Freelance marketplaces are one of the most popular ways to find work and hire help. With so many platforms to choose from, it can be difficult to know which ones will be right for you. To make things easier, I’ve created a list of the 10 best freelance marketplaces that offer everything freelancers need to find good-paying jobs.
The 10 best freelance marketplaces are:
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- PeoplePerHour
- Guru
- Freelancer
- TaskRabbit
- Toptal
- FlexJobs
- SimplyHired
- 99designs
Below, I go into more detail about each of these platforms, from the perspective of both buyers and freelancers. But first, let’s quickly compare them to see how they differ.
The Best Freelance Marketplaces Compared
| Freelance Marketplace | Year Founded | Number of Users | Fees for Freelancers | Fees for Buyers | Acceptance Difficulty |
| Upwork | 2013 | 18 million | 10% | 5% | Moderate |
| Fiverr | 2010 | 4.2+ million | 20% | 5.5% | Easy |
| PeoplePerHour | 2007 | 1.4+ million | 3.5% – 20% | 10% + £0.60 | Easy |
| Guru | 1998 | 1.5+ million | 5% – 9% | 2.9% | Easy |
| Freelancer | 2009 | 60 million | 10% | 3% – 10% | Moderate |
| TaskRabbit | 2008 | 140,000+ | No fees | Varies | Moderate |
| Toptal | 2010 | Not disclosed | No fees | Varies | Difficult |
| FlexJobs | 2007 | Not disclosed | $9.95/wk | $24.95/mo | $59.95/yr | $399/mo – $2,999/yr | Easy |
| SimplyHired | 2003 | 25+ million | None | Varies | Easy |
| 99designs | 2008 | 1.4+ million | 5% – 15% | 5% | Moderate |
Note: These platforms aren’t always transparent with their number of users, and sometimes the only numbers available are monthly website users, rather than active clients and freelancers. However, the most important numbers are usually the fees!
The 10 Best Freelance Marketplaces
1. Upwork
Upwork is one of the most popular and successful freelance marketplaces in the world. It’s a great platform for freelancers looking to find work and for employers who need help on specific tasks or projects. With millions of users, Upwork offers a wide range of services across many different fields, making it an ideal place to look for talent or land your next job.
You can quickly find professionals with relevant skills and experience by searching through millions of freelancer profiles. It’s not a specialized platform, so you can find services in all kinds of industries.
If you’re a freelancer, Upwork also offers free online training courses that can help you hone your skill set and increase your chances of landing jobs on the site. They also provide payment protection so that both parties feel secure when conducting business through their platform.
2. Fiverr
Fiverr is one of the most popular freelance websites on the internet, boasting millions of users and providing services in more than 150 countries. The platform allows freelancers to offer their services via ‘gigs.’ It also provides an easy-to-use interface that makes it simple for buyers to find and hire qualified professionals quickly and efficiently.
One of Fiverr’s standout features is its wide range of categories, which include everything from digital marketing to writing and translation services. This level of diversity allows freelancers to find work in almost any field they could imagine, and it means buyers can find freelancers for any project they need.
Fiverr offers a great way for businesses and individuals alike to get access to quality talent quickly and easily. With the huge selection of gigs across 500+ categories, advanced search tools, a secure payments system, and user friendly interface, it’s a top choice.
3. PeoplePerHour
PeoplePerHour is a leading freelance marketplace (primarily in the UK) that connects businesses with skilled professionals. It provides an easy-to-use platform for employers to find and hire experienced freelancers quickly and efficiently, while allowing freelancers to showcase their skills and services in order to attract potential clients.
With millions of users across numerous industries, PeoplePerHour is one of the top destinations for finding quality talent or landing your next job.
PeoplePerHour’s advanced search tools make it easy for buyers to locate the perfect freelancer for any project by filtering through seller profiles based on skill set, experience level, location, language proficiency and more.
PeoplePerHour is a great option if you’re looking for reliable contractors or want to find work quickly and easily. Their user friendly interface combined with their diverse selection of services makes them one of the best choices available today in this competitive market landscape. However, their fees for buyers are some of the highest in the industry.
4. Guru
Guru.com is a freelance marketplace that has been around since 1998 and it has gained a reputation for being a reliable and trustworthy platform for freelancers and clients alike. The platform offers a wide range of job categories, including programming, design, writing, and marketing, making it an excellent option for freelancers with different skill sets.
Guru.com also has a user-friendly interface, making it easy for both freelancers and clients to navigate the platform and find the right job or freelancer.
