As freelancers make up 46.6% of the global workforce, the gig economy continues to expand, offering countless opportunities for independent professionals. Whether you are a writer, designer, developer, or have other top-notch skills, freelancing websites provide platforms to connect with your potential clients from around the world.

However, working with international clients poses challenges in receiving payments. Many freelancers shy away from cross-border projects due to issues like high fees, slow transfers, or complex payment methods.

In this blog, we’ll explore the best freelance websites in 2025 and discuss how payment solutions are making it easier for freelancers to work with global clients without worrying about payment hurdles.

List of Top 10 Freelancing Sites

Here’s a curated list of the top 10 freelancing websites, along with details about their services and hourly rates. You can choose the platform that aligns best with your skills and earning potential.

Freelancing platforms allow workers to engage in diverse projects, with 50-53% of freelancers specializing in areas like programming, marketing, and IT, which helps them enhance their expertise.

1. Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest freelancing sites globally, connecting freelancers with clients across a wide range of industries. With millions of registered users, it offers an extensive marketplace for various skills, including programming, writing, web development, and design. This platform is known for its secure payment system and vast job listings.

Features of Upwork

1. Job Matches: Upwork uses an algorithm to match freelancers with relevant jobs, while also allowing manual searches.

2. Profiles & Proposals: Freelancers can create detailed profiles and submit personalized proposals for jobs.

3. Connects:Freelancers use Connects (Upwork’s currency) to apply for jobs, with extra Connects available for boosted proposals.

4. Communication Tools:Upwork provides messaging, voice/video calls, project details, and document organization for seamless client collaboration.

5. Skills Tests:Freelancers can take invitation-based skills tests, which are displayed on their profiles to showcase expertise.

6. Reports & Analytics:Track earnings, work history, client feedback, and timesheet reports via Upwork’s analytics dashboard.

7. Learning Resources:Access educational resources such as blog articles, tutorials, and webinars to enhance skills.

8. Customer Support:Upwork offers a help center, live chat, community forum, and ticket support for assistance.

Benefits of Upwork

1. It’s free to create an Upwork account and profile.
2. Search jobs by category, budget, project length, and more to find the best fit.
3. Projects are pre-funded into escrow, ensuring payment once work is approved.
4. Track time using the Upwork Desktop app to get paid for hours worked.
5. Gain recognition and stand out with badges for your skills and achievements.

PayGlocal is a one-stop solution for seamless cross-border payment with low fees, multi-currency support, and a unified dashboard to manage recurring payments. This helps freelancers working with global clients to easily manage payments without delays.

2. Fiverr

Fiverr operates on a gig-based model, where freelancers create service packages, known as gigs, that clients can purchase. It's a popular platform for creative and digital services like graphic design, writing, web development, and social media management. Fiverr allows freelancers to market specific skills in a concise, accessible way.

Features of Fiverr

1. Learning opportunities: Fiverr provides online courses to help freelancers enhance their skills.

2. Product & Software Marketplace:IT freelancers can sell Microsoft 365 and other software, earning commissions on each sale through Fiverr’s program.

3. Project Tracking: Freelancers can effectively monitor project progress, deadlines, and automate billing for ongoing projects.

4. Professions Catalog:Freelancers can showcase their skills and expertise, improving the matchmaking process with clients.

Benefits of Fiverr

1. Access to diverse gigs, ranging from business support to creative services.
2. User-friendly interface that caters to both beginners and experienced freelancers.
3. Connects freelancers with clients globally, expanding market opportunities.
4. Flexibility to set your own rates, with clients choosing services based on their budget.

3. Toptal

Toptal is a premium freelancing platform that connects businesses with the top 3% of freelance talent worldwide. The platform specializes in high-end services like software development, financial consulting, and interim management. Due to its stringent vetting process, Toptal is known for delivering top-tier freelancers to clients.

Features of Toptal

1. Rigorous screening process that selects only the top 3% of talent to join the platform.
2. Opportunity to work with high-quality clients and top-tier projects.
3. A dedicated talent advisor to assist in project matching and ensure the right fit.
4. Competitive compensation packages for freelancers.
5. Access to exclusive tools for professional growth, including financial support, coaching, and networking opportunities.
6. Secure payment methods to ensure reliable and safe transactions.

Benefits of Toptal

1. Guides you through each step of the hiring process.
2. Cancel within 2 weeks for a full refund (No-Risk Trial).
3. Candidates are hired within days instead of weeks.
4. Only the top 3% of freelancers make it onto the platform.

