Why are workers opting for freelance/contract roles? Several reasons: autonomy and control over one’s career, diversification of income sources, the ability to choose meaningful projects, and often, the ability to work from anywhere (including as digital nomads). Freelancers also invest heavily in their own skill development – they have to stay competitive. That’s one reason they’re more likely to be proficient in emerging areas like AI, software, and green tech, as noted earlier. Interestingly, surveys show freelancers report higher satisfaction in many cases: about 78% of skilled freelancers are satisfied with their pay (versus 64% of traditional employees) and a large majority feel more energized and optimistic about their work and opportunities. In fact, 82% of freelancers say their work opportunities have grown in the last year, compared to 63% of full-time employees.
Figure: Despite economic headwinds, 82% of skilled freelancers say their work opportunities have increased since last year, versus only 63% of full-time employees who feel the same. Freelancers are leveraging new demand areas (like AI projects) and flexible work arrangements to access more opportunities. Source: Upwork Research Institute, 2025.
