Best freelance platforms in United States
These top-rated platforms are ideal for skilled professionals and gig workers looking to connect with clients in the United States. Whether you are seeking long-term contract roles, specialized project work, or immediate freelance opportunities, this selection features the most reliable sites for U.S.-based talent. Each platform is vetted for its strong market presence and commitment to quality work.
Updated · how we verify platforms
Compare at a glance
| Platform | Type | Fees / commission | Pays via | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Upwork
|
Freelance marketplace | 0-15% variable service fee per contract (5% on Direct Contracts, 0% with Freelancer Plus) | Direct to Local Bank, PayPal, Payoneer, Direct to U.S. Bank, Wire transfer, M-Pesa, Instant Pay (US) | 2013 |
Braintrust
|
Talent network | 0% for talent, clients pay 10% | Bank transfer, USDC | 2018 |
FlexJobs
|
Remote job board | Job seeker subscription (around 25 dollars per month) | — | 2007 |
Toptal
|
Talent network | 0% - no commission on freelancer's set rate | PayPal, Payoneer, Wire transfer | 2010 |
Andela
|
Vetted developer network | No fee to join, negotiated pay | Bank transfer via Andela Pay, multi-currency | 2014 |
Gun.io
|
Vetted developer network | 0% - devs keep 100% of set rate | Weekly payments on net-30 | 2011 |
Guru
|
Freelance marketplace | 5% to 9% handling fee | PayPal, Payoneer, Wire transfer, Direct deposit | 1998 |
GoLance
|
Freelance marketplace | 7.95% commission on every payment | PayPal, Payoneer, bank, crypto via goWallet | 2015 |
Catalant
|
Consulting marketplace | Consultant sets own rate | — | 2013 |
Graphite
|
Consulting marketplace | Consultants set own rates | — | 2017 |
Contra
|
Freelancing platform | 0% commission for freelancers | Bank transfer, Stripe | 2019 |
FreeUp
|
Vetted talent network | No commission on set rate, $1-2 payout fee | PayPal, ACH, Payoneer weekly via Tipalti | 2015 |
Fiverr
|
Online marketplace | 20% seller commission | PayPal, Payoneer, Bank transfer (via Payoneer) | 2010 |
UpworkOne of the largest freelance marketplaces in the world, covering everything from development and design to writing, marketing, and admin sup…
upwork.com117 viewsBraintrustA user-owned talent network that connects vetted freelancers with enterprise clients. Talent pays 0% fees and earns ownership in the network…
usebraintrust.com129 viewsFlexJobsA subscription job board where every remote and flexible listing is hand-screened - no scams, including freelance and part-time roles.
flexjobs.com168 viewsToptalA premium network that screens applicants and accepts only a small percentage of freelance developers, designers, finance experts, product a…
toptal.com69 viewsAndelaA global network that vets and places software engineers (with deep African roots) into remote roles at companies.
andela.com135 viewsGun.ioA vetted freelance platform for senior software engineers working with US companies on contract and full-time roles.
gun.io76 viewsGuruOne of the oldest freelance marketplaces, matching companies with freelancers across programming, design, writing, and business services. Wo…
guru.com63 viewsGoLanceA global freelance marketplace with low fees and fast payouts across many skill categories.
golance.com63 viewsCatalantA marketplace connecting independent business consultants with company projects.
catalant.com69 viewsGraphiteA vetted network matching independent consultants and experts with company work.
graphite.com45 viewsContraA commission-free platform where independent workers showcase portfolios, sell services, and get hired for flexible work. Freelancers keep 1…
contra.com73 viewsFreeUpA vetted marketplace placing pre-screened freelancers for e-commerce and admin support.
freeup.net50 viewsFiverrA gig-based marketplace where freelancers package their services as fixed-price offers that clients can buy instantly. Strong for creative a…
fiverr.com72 views