Ultimate Guide to Freelancing in United States of America in 2024

Ultimate Guide to Freelancing in United States of America in 2024

What is a Freelancer in United States of America?

A freelancer is an independent worker in United States of America who earns a living working for different businesses or organisations on a flexible per-job or per-task basis, typically for short-term work.

Being a freelancer in the United States has many advantages, both personal and professional. First, freelancers in the US have freedom and flexibility of their work, as well as the chance to work from anywhere in the country and often around the world. The US has many great client opportunities for freelancers, which can help them make more money with the same amount of time and energy as a standard job. Second, freelancing offers personal and professional growth opportunities. Freelancers can diversify their skills and develop a wide range of development tasks that suit their individual interests and needs. This helps to keep them engaged and motivated to keep learning and perfecting their craft. Finally, freelancing in the US provides a great work-life balance due to the freedom and flexibility it offers. The freedom to create your own schedule and work on projects that you are passionate about gives you the opportunity to take time off when you need it and still get paid, as well as allowing you to pursue hobbies and family activities outside of work hours. The US also provides more time with family, access to quality healthcare, and quality of life in general. Living in the US is also home to many major tourist destinations, making it possible to explore different areas without having to travel too far. All in all, freelancing in the US is an opportunity to create a great work-life balance while also making higher profits and developing a wide range of skills.

Freelancing in United States of America in 2024
  • Gigs

gigs
United States of America United States of America

Place your gigs Ad here and reach millions of our customers in United States of America and beyond. Sign Up and advertise on gigexchange today.

building a set stage piece
US United States Star john S

framing and drywall for a stage piece for an artist

Models Required
US Shem Creek Charleston Star Max U

Models (men & women) needed for one half day photo shoot

Photograph a sculpture at the Musee de Picardie
US United States Star Will S

Travel to Museum, take photos of the left side of the 1897 sculpture bust of Salem

record 6-8 video clips with my content
US jackson Star Emad S

record 6-8 video clips in person at my client's office in Jackson

Russian-English Translator Needed in Romania
US Posesti Ploiesti Star Jennifer G

Need Russian-English translator in northern Prahova county, Romania for 3 days

What are the benefits of Self-Employment in United States of America?

Freelance jobs are typically work paid by the hour, day or month. Whereas per task work, or per project outcome is usually paid on satisfactory completion of the work task, or tasks. These tasks are commonly referred to as freelance gigs.

The primary benefit of self-employment in the US is the ability to achieve a higher degree of financial independence. Self-employment offers flexibility and control over income potential, allowing an individual to determine the direction of their professional life without having to rely exclusively on their salaried employer. This level of financial freedom opens new possibilities for investments, savings, and other financial opportunities. For US freelancers specifically, there are a number of work opportunities and industries in which they can pursue. This includes positions in web design and development, graphic design, consulting and coaching, writing, and virtual assistant services, among many others. These positions often allow for flexible working hours and the ability to connect with clients from around the world. Additionally, there are numerous online platforms that help freelancers to acquire gigs and find clients, such as Upwork, Fiverr, gigexchange, Freelancer, and Guru. Self-employment also offers individuals the opportunity to build a professional reputation, explore various roles or industries, and follow their passions. Freelancers can also benefit from increased mobility, such as the ability to work from anywhere in the world or to travel and work at the same time, depending on the gig. Moreover, freelancers in the US can access a number of tax advantages, including deductions for certain expenses, the ability to deduct health insurance premiums, and the ability to save for retirement through a solo 401(k) plan. In order to access these benefits, freelancers must establish themselves as a valid business entity, such as an LLC, in the US. Overall, self-employment offers US freelancers a number of opportunities and benefits, ranging from increased financial freedom to tax deductions and increased mobility. With the right preparation and dedication, freelancers can harness these opportunities to build successful, rewarding businesses for themselves.

Freelancing in United States of America in 2024
  • Jobs

jobs
United States of America United States of America

Place your jobs Ad here and reach millions of our customers in United States of America and beyond. Sign Up and advertise on gigexchange today.