Guru.com also has a feature called WorkRooms, which provides a virtual workspace for freelancers and clients to collaborate on projects in real-time. This level of collaboration and communication can help freelancers deliver high-quality work and clients achieve their desired results.
The platform charges a low commission fee on completed projects, which means that freelancers get to keep more of their earnings. Clients can also choose from a range of payment options, including hourly or fixed-price contracts, depending on their budget and project requirements. Overall, Guru is a reliable and accessible platform for freelancers looking to build their careers and clients looking for top-quality talent.
5. Freelancer
Freelancer.com is one of the most popular and reputable freelance marketplaces in the world, and for good reason. It provides a wide range of job opportunities to freelancers of all skill levels, from entry-level to expert.
Freelancer.com also offers various tools and features that help freelancers showcase their skills, such as portfolios, skill tests, and certifications. This makes it an ideal platform for freelancers looking to build their careers and for clients looking for top-notch talent.
Freelancers are guaranteed payment for their work through the platform’s Milestone Payment system, which ensures that clients release payment only when the work is completed to their satisfaction. This eliminates the risk of non-payment or payment disputes, which is a common problem in the freelance industry.
Freelancer.com also offers a feature called “Freelancer Groups,” which allows users to create and join groups based on their interests or specialties. This is a great way for freelancers to network and find new clients.
The platform charges a relatively low commission fee on completed projects, which means that freelancers get to keep more of their earnings. Clients also benefit from competitive pricing. This makes it an affordable and accessible platform for clients and freelancers at all levels.
6. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is a unique freelance marketplace that focuses on local, on-demand services. The platform connects clients with skilled freelancers in their area for tasks such as cleaning, moving, handyman work, and more. TaskRabbit is a great option for freelancers who prefer working on short-term projects and enjoy providing hands-on services.
Clients benefit from the convenience and flexibility of being able to book a freelancer for a specific task at a time that works for them.
One of the standout features of TaskRabbit is its Trust & Safety program. All Taskers, as freelancers on the platform are called, undergo a rigorous vetting process that includes background checks. This ensures that clients can trust that they are getting a qualified and reliable freelancer for their task.
Clients can easily browse listings, book a Tasker, and pay for services all in one place. Taskers benefit from a streamlined booking system and clear communication with clients. TaskRabbit also provides a rating and review system, which allows clients to rate Taskers based on their performance, ensuring that only the best Taskers rise to the top.
Overall, TaskRabbit is a great freelance marketplace for those looking for in-person services and short-term projects. Its focus on local, trusted Taskers and its robust Trust & Safety program make it a reliable and secure platform for both clients and freelancers.
Check out our comparison of Fiverr and TaskRabbit for more detail on this marketplace.
7. Toptal
Toptal is a highly respected freelance marketplace that caters to businesses looking for top-quality talent in the tech industry. The platform offers a curated selection of freelance developers, designers, finance experts, and project managers who have undergone a rigorous screening process to ensure they meet Toptal’s high standards.
This makes Toptal an excellent option for businesses looking for skilled freelancers who can deliver complex projects to a high standard. They claim to only accept the top 3% of freelancers.
Their vetting process includes a rigorous screening process, technical interviews, and language and personality assessments. This ensures that only the best freelancers make it onto the platform, and clients can trust that they are getting access to top-quality talent. Toptal also provides a two-week trial period for clients to work with a freelancer before committing to a longer-term contract, giving clients the chance to ensure that the freelancer is the right fit for their project.
Toptal also offers a dedicated project management team to help clients and freelancers manage their projects from start to finish. This includes ensuring that projects are delivered on time and to a high standard, and that any issues or concerns are addressed promptly.
Toptal is a great freelance marketplace for businesses looking for top-quality talent. Its rigorous vetting process, dedicated project management team, and focus on delivering high-quality work make it a reliable and trustworthy platform for those that put an emphasis on quality.
8. FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a popular freelance marketplace that connects job seekers with flexible, remote, and freelance job opportunities. The platform offers a wide range of job categories, including freelance, part-time, and full-time roles, making it a great option for freelancers who are looking for a variety of work options. FlexJobs is also known for its high-quality job listings, with a focus on well-paying and reputable jobs that are screened for scams and fraudulent job listings.
The platform offers a secure and confidential job search experience, with job seekers’ personal information kept private and not shared with employers unless the job seeker chooses to apply for a job. FlexJobs also screens all job listings for scams and fraud, ensuring that job seekers are only presented with legitimate job opportunities.
