This statistic shows the number of freelancers in the United States from 2017 to 2028. It is projected that in 2027, **** million people will be freelancing in the United States and will make up **** percent of the total U.S. workforce.

Introduction

Freelance Statistics: Freelancing has become an increasingly popular career choice, offering individuals the freedom to work on their terms, select their projects, and collaborate with clients from around the world. With advancements in technology and the widespread adoption of remote work, the freelance workforce has experienced significant growth in recent years.

Freelancers now span a wide range of industries, including technology, design, marketing, writing, and consulting, enabling them to work across diverse sectors and markets. As businesses seek specialised skills on demand, freelancing offers a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional employment models.

This shift is transforming the way people approach work, enabling greater autonomy and creativity while fostering innovation and new business opportunities. The growth of digital platforms designed to connect freelancers with clients has further supported this evolution, creating a more dynamic, global workforce.

According to a 2023 survey, 15 percent of Gen Z reported that they worked as freelancers. In comparison, around 45 percent were Millennials. The source adds that the rise of influencer culture and content is attracting younger people to freelance in higher numbers.

In 2023, there were an estimated 64 million people doing freelance work in the United States. This is an increase from 2014, when there were about 53 million people freelancing. The number of freelancers in the U.S. has been increasing since 2014.

The freelance platforms market, valued at $6.56 billion in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.66% from 2025 to 2033. This surge is driven by several key factors. The increasing preference for flexible work arrangements among both employers and freelancers is a primary driver. Businesses are increasingly outsourcing projects to reduce overhead costs and access specialized skills on demand. Simultaneously, freelancers are seeking greater autonomy and diverse work opportunities, leading to a substantial increase in platform usage. Technological advancements, including improved communication tools and project management software integrated within these platforms, are further streamlining workflows and enhancing user experiences. The expanding gig economy, coupled with the rise of remote work, fuels the demand for efficient platforms connecting freelancers with clients across diverse industries. Market segmentation reveals significant opportunities within various application sectors. Project management, sales and marketing, IT, web and graphic design, and other specialized applications all contribute substantially to the market's overall value. The end-user segment is broadly divided between employers seeking cost-effective solutions and freelancers aiming for lucrative and manageable work. North America currently holds a significant market share, but regions like Asia and Europe are expected to witness rapid growth, driven by increasing internet penetration and the adoption of digital work practices. Competitive analysis shows a landscape populated by established players like Upwork and Fiverr, alongside emerging platforms vying for market share. The sustained growth trajectory indicates a promising future for this market, with continued innovation and expansion across geographical and application segments. Freelance Platforms Market: A Comprehensive Analysis (2019-2033) This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the global freelance platforms market, projecting a robust growth trajectory fueled by technological advancements and evolving work dynamics. The study period spans from 2019 to 2033, with 2025 serving as the base and estimated year. The report offers invaluable insights for businesses, investors, and researchers seeking to understand this dynamic market valued at billions. Recent developments include: November 2023: Upwork launched a new set of AI apps and offers, along with new educational content, so that independent talent on Upwork can utilize the overall potential of generative AI to enhance their productivity as well as improve the overall quality of their work. The launch mainly includes partnerships with industry-leading providers of tools that include generative AI, involving Amazon, Adobe, ClickUp, and Miro, as well as training resources from Jasper, Coursera, and Udemy., August 2023: Fiverr International Ltd launched a brand-new business solutions suite for mid- and large-size businesses, the all-new Fiverr Pro, and the debut of its neural network-powered Fiverr Neo with an aim to tackle the complex task of matching talent with customers.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Need for Flexible Workforce, Increasing Demand for Specialized Skills. Potential restraints include: Slower Response Time of Underfloor Heating Systems than Radiator Systems. Notable trends are: Services Component to Witness Major Growth.

A 2023 survey found that around ** million workers in the U.S. are classified as independent workers - equating to ** percent of the U.S. workforce. Comparatively, around 100 million workers are classified as permanent workers.