Food Delivery Drivers Urgently Wanted - New York
job.country New York

Are you an independent and reliable individual looking for a flexible opportunity in the bustling city of New York? We are looking for Freelance Food Delivery Drivers immediately.

Box Office Staffed Wanted
job.country Los Angeles

Are you looking for a part-time opportunity to be part of the exciting world of live events and entertainment in Los Angeles?

Freelance Musicians in HOT Demand
job.country Los Angelese

Are you a talented and passionate musician looking for an exciting opportunity in the vibrant city of Los Angeles?

Nurses - We Need You
job.country Chicago

Are you a compassionate and dedicated healthcare professional seeking a rewarding nursing position in the bustling city of Chicago?

Teacher
job.country New York

Are you a passionate and dedicated educator seeking a fulfilling teaching opportunity in the vibrant city of New York?

Find & Hire Freelancers in United States of America?

The rise of freelance work has accelerated the gig economy movement, especially the online marketplaces associated with the gig economy and Future of Work.

Freelance jobs are becoming increasingly popular and the US is home to many freelance professionals. Below is a list of the most in-demand and highest-paid freelance jobs and gigs in the US. 1. Web Developer - Web developers have the technical skills to design, develop, and implement websites for their clients, using web programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. Out of all the freelance jobs, web developer is the most demanding right now and pays an average of $50 to $200 per hour in the US. 2. Graphic Designer - Graphic designers use a blend of creative and technical skills to create visuals for advertisements, websites, books, magazines, logos, and more. The average hourly rate for graphic designers is between $40 to $120. 3. Copywriter - Copywriters use words to inform and persuade people. They create content for websites, brochures, advertising, magazines, and any other type of written material. Experienced copywriters can expect to earn an average of $30 to $300 per hour in the US. 4. Social Media Manager - Social media managers are responsible for managing a companys presence on social media networks. They create content, respond to customers, and measure the effectiveness of campaigns. The average hourly rate for a social media manager in the US is $30 to $200. 5. Video Editor - Video editors are responsible for taking footage, editing it, and creating a final video. They are expected to have an eye for detail and a creative mind. The average hourly rate for a video editor in the US is $50 to $150. 6. Content Writer - Content writers develop content for websites, blog posts, magazines, books, and other platforms. Experienced content writers can expect to earn an average of $25 to $100 per hour in the US. 7. Translator - Translators are expected to translate written material from one language to another. The average hourly rate for a translator in the US is $30 to $150. 8. SEO Specialist - SEO specialists have the technical skills and knowledge to optimize websites so that they appear higher in Google, Bing, and other search engine rankings. Experienced SEO specialists can expect to earn an average of $50 to $150 per hour in the US.

Freelancing in United States of America in 2024
  • Promote

promote
United States of America United States of America

Place your promote Ad here and reach millions of our customers in United States of America and beyond. Sign Up and advertise on gigexchange today.

Handyman
ad.country The Sausage Castle Astatula

We are looking for someone to provide inhouse handyman services for a content creation home.

Choosing The Best business trainer Coaching in Oklahoma
ad.country Edmond Edmond

Chris McIntire is an experienced Business Owner and Serial Entrepreneur dedicated to helping you build all 7 Gears of your business!

What are popular Freelancing roles in United States of America?

Marketing

  • Publicist
  • Digital Marketer
  • Social Media Marketer
  • Product Manager
  • Marketing Strategist
  • SEO Expert
  • Advertising Executive
  • Communications Expert
  • Media Executive
  • Journalist

Information Technology

  • Ecommerce Expert
  • Web Designer
  • Web Developer
  • Software Engineer
  • IT Consultant
  • Cyber Security Consultant
  • Cloud Architect
  • Big Data Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Project Manager

Creative

  • Content Creator
  • Copywriter
  • Writer
  • Creative Director
  • Art Director
  • Animator
  • Video Producer
  • Graphic Designer
  • UI/UX Designer
  • Photographer

Wondering what the process is to start freelancing in United States of America?

Identify and embrace your niche

Identify your current skillset and where your passion lies. Most freelancers are experienced professionals with numerous years of experience working professionally in a permanent position but looking to become self-employed and a master of their own destiny.