4. SimplyHired

SimplyHired platform allows you to showcase your professional skills and connect with clients actively seeking freelance talent. You'll appreciate the platform's transparent payment system, which provides fair and on-time payment for your work. With its growing client base and user-friendly interface, it provides an accessible entry point for both new freelancers and professionals looking to expand their client roster.

Features of SimplyHired

1. No Commission Fees for Freelancers: SimplyHired is a free platform for job seekers, with no commission fees on earnings, unlike many other freelance portals that take a percentage of your income.

2. Easy-to-Use Interface:SimplyHired offers a user-friendly design, making it simple to navigate and search for jobs.

3. Job Listings: The platform aggregates job postings from various sources, providing a wide range of freelance opportunities.

4. Freelancer Screening: Some features may include the verification of a freelancer's identification to ensure credibility.

5. Messaging:Users can communicate directly with freelancers both before and after agreeing to a project, facilitating clear communication.

Benefits of SimplyHired

1. Receive email notifications for new jobs matching your experience and criteria.
2. Access professional development tools and resources to support career growth.
3. Helpful resources like resume writing, cover letter, etc.

As we explore the best freelancing websites, payment solutions like PayGlocal help freelancers, especially when dealing with international clients. For instance, if you are a freelancer based in India, Payglocal will help you to manage cross-border payments efficiently.

Read more about Freelancing from India - A Growing Opportunity.

5. Freelancer

Freelancer.com is a global marketplace with millions of users offering jobs in various categories, including web development, content translation, and social media marketing. The platform allows freelancers to bid on projects and clients to select the most suitable offers.

Features of Freelancer.com

1. Freelancer Rewards: Earn XP points by completing jobs and reaching goals, unlocking more opportunities, and increasing your chances of winning projects.

2. Preferred Freelancer Program: Apply to become a Preferred Freelancer, gaining access to elite-level perks, including priority support and a badge to showcase your achievements.

3. Freelancer Showcase: Create a portfolio to display your successful projects and contest wins, making it easier for employers to find you.

4. Wide Range of Specializations: Freelancer.com supports various industries, from creative services to technical fields, offering diverse job opportunities.

5. Progress Tracking Tools: Use the time tracker and live chat features to manage projects more efficiently and keep track of progress.

Benefits of Freelancer.com

1. Utilize milestone payments for better project management.
2. Easy-to-use platform for both freelancers and clients.
3. Participate in contests to showcase skills and win projects.
4. Access to customer support to address issues promptly.

6. 99 Designs

99designs provides freelance designers a unique platform to showcase their creative skills through design contests and direct client collaborations. Rather than simply applying for projects, you can participate in competitions where multiple designers submit concepts, giving you the opportunity to win projects based on your actual work rather than just your portfolio or pitch.

Features of 99 Designs

1. Design Contests:Freelancers can participate in design contests, submitting creative concepts based on client briefs. This provides an opportunity to showcase skills and earn competitive rewards.

2. Direct Hiring Option:Freelancers can collaborate directly with clients through one-on-one projects, allowing for personalized interactions and faster turnaround times.

3. Flexible Work and Payment System:Payments are secured upfront by 99designs and released upon project completion, ensuring financial security and reducing invoice-related stress.

4. Portfolio Building and Copyright Retention: Freelancers retain full copyright of unsold work, which can be added to their portfolio to increase visibility and attract clients.

Benefits of 99 Designs

1. You can set your own rates for direct client hires.
2. Submit multiple designs to increase visibility and chances of selection.
3. Ensures payment security where clients pay for projects upfront.

Also Read:Choosing the Right Payment Gateway

7. We Work Remotely

We Work Remotely is a platform dedicated to finding remote job opportunities across various fields, including programming, design, marketing, and customer support.

It offers both full-time and freelance positions, with some roles requiring specific time zone availability or being restricted to certain locations.

No profile is needed to browse job listings. Simply search for opportunities that match your skills and apply directly through the company’s website or via email.

Features of We Work Remotely

1. Extensive Job Listings:Access over 20,000 remote job opportunities across various industries and skill levels.

2. Advanced Search Filters:Refine your job search by location, job type, company size, and required skills.

3. Company Insights:View detailed company profiles, including culture, benefits, and employee reviews.

4. Salary Transparency: Salary ranges are provided for most jobs, helping job seekers make informed decisions.

5. Community Forum: Engage with a network of remote workers for support, networking, and industry insights.

Benefits of We Work Remotely

1. Features a curated selection of remote job opportunities.
2. The platform is simple and easy to navigate.

8. Dribbble

Dribbble is a platform designed for UI/UX designers, graphic designers, and illustrators. Serving as both a portfolio site and a job board, it enables freelancers to showcase their work and connect with international clients and employers. Freelancers can upload their projects, build portfolios, and engage with others in the community by providing feedback, sharing reviews, and fostering a supportive network.

