indicated that they would not have made certain trips without the convenience of rideshare applications.

Economic Impact on Local Businesses

The app-based economy is not just reshaping individual livelihoods but also bolstering local commerce. Rideshare and delivery platforms are estimated to have generated an additional $53 billion for local businesses and restaurants in 2025—an impressive 65% increase since 2022. This revenue boost illustrates the crucial role that these platforms play in supporting local economies.

Future Projections

Looking toward the future, the report forecasts that the financial activity associated with rideshare and delivery services could escalate to $579 billion by 2035. This anticipated growth is driven by increasing demand for flexible services and earning opportunities, solidifying the importance of the gig economy in the U.S.

Conclusion

Kristin Sharp, CEO of Flex, emphasized the significance of these findings, stating, "This updated data confirms what millions of Americans already know—app-based work is a critical part of the U.S. economy. Nearly half of U.S. adults have turned to platforms to earn income, and the flexibility they offer continually proves its worth to workers, consumers, and local economies alike."

The study effectively highlights the vital role of app-based economies in shaping the future of work, reinforcing the essential need for policies that sustain such flexible earning opportunities which contribute hundreds of billions to the economy and support the livelihoods of millions of workers.

About Flex

Flex is a representative voice for the app-based economy, advocating for leading rideshare and delivery platforms, and supporting the individuals who depend on them for income. Member companies such as DoorDash, Uber, and Lyft play instrumental roles in enhancing accessibility to goods and services while fostering substantial economic growth across communities. For additional information, the complete report containing national and state-level data is accessible through Flex’s official channels.