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Freelance Platforms Market Size 2025-2029

The freelance platforms market size is forecast to increase by USD 24.97 billion, at a CAGR of 29.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing focus on cost effectiveness and the growing number of partnerships and acquisitions. Companies are recognizing the value of engaging freelance talent to reduce operational costs and increase agility. This trend is further fueled by the expanding pool of skilled freelancers, offering businesses access to a diverse range of expertise. However, this market landscape is not without challenges. The increasing reliance on digital platforms for work collaboration and data exchange heightens the risks related to data security and privacy.
The market is thriving, driven by digital transformation and a growing freelance talent pool. As more businesses adopt freelance platforms, they must address these concerns to maintain trust with their clients and protect sensitive information. Effective data security measures and transparent privacy policies are essential for companies seeking to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the market while mitigating potential risks.

What will be the Size of the Freelance Platforms Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The freelancing industry continues to evolve, presenting both opportunities and challenges for participants. Platform owners, recognizing the potential of this decentralized workforce, have been quick to expand their offerings, incorporating software development, data analysis, consulting, web design, and workforce management, among others. Freelancing rates vary significantly across different skill sets and customer segments, shaping the competitive landscape. Venture capital investments have fueled the growth of freelancing ecosystems, providing funding for innovative business models and solutions. Ethical considerations, such as fair pay and work conditions, are increasingly important in the freelancing industry. Customer segmentation and marketing strategies are essential for freelancers to target their services effectively. Freelancing trends include the rise of remote work and the increasing use of technology to streamline operations. Regulations and partnerships are shaping the future of the freelancing industry, offering new opportunities for growth.
Freelancing revenue models continue to evolve, with subscription-based and project-based models gaining popularity. Success stories abound in the freelancing industry, demonstrating the potential for high earnings and flexible work arrangements. The freelancing industry's impact on the economy is significant, with market share continuing to grow. Research and analysis are crucial for freelancers to stay informed about industry trends and best practices. Freelancing acquisitions and collaborations are creating new opportunities for growth and innovation. As the world embraces the metaverse and NFT marketplaces, the potential for freelance platforms to evolve and adapt is immense.

How is this Freelance Platforms Industry segmented?

The freelance platforms industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

End-user

  Freelancers
  Employers


Application

  Project management
  Sales and marketing
  IT
  Web and graphic design
  Others


Business Segment

  B2B platforms
  B2C platforms
  Hybrid models


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada
    Mexico


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    The Philippines


  Rest of World (ROW)

By End-user Insights

The freelancers segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The freelance marketplace continues to evolve, with freelancers offering on-demand services to businesses at competitive prices, driving market growth. In 2024, the freelancer segment is predicted to remain dominant, as more independent workers join the gig economy. These platforms facilitate connections between employers and freelancers, enabling businesses to find skilled candidates based on various criteria. Freelance consulting was once a niche offering, but it's increasingly pervasive, fueled by digital networking. Freelancers provide businesses with flexibility and cost savings, while offering them access to a vast talent pool. Freelance data privacy, invoicing, automation, business development, tax compliance, cybersecurity, revenue generation, augmented reality, and other services are essential for freelancers to thrive in this market.

Remote

According to a 2021 survey, around ** percent of employees in in the arts and design industry are freelancers. This compares to only ** percent of employees in the production and manufacturing industry. Freelancers here are broadly understood as individuals who engage in supplemental, temporary, project - or contract-based work.

Freelancer Management Software (FMS) Market Outlook

The global Freelancer Management Software (FMS) market size was valued at approximately USD 4.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 12.7 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 12.3% during the forecast period. The rapid growth of the gig economy and an increasing number of freelancers are pivotal growth factors contributing to this expansion. The advent of digital platforms and the rising importance of remote work have also driven the demand for efficient freelancer management solutions.

