Why US Companies Are Hiring 40% More Freelancers (And How to Get In)

Are you noticing more US companies searching for freelancers than ever before? You’re right—freelance hiring is exploding in America. In 2025, nearly half of all US businesses are turning to freelancers for critical projects, and the number of freelance opportunities is growing faster than traditional jobs. If you want to tap into this booming market, you need to understand why companies are making the shift and what you can do to get noticed and get hired.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler—a platform that helps freelancers and professionals get hired through their work samples. In this article, I’ll break down the real reasons behind the 40% surge in US freelance hiring and show you practical steps to join this movement. Beyond mastering your skills, the key is presenting your work smartly. Your portfolio isn’t just a collection of projects—it’s your proof of skill, your credibility, and your shortcut to trust.

The Freelance Boom: Why US Companies Are Hiring More Freelancers

The US freelance workforce has grown by 90% since 2020, and by 2027, more than half of the US labor force will be freelancing. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a fundamental shift in how American companies operate.

• Agility and Flexibility: Companies need to adapt quickly to changing markets, and freelancers can be brought on for urgent projects without the delays of traditional hiring.
• Specialized Skills on Demand: Businesses want access to top talent for niche projects—AI, design, SEO, and more—without hiring full-time staff.
• Cost Efficiency: Freelancers help companies save on benefits, office space, and long-term commitments, making budgets go further.
• Scalability: Startups and Fortune 500s alike scale faster by hiring freelancers for new launches, seasonal work, or rapid growth phases.
• Innovation and Fresh Ideas: Freelancers bring new perspectives and up-to-date skills, driving innovation and helping companies stay competitive.

Why it matters:

US companies are no longer treating freelancers as backup—they’re making them a core part of their strategy. This means more opportunities, higher pay, and a wider variety of gigs for skilled freelancers.

What Types of Freelancers Are in High Demand?

The most in-demand freelance roles in the US cover a wide range of industries, with creative, technical, and business skills all seeing rapid growth.

• Content Creation & Copywriting: Blogs, social media, video scripts, and brand storytelling
• Design & Creative: Graphic design, web design, animation, and illustration
• Tech & Development: Web development, app development, AI, and automation
• Marketing & SEO: Digital marketing, paid ads, SEO consulting, and brand strategy
• Consulting & Project Management: Business strategy, sales, operations, and remote team management

Why it matters:

If you have skills in these areas, you’re positioned for the best freelance projects and higher earning potential in the US market.

The Role of Freelance Platforms in 2025

Freelance platforms are now the main gateway for US companies to find talent. The freelance platform market is expected to reach $14.17 billion by 2029, with platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Fueler leading the way.

• Easy Access to Talent: Companies can quickly find and hire qualified freelancers for any project.
• Verified Portfolios: Assignment-based portfolios and client reviews help companies choose the right freelancer fast.
• Streamlined Payments: Secure payment systems and clear contracts protect both freelancers and clients.
• Diverse Talent Pools: Platforms connect companies with freelancers from all backgrounds, locations, and skill levels.

Why it matters:

Being active on top freelance platforms—and having a strong, assignment-based portfolio—dramatically increases your chances of getting hired by US companies.

How to Get In: Steps to Land US Freelance Gigs

With competition rising, you need to stand out. Here’s how to get started and win projects with US clients:

• Build an Assignment-Based Portfolio: Use Fueler to showcase real projects, results, and testimonials. US companies want proof, not just promises.
• Specialize in a Niche: Focus on one or two areas where you excel—specialists get more attention and higher rates.
• Stay Active on Multiple Platforms: Create profiles on LinkedIn, Upwork, and Fueler to maximize visibility.
• Network and Pitch Directly: Reach out to US companies, join freelance communities, and respond to job posts with personalized proposals.
• Keep Skills Updated: Take online courses, earn certifications, and stay on top of trends in your industry.

Why it matters:

These steps help you get noticed, build trust, and land high-value freelance jobs with US companies—even if you’re just starting out.

Why Fueler Is Your Secret Weapon

Fueler is built for the new era of freelance hiring. With assignment-based portfolios, you can show US companies exactly what you can do—no guesswork, just results.

• Create portfolios around real assignments and client feedback
• Use templates to organize your work by skill or industry
• Share your Fueler link in every proposal and job application
• Collect testimonials and track your best-performing projects

Why it matters:

Fueler helps you stand out in a crowded market, prove your value instantly, and win more projects with US companies looking for top freelance talent.

The Future: Freelancing as a Mainstream Career Path

Freelancing is now a mainstream career in the US, with more than 70 million Americans working freelance in 2025 and that number set to rise to 86.5 million by 2027. Even Fortune 500 companies and established businesses are using freelancers for core business needs.

• Freelancers earn an average of $99,230 per year in the US
• More than 90% of US workers would consider freelancing or independent contracting
• Freelancers now account for up to 12% of the global workforce
• The gig economy is growing three times faster than the traditional workforce

Why it matters:

Freelancing is not just a side hustle—it’s a path to financial independence, flexibility, and long-term career growth in the US.

Final Thought

US companies are hiring 40% more freelancers because they need flexibility, specialized skills, and innovative thinking to stay ahead. If you want to get in, focus on building a results-driven portfolio, specialize in high-demand skills, and use platforms like Fueler to present your best work. The freelance boom is just getting started—now is the perfect time to join in.

FAQs

1. Why are US companies hiring more freelancers in 2025?

They need flexibility, specialized skills, and cost-effective solutions to adapt quickly to market changes and drive innovation.

2. What freelance skills are most in demand in the US?

Content creation, design, web development, digital marketing, SEO, consulting, and project management are leading the market

3. How can I get noticed by US companies as a freelancer?

Build an assignment-based portfolio, specialize in a niche, stay active on multiple platforms, and network with US businesses.

4. Are freelance jobs in the US mostly remote?

Yes, most freelance jobs are now remote-first, giving you access to clients nationwide and globally.

5. How does Fueler help freelancers get hired by US companies?

Fueler lets you showcase assignment-based work, collect testimonials, and share your portfolio with US clients looking for real results

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.