FlexJobs is a great freelance marketplace for job seekers looking for flexible and remote job opportunities. Its commitment to job seeker privacy and security, high-quality job listings, and range of resources and tools make it a reliable and supportive platform for freelancers. However, it does utilize a subscription system for clients and freelancers rather than a fee structure, so it may not be suitable for everyone.
9. SimplyHired
SimplyHired is a freelance marketplace that offers a wide range of job opportunities in different categories, including freelance, part-time, and full-time roles. The platform features a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for freelancers to browse job listings and apply for jobs that match their skills and experience.
SimplyHired also offers a job search app that allows freelancers to search for jobs on the go, making it a convenient option for those who are always on the move. This makes it easy for freelancers to find jobs that match their preferences and requirements.
SimplyHired also offers a salary estimator tool that allows freelancers to estimate their potential earnings based on their skills and location, giving them a better idea of what they can expect to earn for different types of freelance work on the platform.
SimplyHired is a good choice for freelancers looking for a variety of job rather than one-off gigs. Its user-friendly interface, job search tools, and personalized job search experience make it a reliable and supportive platform for freelancers. Fees do vary a lot for clients though, so it may not be the best choice for all projects.
10. 99designs
99designs is a freelance marketplace that specializes in graphic design. The platform connects businesses with a global community of talented designers who can create logos, websites, packaging designs, and other visual assets.
One of the standout features of 99designs is its unique design contest model, where businesses can launch a design contest and receive multiple design submissions from different designers. This makes it easy for businesses to choose a design that matches their preferences and needs.
Another notable feature of 99designs is its focus on design quality and creativity. All designers on the platform undergo a rigorous screening process and are required to submit a portfolio of their best work. This ensures that businesses are working with top-quality designers who can create visually stunning and effective designs.
99designs also offers a 100% money-back guarantee for these contests, which gives businesses the confidence to work with designers on the platform without worrying about losing money.
99designs is the ideal freelance marketplace for businesses looking for high-quality graphic design work. Its unique design contest model, focus on design quality and creativity, and range of resources and tools make it a reliable and supportive platform for businesses and designers alike. 99designs also offers fairly competitive rates, for both freelancers and clients.
What Is The Largest Freelance Marketplace?
The largest freelance marketplace is Freelancer.com, with an estimated 60+ million employers and freelancers on the platform. Upwork is another very large freelance marketplace, with around 18 million users.
Just because they’re the biggest marketplaces, doesn’t mean they’re the right ones for you. If you’re looking for gig work, Fiverr is another one to consider. But if you’re very specialized, 99designs or Toptal may be better choices for you, while longer-term projects can be found on the likes of SimplyHired.
How To Choose A Freelance Marketplace
Research The Platform’s Reputation & Trustworthiness
Before signing up to a freelance marketplace, it is important to research its reputation and trustworthiness. Read reviews from previous users to get an idea of their experiences with the platform. Also check its security policies and whether it offers protection against fraud or scams.
Understand The Fees
Different platforms charge different fees for using their services. It is important to understand what fees are involved to make sure that you can afford them without incurring any unexpected costs. And if you’re a freelancer, you don’t want to lose out too much on the cut the platform takes as well.
Check For Extra Features
Many freelance marketplaces offer additional features such as job search tools or project management tools that can help make your freelancing journey smoother. Make sure to look out for such features when selecting a freelance marketplace.
Check The Accepted Payment Methods
Different platforms accept different payment methods, so it’s important to check which ones are supported before signing up. This will ensure that you are able to receive payments from clients quickly and securely.
Understand The Support Provided
Good customer service is essential to get assistance if you ever run into any issues while using a freelance marketplace, whether you’re a buyer or a seller. Check whether the platform provides adequate support or has an active community that can help you with any questions or problems you may have.
Look At Different Pricing Plans
Different pricing plans are offered by different platforms, so it is important to compare the available options and choose one that best fits your requirements.
Final Thoughts
There are lots of freelance marketplaces to choose from, and the best ones for sellers aren’t always the best ones for buyers. The list above contains the ones I recommend you check out first, but there may be others out there more suited to your needs or skills.
Chris is the creator of Freelance Ready. He originally started freelancing (on Fiverr) while at university, writing and editing website content. He created this website to share his freelancing experience and help others on their own self-employed journeys. He is now a freelance SEO consultant and content editor. You can learn more about Chris here.
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