The increasing prevalence of remote and freelance work has been a significant growth driver for the FMS market. With organizations prioritizing flexible work arrangements to attract top talent, the need to manage a diverse and geographically dispersed workforce has become essential. This paradigm shift has amplified the demand for integrated platforms that can streamline onboarding, project management, payment processing, and compliance tracking. Consequently, businesses across various sectors are adopting FMS solutions to enhance productivity, reduce operational costs, and improve talent acquisition and retention.

Another vital growth factor is the technological advancements in cloud computing and AI integration. Modern FMS platforms are increasingly incorporating AI and machine learning to offer predictive analytics, automated task management, and enhanced user experiences. These technologies enable organizations to make data-driven decisions, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall efficiency. Furthermore, the scalability and flexibility provided by cloud-based solutions are encouraging more businesses to transition from traditional on-premises systems to cloud-based FMS platforms, thereby fueling market growth.

The growing emphasis on data security and regulatory compliance is also propelling the FMS market forward. With the rise of remote work, ensuring data privacy and adhering to regional labor laws and tax regulations have become critical. FMS solutions equipped with robust security features and compliance tracking capabilities help businesses mitigate risks associated with data breaches and legal violations. Additionally, the integration of blockchain technology in some advanced FMS platforms enhances transparency and trust, further driving market adoption.

Freelance Platforms have become an integral part of the modern workforce ecosystem, providing a bridge between businesses and independent professionals. These platforms offer a wide array of services, from project bidding and talent matching to secure payment processing and performance tracking. As businesses increasingly rely on freelance talent to meet their dynamic project needs, the role of freelance platforms in facilitating these engagements becomes even more crucial. They not only streamline the hiring process but also ensure compliance with legal and financial regulations, making them indispensable tools for both freelancers and employers. The growth of these platforms is further fueled by advancements in technology, which enhance user experience and operational efficiency, thereby attracting a larger user base.

Regionally, North America is expected to dominate the Freelancer Management Software market owing to the high concentration of tech-savvy enterprises and a significant freelancer population. However, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the rapid digital transformation, increasing startup ecosystem, and the growing acceptance of freelancing as a viable career option. Moreover, favorable government policies and investments in digital infrastructure are likely to bolster market expansion in this region.

Component Analysis

When analyzing the Freelancer Management Software market by component, the two primary segments are software and services. The software segment comprises various solutions designed to manage different aspects of freelancer engagement, including project management, time tracking, invoicing, and communication tools. Services, on the other hand, encompass consulting, implementation, training, and support services provided by vendors to help organizations integrate and optimize their FMS solutions.

The software segment is the largest and fastest-growing component, driven by the increasing demand for comprehensive and user-friendly platforms. Businesses are seek

Croatia Employment: Crafts, Trade and Freelancers data was reported at 209,734.000 Person in Mar 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 207,079.000 Person for Feb 2025. Croatia Employment: Crafts, Trade and Freelancers data is updated monthly, averaging 213,581.500 Person from Oct 1999 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 296 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 275,743.000 Person in Jul 2008 and a record low of 179,009.000 Person in Jan 2018. Croatia Employment: Crafts, Trade and Freelancers data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Croatian Bureau of Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Croatia – Table HR.G013: Labour Force Statistics.

Freelance Platforms Market Report is Segmented by Component (Platform and Services), Application (Project Management, Sales and Marketing, IT and Software, Web and Graphic Design, and Other Applications), End-User (Employers, and Freelancers), Organization Size (Large Enterprises, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)), and Geography. The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

According to a 2021 analysis, 35 percent of freelancers had a Bachelor's degree in the United States. This is compared to 51 percent of freelancers who had a post-graduate degree in that same year.

