10 US Freelance Platforms That Pay Better Than Upwork (2025 Update)

Are you tired of low rates, endless bidding, and feeling like just another number on Upwork? In 2025, the US freelance market is full of better options for skilled professionals who want higher pay, more respect, and real opportunities. New and established platforms now offer freelancers better rates, faster payments, and a chance to build lasting relationships with top US clients. If you want to earn more and work with clients who truly value your talent, this guide is your roadmap.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler—a platform that helps freelancers and professionals get hired through their work samples. In this article, I’ll walk you through the 10 US freelance platforms that pay better than Upwork in 2025. Beyond mastering in-demand skills, the key is presenting your work and value smartly. Your portfolio isn’t just a collection of projects—it’s your proof of skill, your credibility, and your shortcut to trust.

1. Toptal

Toptal is the gold standard for elite freelancers in the US. It connects the top 3% of global talent with high-profile companies, including Fortune 500 firms and leading startups. Toptal’s strict screening process ensures only the best get in, but once you’re accepted, you’ll have access to premium projects and clients who are willing to pay top dollar for quality work.

• Rigorous multi-step vetting process (portfolio review, skills tests, interviews)
• Projects in software development, design, finance, and project management
• Weekly direct payments with no bidding or undercutting
• Dedicated talent managers and exclusive networking events

Why it matters: You’ll work with serious clients who value expertise, enjoy less competition, and command higher rates for your specialized skills.

2. Contra

Contra is a modern, commission-free platform built for freelancers who want control over their careers. Unlike Upwork, Contra lets you keep 100% of your earnings and build direct, long-term relationships with US clients. The platform is especially popular with creatives, marketers, and tech professionals.

• No service fees or commissions—what you charge is what you keep
• Clean, user-friendly interface for managing contracts and payments
• Direct messaging, project proposals, and client collaboration tools
• Built-in portfolio builder and client review system

Why it matters: You get to keep more of your hard-earned money and work directly with clients, making every project more rewarding and sustainable.

3. Braintrust

Braintrust is a user-owned talent network that’s changing the way freelancers connect with US companies. Its blockchain-powered platform eliminates middlemen, so freelancers set their own rates and get paid what they deserve. Braintrust also gives freelancers a voice in how the platform operates.

• No freelancer fees—clients pay a platform fee instead
• Access to projects with major US brands in tech, design, and product management
• Transparent payments using blockchain for security and speed
• Community governance, voting rights, and token rewards for active members

Why it matters: You earn more, have a say in platform policies, and benefit from a transparent system that puts freelancers first.

4. MarketerHire

MarketerHire is the go-to platform for marketing professionals looking for high-paying US gigs. It matches top marketers with vetted US companies for roles in SEO, PPC, content, growth, and more. The platform handles all the client screening, so you only work with serious businesses.

• Focused on digital marketing, content, and growth roles
• Pre-vetted clients and freelancers for quality matches
• Fast project matching and weekly payments
• Ongoing support, resources, and a strong professional network

Why it matters: You spend less time chasing leads and more time working on impactful marketing projects with clients who value your expertise.

5. FlexJobs

FlexJobs is a trusted source for remote and flexible jobs with reputable US companies. Every job is hand-screened to eliminate scams and low-quality offers, so you only see legitimate opportunities. FlexJobs covers a wide range of industries, from tech to writing to customer service.

• Curated job listings for freelance, remote, part-time, and contract roles
• Advanced search filters for skills, pay, and location
• Resources for resume writing, interview prep, and career advice
• Option to receive job alerts and personalized recommendations

Why it matters: You save time and avoid scams, focusing your efforts on real, high-quality jobs that pay well and fit your lifestyle.

6. Working Not Working

Working Not Working is an invite-only network for creative professionals. It connects top US writers, designers, illustrators, and animators with leading brands and agencies. There’s no bidding—clients come to you based on your portfolio and reputation.

• Exclusive membership for top creatives (application or invite required)
• Projects with major brands like Apple, Google, and Nike
• Portfolio showcase, networking, and community features
• No commission fees; direct client relationships

Why it matters: You gain access to premium creative projects and clients who are willing to pay for originality and quality, all while building your reputation in a top-tier network.

7. CloudDevs

CloudDevs is built for developers and designers who want to work with fast-growing US startups. The platform rigorously vets talent and promises above-market rates, with a focus on remote-first, long-term projects.

• Strict vetting for developers and designers ensures high-quality talent
• Fast project matching with vetted US startups
• Weekly direct payments and clear contracts
• Opportunities for both short-term and ongoing remote work

Why it matters: You get matched quickly with top US tech companies, enjoy steady work, and earn rates that reflect your skills and experience.

8. SolidGigs

SolidGigs isn’t a job board—it’s a lead-generation service that sends you the best freelance gigs every week. Each lead is handpicked and tailored to your skills, so you spend less time searching and more time working.

• Weekly emails with curated, high-paying freelance leads
• Focus on US-based, quality gigs in various industries
• Pitch templates and resources to help you land jobs
• No bidding or low-ball offers—just the best opportunities

Why it matters: You save hours every week, get access to better-paying gigs, and can focus on growing your freelance business instead of endlessly scrolling job boards.

9. We Work Remotely

We Work Remotely is one of the largest remote job boards in the world, trusted by US companies and global brands. It features freelance, contract, and full-time roles, many of which pay above industry averages.

• Thousands of remote jobs across tech, design, writing, and more
• Focus on reputable US and international companies
• No bidding—apply directly to hiring companies
• Regular updates and a strong reputation for quality listings

Why it matters: You get access to a huge pool of remote jobs with respected employers, making it easier to find high-paying freelance work that fits your skills and schedule.

10. Fueler

Fueler is a portfolio platform that helps freelancers land jobs by showcasing assignment-based work samples. US companies use Fueler to find talent based on real results, not just profiles. By displaying your assignments, collecting client feedback, and using Fueler’s templates, you attract higher-paying US clients who want proof, not promises.

• Build assignment-based portfolios tailored for US clients and industries
• Use customizable templates for different services and project types
• Collect and display testimonials, results, and case studies
• Share your Fueler portfolio link in proposals and on other platforms

Why it matters: You can prove your skills with real assignments and feedback, making it much easier to win premium US clients who pay for results and reliability.

Final Thought

If you want to earn more and work with better US clients in 2025, it’s time to move beyond Upwork. These 10 platforms offer higher pay, more respect, and better opportunities for skilled freelancers. Build a strong, results-driven portfolio, stay active in your field, and use these platforms to unlock your best freelance gigs and grow your income.

FAQs

1. What freelance platforms pay more than Upwork for US freelancers?

Toptal, Contra, Braintrust, MarketerHire, and Fueler all offer higher rates and better opportunities than Upwork for US freelancers.

2. How do I get accepted to premium US freelance platforms?

Build a strong portfolio, highlight your results, and complete any required assessments or interviews to stand out.

3. Are there platforms with no commission fees for US freelancers?

Yes, Contra and Braintrust have no freelancer fees, letting you keep 100% of your earnings.

4. What is the best platform for creative US freelancers?

Working Not Working and Fueler are top choices for writers, designers, and creatives looking for premium US clients.

5. How can Fueler help me earn more as a US freelancer?

Fueler lets you showcase assignment-based work, collect testimonials, and connect with US clients who pay for proven results, not just profiles.

What is Fueler Portfolio?

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talents for their organization based on their proof of work.

You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the world use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

Sign up for free on Fueler or get in touch to learn more.