The number of local businesses that have closed in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic is significant and varies by industry and location. According to a report by Yelp, as of September 2021, over 160,000 businesses have permanently closed since the start of the pandemic. The hardest hit sectors were restaurants, retail, and beauty/personal care services. The closures have been especially severe in urban areas and among small businesses. Additionally, a survey from the National Federation of Independent Business shows that 21% of small businesses were closed in December 2020 due to pandemic. The number of businesses that have closed as a result of the pandemic is likely to continue to change as the situation evolves.