Features of Dribbble

1. Portfolio Showcase: This dynamic platform helps designers to display their work, offering a modern alternative to traditional resumes through visually engaging portfolios.

2. Job Opportunities:Beyond showcasing talent, the platform also connects freelancers with clients via job boards, direct outreach, and talent-matching features.

3. Collaboration with Freelancers: Dribbble fosters creativity and collaboration by enabling designers to explore diverse projects and connect with like-minded professionals.

4. Community Building:Freelancers can build their personal brand by engaging with the Dribbble community, participating in design challenges, and networking with other creatives.

Benefits of Dribbble

1. Tailored specifically for design professionals.
2. Encourages feedback and interaction within the design community.
3. Connects design professionals with businesses in need of their skills

As a freelancer, managing smooth financial transactions is just as important as showcasing your skills. Platforms like PayGlocal can seamlessly integrate with Dribbble, offering tools that help manage cross-border payments, multicurrency accounts, invoices, and compliance effectively.

9. Codeable

Codeable connects freelance WordPress developers with job opportunities, ensuring fair compensation for their work. The platform uses a unique algorithm that helps maintain price fairness by filtering out both underpriced and overpriced project estimates. This way, clients only receive a single, fair estimate for their project, preventing freelancers from undercutting each other or overcharging clients.

Features of Codeable

1. Top-Notch WordPress Experts:Codeable works with highly skilled WordPress developers, handling everything from theme design to advanced customizations.

2. Rigorous Screening:Only 2% of applicants pass Codeable’s strict vetting process, ensuring you get the best talent for your projects.

3. Transparent Pricing:Fixed prices mean you pay exactly what’s agreed upon, with no hidden costs or surprises.

4. Guaranteed Quality:If you're not satisfied with the results, Codeable offers a refund or assigns a new developer to fix the issue.

5. Comprehensive Services: Whether it’s minor adjustments or large-scale e-commerce projects, Codeable covers a wide range of WordPress services.

Benefits of Codeable

1. Codeable works exclusively with top-tier WordPress experts
2. Maintains strict quality controls for all projects.
3. Offers clear, agreed-upon prices with no unexpected fees.
4. Freelancers receive tailored assistance throughout the project.
5. Ensures satisfaction with a guarantee for corrections or refunds.

10. PeoplePerHour

PeoplePerHouris a great platform for freelancers looking to earn through various gigs, making it equally beneficial for businesses seeking skilled freelance talent. The platform caters to a wide range of expertise, offering opportunities in fields such as technology and programming, writing and translation, design, videography and photography, marketing and branding, and social media.

Features of PeoplePerHour

1. User-Friendliness: PeoplePerHour features a bidding system where freelancers submit proposals for specific projects. This approach requires tailored responses for each project.

2. Payment Methods and Speed:Offers a variety of payment options, such as PayPal, bank transfers, ensuring quick payment processing once a project is completed and approved.

3. Service Fees: Charges freelancers a service fee based on their earnings. The fee percentage decreases as freelancers earn more, encouraging long-term client relationships and rewarding continued work.

4. Client Communication: The platform promotes direct communication between freelancers and clients through its bidding system, allowing for more in-depth discussions about project details and terms.

Benefits of PeoplePerHour

1. Freelancers can negotiate their rates with clients.
2. A tool to help freelancers and clients collaborate efficiently.
3. Clients deposit funds into an escrow account, ensuring payment for work.

Conclusion

Freelancing offers tremendous flexibility and opportunities, especially with the wide variety of platforms available in 2025. Signing up and creating a profile is often the first step to getting started in the world of online work.

However, beyond just selecting the right platform, it's crucial to consider payment systems, withdrawal methods, and service fees to ensure that you're making the most of your earnings. Each freelancing platform has its unique features and structure, so it’s important to explore specialized platforms that cater to your job type and expertise.

PayGlocal is a leading platform that provides a comprehensive solution for freelancers working internationally. It is a one-stop solution for handling payments across borders with ease. For freelancers, PayGlocal offers quick onboarding, allowing you to get started and set up local accounts in four different countries. You can easily collect payments from various freelancing platforms, track your payments, and ensure timely transfers with minimal fees. Freelancers can streamline their payment process, allowing them to focus on what they do best, delivering great work to their clients.

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