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Focus on your freelance skills strengths and weaknesses

Research the capabilities expected of a freelancer within your area of expertise and identify your strengths and weaknesses. This will help you with your personal development plan and billable pay rate.

Identify your freelance skills strengths and weaknesses in United States of America in 2024

Ensure you have all the appropriate equipment

Common checklist for freelancers include: Home Office: Comfortable office desk & chair. Printer/scanner. Mobile devices. Fast & reliable internet. Cloud products for storage. Software products to help you complete your work

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Create A Portfolio

Build a portfolio of your work you can showcase to prospective clients. This can be publicly viewable on the internet, or accessible on permission, depending on the nature of your work.

Create A Portfolio in United States of America in 2024

Getting Started - Finding the best Jobs & local or remote Clients in USA

Getting started begins with finding new clients. How can this be achieved? Where can freelancers find new customers? Start by going to dedicated meetups. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. Network, network, network! Update your promote profile on gigexchange.com. Use online freelancing platforms and apply for freelancing jobs and freelance gigs.

Freelancing Finding Jobs & the best Clients in United States of America in 2024

Try Freelancing Part-Time or as a Side Hustle

If you are just starting out and testing the water for freelancing. Then working part-time of as a side hustle is perfect for understanding whether you enjoy freelancing. What kind of rate to charge and how successful you are. Freelancing on the side can be completed on evenings and weekends, outside of your primary job and it will also help bring in some extra income too.

Try Freelancing Part-Time or as a Side Hustle in United States of America in 2024

Find The Right Freelance Platform in United States of America

With so many freelancer websites and freelancing apps to choose from, we have listed the top 5 Freelance Platforms in United States of America below:

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Top 5 Freelance Platforms in United States of America


Upwork

Upwork

  • Type: Marketing, Software, Design
  • Pros: Secure pay, Large market share
  • Cons: Lengthy selection process, High service fees (client & worker)

Upwork is the largest freelancing website that connects clients and freelancers all across the world.

The web app provides a large range of skills and categories, from web and software development to marketing and accounting.

Clients and freelancers have multiple ways to connect – clients can choose to advertise a job and hire talent or buy a predefined service from the project catalog.

Whereas freelancers can access the job board and offer a service to sell.

To get started as a freelancer on Upwork, first create a profile.

Upwork has a sliding commission scale, rewarding the more you work, the less money you pay. The commission fee starts from 20% for the first bill of $500 and gradually reduces as you receive more money.

Payment withdrawal, includes direct transfer, PayPal, and wire transfer.


Freelancer

Freelancer

  • Type: Language, Tech, Marketing
  • Pros: Progress tracker, Live chat, Good customer support
  • Cons: Bad UI/UX, Spam freelancers, Fake clients

Freelancer.com is one of the original freelance websites where service provider professionals and international organisations unite to complete various projects. Registering as a freelancer requires you to fill out a short form. Provide detailed information, including your skills, educational background, and work experience.

Freelancers can apply for projects to gain work. In addition to projects, there are also contests, such as visual or design work. Freelancers can gain from these contests by earning money along with reviews on their profiles.

Every freelancer will receive full payment after completing a job. However, the platform takes 10% of your total earnings for contests and fixed projects. Payment is via PayPal or wire transfer for withdrawal.


Fiverr

Fiverr

  • Type: Marketing, Web development, Social media
  • Pros: Popular site with large number of customers, Free registration
  • Cons: High commission charge, Long payment process

Fiverr is a freelance platform connecting freelancers and business owners requiring expert on demand talent for services in various digital projects, including website design, copywriting, and sales lead generation.

This website provides a slick process for freelancers and business owners to collaborate. Sellers can sign up for free, list their gigs, and set their own prices. Whereas, buyers can easily browse through different work categories to purchase. Whenever a buyer purchases a gig, the app immediately charges their account and places the money on hold. The platform pay proicess will then take a commission fee and send freelancers 80% of the offered price.

Depending on each freelancer’s seller level, it can take up to 14 days to withdraw their earnings. There are multiple options to withdraw the payments, such as debit card, PayPal, and wire transfer.