The global market for freelancer website platforms is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for flexible work arrangements and the rise of the gig economy. The market, estimated at $50 billion in 2025, is projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated $150 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Businesses are increasingly leveraging freelance platforms to access specialized skills on demand, reducing overhead costs associated with full-time employment. Simultaneously, freelancers are seeking greater autonomy and diverse project opportunities, leading to a surge in platform usage. Technological advancements, including improved matching algorithms and secure payment systems, further enhance platform functionality and user experience, driving market growth. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established players like Upwork and Fiverr, and newer entrants offering niche services or innovative features. The market's segmentation reveals a diverse range of offerings catering to various freelance skill sets and business needs, from software development and design to writing and marketing. Regional variations in market penetration reflect the varying levels of digital adoption and economic development across different geographic areas, with North America and Europe currently dominating the market. However, the market also faces challenges. Concerns regarding data security and platform transparency remain prominent, especially concerning freelancer payment protection and intellectual property rights. Competition is fierce, requiring platforms to continuously innovate and improve their services to attract and retain both freelancers and clients. Furthermore, regulatory uncertainties in various jurisdictions pose a potential constraint on the market's growth trajectory. To maintain momentum, platforms must prioritize building trust, improving user experience, and adapting to evolving regulatory landscapes. The successful platforms will be those that can effectively address these challenges while continuing to innovate and meet the changing demands of both businesses and independent workers.

This dataset was collected as part of a study investigating the gender pay gap in the freelancing sector of Bangladesh, with a particular focus on the online platform, Freelancer.com. The dataset consists of self-reported data from 210 randomly selected freelancers, who were among the top search results with good reviews on the platform. The data were collected directly from the profiles of these freelancers, and the link to each profile is included in the dataset. The dataset provides comprehensive information about each freelancer, including their gender, hourly payment rate, number of reviews, number of recommendations, job completion rate, budget adherence rate, on-time delivery rate, repeat hire rate, payment verification status, total work experience, location, membership type, monthly investment on Freelancer.com, type of work, type of education, institution name, degree name, education level, years of education, and preferred freelancer status. The purpose of this dataset is to provide insights into the relationship between these factors and the hourly earnings of freelancers, with a particular emphasis on exploring any disparities between male and female freelancers. The scope of the dataset extends to the digital gig economy in Bangladesh, and its nature is quantitative. This dataset is intended for use in further research aiming to understand the complexities of the gender pay gap in the freelancing sector, and to devise effective strategies to bridge this gap.

The Freelance Management Software Market is estimated to be valued at USD 4160.30 Million and is expected to reach USD 9243.94 Million by 2030, registering a CAGR of 10.49% during the forecast period. Factors Affecting Freelance Management Software Market Growth

More advantages and fewer restrictions are fueling the growth of the Freelance Management Software Market.

Freelancer works according to their time and for a specific time limit. Many people are choosing to work independently and part-time according to their convenience. Furthermore, they are not subject to any commercial constraints. As a result, the number of independent contractors has increased, assisting in the growth of the freelance management software market. Numerous services provided by freelance management, such as contract consolidated invoicing and billing, administration, and others contribute to its increased popularity inside enterprises and drive-up demand for the freelance management market over the forecast period. The substitution of vendor management systems with freelance management systems is also increasing as a result of faster and more customizable solutions which is also a reason to boost the market growth during the forecast period. Additionally, growing need for the Freelance management market in the global industry, market participants in the Freelance management platform market can anticipate promising future growth.

What are the factors hampering the growth of the Freelance Management Software Market?

Lack of commitment and security of company information are the factors that are creating hurdles for the growth of the Freelance Management Software Market.

To earn more and make the most of the time, most freelancers manage to do multiple jobs at a single time. This creates a problem for them to evaluate the timing required to invest in a specific project. Thus, it is one of the major hurdles for the freelancers’ management software market. So many projects at a time and inconsistent internet connection, and improper systems, impair project delivery timelines, which creates problems for freelancers. For instance, Additionally, the concern related to security as the freelance employees have access to the company systems and data and to sensitive information of the organization which has to be safe and secure. Thus, the company should be clear about the security guidelines and do regular checks for the safety of data. Introduction of Freelance Management Software

Freelance Management Software is a cloud-based workforce software that allows enterprises to manage independent contractors from a single platform. Organizations use this technology to identify qualified freelancers. All types of companies large, small, and medium are highly working with freelancers or another independent employee. Organizations that usually collaborate with one or many freelance employees and they need technical solutions to manage them. Employees get the choice of working independently and part-time and faster and more adaptable solutions are rising in replacing vendor management systems with freelance management systems are spiking the growth of the Freelance Management Software Market.

