Freelance Economy Thrives Amid Economic Shifts in Major U.S. Cities
NEW YORK, Dec. 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A recent report by Fiverr International Ltd. (NYSE: FVRR) reveals a significant rise in the freelance workforce across America's top 30 markets. The findings suggest that shifts in the economy are influencing where and how independent professionals operate, with cities such as Las Vegas and Nashville leading in earnings.
Key Findings from the Freelancer Economic Impact Report
Utilizing data from millions of tax returns and the U.S. Census Bureau's Non-Employer Statistics, the Freelancer Economic Impact Report, developed in collaboration with Illuminas, provides insights into the growth and earnings potential of freelancers from 2019 to 2024. Among the report's notable findings:
- Orlando and Miami led the pack with a 32% increase in the number of freelancers.
- Average earnings for some U.S. cities are striking; Las Vegas freelancers earned an average of $62,083, followed closely by Nashville at $61,569.
- The overall revenue for freelancers in the U.S. has reached an estimated $319 billion, accounting for 1.1% of the country's GDP.
Freelancer Growth Trends in 2025
The report highlights a total estimated 6.9 million independent professionals in the U.S., with nearly 4 million freelancers concentrated in major metropolitan areas. This growth represents an annual increase of 4.3% across all markets. Noteworthy trends include:
- Miami and Orlando recorded exceptional revenue growth, at 71% and 62%, respectively.
- Freelancing hiring across the U.S. businesses surged by 260% in recent years.
- Independent professionals in the top 30 markets averaged earnings of $52,002, which is significantly higher than the U.S. overall average.
Average Earnings Highlight Freelance Opportunities
Freelancers in traditional entertainment cities such as Las Vegas and Nashville have proven that it is possible to make a sustainable living through independent work. Despite the smaller number of freelancers, Nashville ranks impressively high in creative revenue, coming in third behind Los Angeles and New York City.
According to Fiverr’s Head of Community, Michelle Baltrusitis, “Freelancing has become one of the most powerful forces reshaping the American workforce. People are no longer tied to a single company or city; they’re building flexible, fulfilling careers on their own terms.”
Freelancer Demographics and Market Categories
The report divides cities into several categories based on their freelance economies:
- Sunbelt Professional Havens: Includes Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, experiencing the fastest growth in independent professionals.
- Lone Star Boomtowns: Comprises Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, which rank high in both the number of freelancers and revenue.
- Rising Tech Hubs: Contains cities like Austin and Denver, which are emerging as significant markets for freelancers.
Moreover, the report highlights a notable earnings gap, with Las Vegas leading average earnings, while Minneapolis reported the lowest at $38,871.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The Freelancer Economic Impact Report underscores the changing landscape of work in the U.S., where freelancing offers flexibility and financial viability. As the economy evolves, Fiverr continues to Advocate for the gig economy, ensuring that professionals across sectors have access to the tools and resources necessary to thrive.
For further details, the complete report, along with an interactive map, can be accessed at Fiverr's official website.