Guru

Guru

  • Type: Marketing, Tech, Admin
  • Pros: Secure payment, Customized job listings, Free membership
  • Cons: Potential fake clients

Guru is an international freelancer marketplace. Companies can hire professionals with various skills, such as software engineers, web designers, and digital marketing freelancers. This freelance platform is easy to browse freelance job listings and submit applications to clients. Start by signing up and building your freelance profile. The app will provide job recommendations based on your defined skills and experience.

Freelancers can bid for different projects and provide a fixed price for each. Freelancers can receive pay in various manners, including PayPal and wire transfer. More importantly, the site ensures freelancers get paid timely with SafePay protection.Every freelancer that signs up on this freelance website gets a free basic membership. This can be upgraded to paid membership plans with more features to benefit the freelancer.


gigexchange

gigexchange

  • Type: Creative, Media, Technology, Marketing, Software, Security
  • Pros: Secure pay, Push notifications, Live private chat, Free membership, Low commission, Identity verified freelancers only
  • Cons: Still in growth phase

Gigexchange is a Global Future of Work marketplace for freelancers to connect with businesses for work. Gigexchange allows freelancers to complete freelance gigs (specific work tasks and outcomes - with payment after the work is completed), freelance jobs (time based work - typically short term contracts which are arranged off platform). Freelancers may also volunteer their valuable services free of charge via the Volunteer service.

Registration is quick and simple, completing a skills and experience fields for its AI/ML function. Registering for Freelance Gigs via the Gig Worker section requires Identity verification prior. This is quick and simple, providing a few ID documents to become identity validated, building trust in the marketplace.

The commission rates for freelance gigs is the lowest of all freelance apps, at just 5%. For freelance jobs there is no commission for finding work.

There are no subscription fees or limits on the number of applications for jobs or gigs.

Gigexchange operates across 39 countries, allowing freelancers to connect with local businesses and remote, or work from home freelance work.

The platform works as a progressive web app (PWA) which means both buyers and sellers can use the standard website or mobile app to complete work services.

The platform supports VISA & Mastercard debit & credit cards. Payment withdrawal for freelancers is via Stripe and typically takes 5-14 days from gig completion.

Building your personal Brand & Online Platform Reputation

As you gain more customers, your reputation will grow. This will allow you to acquire new customers by both word of mouth referrals and via freelance platform ratings and testimonials.

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Charge the Right Price & Rates $$$$$$

As your reputation and experience/expertise develops, so will your pricings. Periodically review your rates to ensure they are both fair and at market rate internationally and in United States of America

Managing multiple freelance jobs and clients

A key skill being a freelancer is managing and juggling multiple clients and projects simultaneously, along with maintaining a pipeline of new work when your schedule permits. This requires great personal organization skills and planning.

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Deliver Beyond Expectations

The first rule of conducting great work is understanding the requirements and outcomes expected of you. The second rule is completing over and beyond this. This will result in repeat work and referrals, allowing you to grow your freelance business effectively.

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Stay on top of the admin

Self-employment involves much more administrative work than being a permanent employee. There are various tasks requiring constant attention throughout the months and years. The major administrative work includes:

Managing Freelancing Admin in United States of America in 2024

Managing Freelancing Financials

We all love making money, but we also need to stay on top of our revenue, accounting and taxes. Some great online products to help with this include:

Managing Freelancing Financials in United States of America in 2024

Never Forget to Pay your Taxes

Keeping the taxman happy is critical to running a successful business. Stash away 30-40%+ of each paycheck for taxes. Pay quarterly taxes. Save every receipt and research applicable expenses. Hire an accountant or bookkeeper if this is not your strength.

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Personal Development

Staying an expert in your specialisation is key to your success as a freelancer in United States of America. Allocating time and resources to continuously improve and upskill is essential.

Freelancers use various tools and online training platform to do so, such as:

Online training courses

Writing

Design

Marketing

Business Administration

Freelancing Information

Software & Data Tools

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Join freelance communities

Join as many Social Media groups for freelancers in United States of America to help you build your network.

Join local Slack groups of interest to you. Sign up to meetup.com and search for freelance meetups in United States of America and become an active member.