The rise of freelance work in the online platform economy (OPE) has received considerable media and policy attention in recent years, but freelance work is by no means a new phenomenon. In this paper, we draw on I.R.S. tax records to identify instances when workers begin doing online platform work versus other freelance/independent contractor “gig” work for firms. We find gig work occurs around major reductions in outside income, and document usage over the lifecycle. Our results provide suggestive evidence on motivations for entering into each type of work.

In 2024, there were estimated to be approximately **** million freelance workers in the United Kingdom, compared with **** million in 2022. The number of freelancers in the UK peaked in 2020, at **** million workers, growing from just **** million workers in 2008.

The gig economy, encompassing freelance work and on-demand services, is experiencing robust growth, driven by technological advancements, evolving work preferences, and a desire for flexible employment options. The market, estimated at $300 billion in 2025, is projected to achieve a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $1 trillion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors: the increasing adoption of digital platforms connecting businesses with independent contractors; a growing preference among workers for flexible schedules and autonomy; and the scalability these platforms offer businesses needing temporary or project-based assistance. Furthermore, the gig economy's diverse sectors, including transportation (DoorDash, Favor Delivery, Turo), home services (TaskRabbit, BellHops), professional services (Guru.com, Upwork, Fiverr), and pet care (Rover), contribute to its overall market strength.
However, challenges remain. Regulatory uncertainties surrounding worker classification and employment benefits pose significant hurdles. Competition among gig platforms is fierce, requiring constant innovation and adaptation to maintain market share. Fluctuations in the broader economy can also impact demand for gig services. Despite these restraints, the overall trajectory suggests a continued expansion of the gig economy, driven by ongoing technological advancements, evolving workforce demographics, and the increasing reliance of businesses on flexible talent pools. The major players, including TaskRabbit, Upwork, and Fiverr, are well-positioned to capitalize on this growth, provided they navigate the regulatory and competitive landscapes effectively. Successful strategies will likely involve investments in technology, focus on user experience, and proactive engagement with regulatory bodies.

Financial overview and grant giving statistics of Freelancers Union Inc

The freelance management platform market, currently valued at $920 million in 2025, is experiencing robust growth, projected to expand significantly over the next decade. A Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.8% indicates substantial market expansion, driven by several key factors. The increasing adoption of remote work models and the gig economy are primary contributors. Businesses are increasingly seeking efficient solutions to manage their freelance workforce, leading to a heightened demand for platforms offering streamlined project management, communication tools, payment processing, and compliance features. Furthermore, advancements in AI and automation within these platforms are enhancing efficiency and improving the overall freelancer experience, further fueling market growth. Competition is intensifying among established players like Upwork Enterprise and Field Nation and emerging platforms focusing on niche functionalities. This competition fosters innovation and drives down costs, making these platforms more accessible to a broader range of businesses. While potential restraints like data security concerns and the need for robust platform integration exist, the overall market outlook remains positive, driven by the accelerating trend towards flexible work arrangements. The forecast period (2025-2033) suggests a considerable increase in market value, with projections exceeding $2.5 billion by 2033. This growth will be influenced by several factors including the continued rise of the gig economy and increasing sophistication of freelance management software. Geographic expansion will also play a crucial role. While specific regional data is currently unavailable, it’s reasonable to expect significant growth in regions like North America and Europe, followed by expanding penetration in emerging markets in Asia and Latin America. Key success factors for companies within this sector will hinge on effectively addressing user needs, providing seamless integration with existing business systems, enhancing data security measures, and continuing to innovate features that simplify the management of freelance projects and teams.