New IAB Research:
The Digital Economy Surges to $4.9 Trillion, Supporting 28.4 Million Jobs Nationwide
Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) is proud to release the fifth edition of its long-running economic research series, Measuring the Digital Economy: Advertising, Content, Commerce, and Innovation.
This landmark report—published about every four years—offers a comprehensive view of how the internet is transforming the American economy. The latest findings show the Digital Economy has more than doubled since 2020, now reaching $4.9 trillion—18% of U.S. GDP—and supporting 28.4 million jobs across all 435 congressional districts.
Designed for policymakers, business leaders, and technology professionals, the report illustrates how digital innovation fuels job growth, broadens economic opportunity, and touches every corner of the country.
Key Findings at a Glance
- $4.9 Trillion in GDP Impact: The Digital Economy now makes up 18% of U.S. GDP, up from 11% in 2020.
- 28.4 Million Jobs Nationwide: Internet-related jobs are growing 12x faster than the overall labor market.
- Every District, Every Sector: Digital jobs exist in all 435 congressional districts, not just in tech hubs.
- Creator Economy on the Rise: Over 1.5 million Americans now work full-time as digital creators—7.5x growth since 2020.
- Democratized Workforce: Nearly 70% of job growth comes from independent creators, e-commerce entrepreneurs, platform earners, and integrated digital firms.
Why It Matters: Policy and Economic Impact
The digital economy is not just a catalyst for growth—it is a cornerstone of America’s economic engine. From creators and small businesses to global platforms, digital innovation is enabling people and enterprises of all sizes to thrive.
To further examine the policy implications of these findings, IAB will host a Capitol Hill briefing for congressional staff on June 26 in Washington, D.C. This timely discussion will focus on how forward-thinking policy can support continued growth, safeguard innovation, and extend the benefits of the digital economy to every community across the country.
As lawmakers shape the future of digital regulation, Measuring the Digital Economy offers essential insights for building smart, inclusive, and innovation-friendly policies.
This is the fifth edition of IAB’s economic research series, produced about every four years. It is authored by John Deighton, Harold M. Brierley Professor of Business Administration Emeritus, Harvard Business School, and Principal Research Consultant Leora Kornfeld.