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

How to Be a Successful Freelancer

Start with understanding why you want to freelance? Then use our guide to ensure you give yourself the best chance of creating a successful freelance career.

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is. Can you afford to freelance? Starting out is the hardest part, there will be periods of no, or little income coming in. Do you have a financial contingency plan? If so, how long for. If the period of time is short, perhaps begin with freelancing as a side hustle on gigexchange.com

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Ask yourself: Is Freelancing for Me?

If you dont try it, you will perhaps never know. But plan and prepare as much as possible prior to jumping in, to ensure you understand the risks and rewards of freelancing in United States of America.

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is. Can you afford to freelance? Starting out is the hardest part, there will be periods of no, or little income coming in. Do you have a financial contingency plan? If so, how long for. If the period of time is short, perhaps begin with freelancing as a side hustle on gigexchange.com

Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

What are the Pros and Cons of Freelancing?

Advantages of freelancing

  • You’re your own boss
  • You set your own rate and select which freelance gigs and jobs you work
  • You have a better work-life balance by working when and where you want
  • You could pay less in taxes if managed well

Disadvantages of Freelancing

  • You’re not your own boss
  • You have to manage your own benefits, taxes, and accounting
  • If you don’t work, you don’t make money. No sick leave in freelancing
  • No job security
Freelancing a Job in United States of America in 2024

Find the Best Freelance Jobs in USA in 2024

Search for the Best Freelance Jobs Portals in in United States of America to begin and grow your freelance career.

Best United States Job Website Name
United States Job Board Pricing
Free + paid per click ($0.10 to $5 per click)
Free & paid deals ranging from $16 per Job Ad in the USA or from $299 monthly subscription
FREE Job Advertising in the USA
$219+
Previously $495 per job. New pay per click model sets daily maximum rate. In summary, expensive and mostly for larger companies with big budgets

Which Cities & Regions can I find Freelance Jobs & Freelance Gigs in United States of America?

Need to find a freelance job near me in in United States of America? Check out local freelance jobs near you.

Additional Freelance Information in United States of America

We have collated some additional useful Freelancing information available online in 2024 so you can gain extra knowledge, resources and potential new Freelancing job opportunities, or understand how Freelance Job Seeking can work for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are popular freelance jobs in 2022 arrow-right
  • Writing
  • Content Creation
  • Software development
  • Graphic design
  • Copywriter
  • Software engineer/web developer
  • Digital marketing consultant
  • Social media manager
  • SEO specialist
  • Media buyer
  • Photographer/videographer
  • Web designer
  • JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. Web development is still one of the most in-demand jobs in the freelancing markets
  • Web App Development
  • WordPress Design & Development
  • Project Management
  • Cloud Computing
  • Data Science & Analysis
  • Administrative Assistance
  • Consulting
  • Photography & Videography
  • Social Media Manager & Community Manager
  • Virtual Assistant
How is remote work and work from home/work from anywhere benefiting freelancers? arrow-right

Freelancers are independent contractors who either work on a retainer or on a project-by-project basis. Freelancers set their own work hours, decide where they want to perform their tasks, and usually only provide a service or product for a predetermined fee — with no company benefits or services included. Remote working, or working from home (or working from anywhere) has simply increased the work opportunities for both businesses hire remote talent and freelancers having an increased pool of clients. Freelancers can conduct all work remotely, without the need for being near the business headquarters, or having to go into the office.

