As the world continues to navigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more people are turning to freelancing as a way to make a living. In fact, according to a recent study by Upwork, the number of freelancers in the United States alone is expected to reach 86.5 million by 2027. With the rise in demand for freelance work, there are many freelance marketplaces that have emerged to help connect freelancers with potential clients.

In this article, we will be discussing the top 10 freelance marketplaces to find work in 2023. We will be comparing and contrasting these marketplaces based on various factors such as ease of use, pricing, and overall quality of work. By the end of this article, you should have a good understanding of which freelance marketplace is best suited for your needs.

1. Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest and most popular freelance marketplaces in the world. It boasts a user base of over 18 million freelancers and 5 million clients. Upwork offers a wide range of freelance services including web development, graphic design, and writing. One of the key features of Upwork is the ability to set up a profile that showcases your skills and experience, making it easier for clients to find you.

Pricing on Upwork varies based on the type of service you are offering and the experience level of the freelancer. Upwork charges a 20% commission fee for the first $500 you earn with a client, after which the commission fee drops to 10%. While the commission fee may seem steep, Upwork's large user base and wide range of services make it a great platform for finding freelance work.

2. Freelancer

Freelancer is another popular freelance marketplace that connects freelancers with clients. It offers a wide range of services including programming, writing, and design. Freelancer also allows freelancers to bid on projects posted by clients, which can be a great way to find work.

Pricing on Freelancer varies based on the type of service you are offering and the experience level of the freelancer. Freelancer charges a 10% commission fee for all projects, which is lower than Upwork's commission fee. However, Freelancer's user base is smaller than Upwork's, which may make it harder to find work.

3. Fiverr

Fiverr is a freelance marketplace that specializes in smaller projects and services. It offers a wide range of services including writing, design, and marketing. Fiverr allows freelancers to create "gigs," which are essentially services that you offer to clients.

Pricing on Fiverr usually varies based on the service you are offering. Fiverr takes a 20% commission fee on all gigs, which is higher than both Upwork and Freelancer. However, Fiverr's user base is growing rapidly, and the platform is becoming increasingly popular for finding smaller, one-off projects.

4. PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHour is a UK-based freelance marketplace that offers a wide range of services including web development, design, and writing. PeoplePerHour allows freelancers to create a profile and showcase their skills, making it easier for clients to find them.

Pricing on PeoplePerHour normally varies based on the service you are offering. PeoplePerHour charges a 20% commission fee for the first $500 you earn with a client, after which the commission fee drops to 5%. While PeoplePerHour's commission fee may be higher than other freelance marketplaces, it has a strong user base in the UK and Europe, making it a great platform for finding work in those regions.

5. Guru

Guru is a freelance marketplace that offers a wide range of services including web development, design, and writing. One of the standout features of Guru is its project management tools, which can help freelancers and clients stay organized throughout the project.

Pricing on Guru is based on the service you are offering and the experience level of the freelancer. Guru charges a 9% commission fee for all projects, which is lower than Upwork and PeoplePerHour. Additionally, Guru's user base is growing rapidly, making it a great platform for finding work in a variety of industries.

6. Toptal

Toptal is a freelance marketplace that specializes in connecting top-tier freelancers with clients. Toptal's selection process is rigorous, with only 3% of applicants being accepted into the platform. This means that clients who hire through Toptal can expect to work with highly skilled and experienced freelancers.

Pricing on Toptal varies based on the service you are offering and the experience level of the freelancer. Toptal charges a flat fee based on the project, rather than a commission fee. While Toptal may be more expensive than other freelance marketplaces, clients can be assured that they are working with top-tier talent.

7. 99designs

99designs is a freelance marketplace that specializes in design work. It offers a wide range of design services including logo design, web design, and packaging design. One of the unique features of 99designs is its design contest model, which allows clients to receive multiple design submissions and choose the one they like best.

Pricing on 99designs varies based on the service you are offering. 99designs charges a platform fee for its design contests, which varies based on the size of the contest. While 99designs may not be suitable for freelancers who specialize in non-design work, it is a great platform for designers who want to showcase their skills and work on a variety of projects.

8. SimplyHired

SimplyHired is a freelance marketplace that offers a wide range of services including writing, design, and programming. One of the standout features of SimplyHired is its job board, which lists a wide range of freelance and full-time job opportunities.

Pricing on SimplyHired varies based on the service you are offering. SimplyHired does not charge a commission fee, but it may charge a fee for job postings. While SimplyHired may not be as well-known as other freelance marketplaces, its job board can be a great resource for freelancers looking for work.

9. TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is a freelance marketplace that specializes in connecting clients with freelancers for one-off tasks and errands. Its services range from home cleaning and assembly to handyman work and personal shopping.

Pricing on TaskRabbit varies based on the task and location. TaskRabbit charges a commission fee for all tasks, which varies based on the task price. While TaskRabbit may not be suitable for freelancers who specialize in office work or programming, it is a great platform for freelancers who want to work on a variety of one-off tasks.

10. Nexxt

Nexxt is a freelance marketplace that offers a wide range of services including writing, design, and marketing. One of the standout features of Nexxt is its focus on matching freelancers with job opportunities that align with their skills and experience.

Pricing on Nexxt varies based on the service you are offering. Nexxt charges a subscription fee for its services, which varies based on the subscription plan. While Nexxt may not be as well-known as other freelance marketplaces, it is a great platform for freelancers who want to receive targeted job opportunities.

Which Freelance Marketplace Is Right for You?

When it comes to choosing a freelance marketplace, there are many factors to consider. Your choice may depend on your skill set, your experience level, and the type of work you are looking for. Additionally, you'll want to consider the pricing model and commission fees of each platform.

In the end, the best freelance marketplace for you will depend on your unique needs and preferences. With so many great options out there, you're sure to find a platform that works for you.

Conclusion

As the world of work continues to shift towards a more flexible and remote model, freelance marketplaces are becoming increasingly important. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or just getting started, these platforms offer a wide range of job opportunities and a chance to build your skills and portfolio.

In this article, we've highlighted 10 of the best freelance marketplaces that are like Upwork. From Fiverr to Nexxt, each of these platforms offers a unique set of features and benefits. By exploring your options and finding the right platform for you, you can take your freelance career to the next level.

Thank you for reading!