Where can I find freelance work as a side hustle? arrow-right
  • Upwork
  • gigexchange
  • Taskrabbit
  • Wonolo
  • Upshift
  • Jobble
  • Fiverr
Is freelancing worth it? arrow-right
Absolutely Yes! If you are a highly skilled individual who has a passion for the work you complete. Are great at what you do. Enjoy diverse and busy work environments. Love juggling multiple tasks and projects at once. Enjoy meeting new people and being paid for your value. Enjoys working remote and loves being your own boss. Then yes, freelancing is worth it!
What is the difference between a freelancer and a digital nomad? arrow-right
Both a freelancer and contractor are self-employed experts. The main difference is that digital nomads are freelancers who love to work and travel with no set ‘home’. Digital nomads are individuals who are location transient but use modern technologies to work remotely whilst living a nomadic lifestyle.
How is the gig economy impacting freelancers? arrow-right
Businesses benefit from the gig economy by gaining access to highly skilled on-demand talent to complete defined project work, or set tasks. Gig workers, also known as contingent or contract workers or freelancers, benefit from the flexibility and access to new opportunities that might not have been available before. Platforms such as gigexchange.com are providing local and remote freelance gigs and freelance jobs to freelancers globally.
What are the benefits of hiring freelancers arrow-right
  • Flexibility and Specialised Expertise. On-demand talent is now available to businesses for specific work tasks (freelance gigs) or specialised freelance jobs (short contracts) that cant be fulfilled by inhouse employees in a flexible manner
  • Reduced Risk. Hiring freelancers on a short term basis reduces the risks on bad hires through the recruitment process
  • Savings. Pay for talent when only you need it.
  • High Quality of Work. Freelancers are experts in their trade. Hire with confidence when using online platforms by hiring trusted and reputable experts only.
  • Worldwide Reach. Remote working means gain access to talent working from anywhere in the world
What is the difference between a freelancer and a contractor? arrow-right
Both a freelancer and contractor are self-employed workers. Freelancers are more typically associated with creative and media industries. Contractors are terms used to describe independent employees in I.T. or civil construction.
What is the difference between a freelancer and an employee? arrow-right

Freelancers are self-employed individuals who are employed by businesses on short-term projects, or dedicated tasks to complete. They receive no employee benefits from their clients and pay and manage their own taxes. Freelancers are their own boss, setting their own hours and work lifestyle. They typically juggle multiple clients simultaneously.

Freelancers determine their own rates, which may be hourly or on a per-project basis. They typically work remotely, though may occasionally meet with clients in person or visit the office for meetings.

Employees permanently work for a single employer and are paid fixed remuneration in the form of an annual salary.

The employer provides work benefits (such as holiday time, sick leave, healthcare, and pension plans) and is also responsible for managing their taxes and contributions. Employees typically have a contract that defines their expected work hours, role, and the terms of their employment. Since they are a permanent part of the company, employees are usually required to serve a notice period before leaving the company. They also enjoy more job security than freelancers or contractors. Businesses can give notice to freelancers much quicker and easier than permanent employees.

Are self-employed freelancers the Future of Work? arrow-right

Freelancing and self-employment has been trending up for many years. As of 2022, the freelancing industry is growing three times faster than the traditional workforce. And statistics predict by 2027, the majority of the US workforce will be freelancing.

As many as 64 percent of freelancers find their work online on platforms such as gigexchange.com, and most now no longer require a freelancer to be physically on site. For remote based freelancers and digital nomads, this means their location is no longer an inhibitor to work. The digital economy is fueling the freelancing industry growth.

How to on-board remote freelancers? arrow-right
  • Have an on-boarding process & checklist pre-defined
  • Ensure all appropriate access to software tools and products and user accounts are setup prior to day 1
  • Welcome employees personally immediately on day 1 via an approved business digital communications channel such as teams or slack
  • Use communications technology to build a culture of immediacy, collaboration and camaraderie
  • Set clear expectations before day one: pre-boarding
  • Allocate a remote buddy or mentor
  • Regularly follow up and pulse check with remote freelancer to ensure they are happy, engaged, understand their roles & responsibilities and not blocked from working
Whats the difference between a freelance job and freelance gig? arrow-right

A freelance job is a standard work contract for a set period of time. Typically 3-6 months. These jobs are paid by the hourly or daily rate. Freelancers usually invoice on a weekly or monthly basis for standard freelance jobs.

Freelance gigs are work assignments with explicit scope of works and expected outcomes. Freelance gigs are typically paid out once the work has been completed to the customers satisfaction.

Is the Future of Work freelancing? arrow-right
The world of work is slowly drifting away from long term (or permanent) work engagements. Moving to a more on-demand model, where businesses onboard specialised experts for specific tasks or projects. Freelancers are well placed to take advantage of the movement and experienced in the risks and benefits of freelance work and self employment.

See here for more Help & Support questions