Thinking about starting your freelancing journey? Fantastic! Freelancing has the brightest future when you choose the right path. Even though there are several freelancing skills available, you have to choose a suitable one based on your interest and market demand.
You don’t need rocket science to find your niche. That’s why we are here to help. In this guide, we will show you top in-demand freelancing skills that can help you build a promising career.
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Why is Choosing The Right Freelancing Skill Important?
Freelancing is a demanding career model at the moment, and it’s growing rapidly, thanks to the Covid-19 pandemic. According to a reliable source, the CAGR rate of the freelancing market is projected to be 17.7% from 2025 to 2030.
Another survey shows that the number of freelancers in the US is rapidly growing, with a projected rate of 90.1 million by 2028. So, it’s essential to choose the right skill before starting your freelancing journey.
Even though there are different freelancing skills available, if you don’t choose the right one, it can impact your job satisfaction, income, and overall career growth. That’s why you have to consider some crucial factors like your interests, market demand, and learning opportunities while choosing a skill.
Top In-Demand Freelancing Skills
Let’s be honest! We are not going to sugarcoat freelancing skills, especially when the market is facing an evolving situation.
After doing research, we have handpicked some most reliable and in-demand freelancing skills that can provide long-term career opportunities:
1. AI Prompt Engineering
The global AI market is experiencing rapid growth. As per some sources, the artificial intelligence industry will reach $1.85 trillion by 2030. It’s super easy to use an AI tool. However, only thoughtful prompts can provide effective outcomes.
Here comes prompt engineering, a process of crafting instructions to guide a generative AI tool in creating the desired output. With the growth of the AI industry, more and more companies require AI prompt engineers.
So, if you are ready to start your journey, AI prompt engineering can be one of the best freelancing skills to develop. Besides freelancing, you can choose prompt engineering as a full-time option.
AI prompt engineering promises a good earning potential. A newbie freelancer can charge around $40 per hour, while an experienced AI prompt engineer can earn between $70 and $100 per hour.
2. Machine Learning
Machine learning sounds challenging for beginners, but if you master this skill, it will skyrocket your career. According to some sources, the global market of machine learning is projected to grow by 32-39% between 2025 to 2032.
As the AI industry is growing rapidly, many new opportunities will be unlocked in the coming years. If you are ready to start your freelance machine learning career, begin with programming languages like R or Python.
It will take time, but you can create a bulletproof career with in-depth knowledge and experience. Even though machine learning is one of the best freelancing skills, you can land high-demand projects. Depending on your expertise, you can earn between $80 and $150 per hour.
3. Copywriting
Even though the world is witnessing a huge trend of artificial intelligence, copywriting is still one of the most demanding freelancing skills. As an aspiring copywriter, you can explore various mediums like articles, social media posts, books, and advisements.
Copywriting isn’t going anywhere; it’s evolving day by day. If you are ready to skyrocket your copywriting business, you must master some powerful AI tools for copywriting as well.
From learning the basics to hunting some high-paying assignments, it’s going to be a fun journey. A freelance copywriter’s charge starts from $30 per hour and goes up to $80 per hour with experience.
4. Data Analytics
Data is a headache for most companies, even though it’s the most useful thing for them. Only a professional can make it meaningful with advanced skills. According to multiple sources, the CAGR of the data analytics global market is projected to be between 23.12% and 35.8% by 2032.
To start your freelance data analytics career, you have to start with basic mathematical operations. Besides that, you can polish your skills with the help of some basic tools like Google Sheets, Excel, or SQL.
Most data analysts earn a handsome amount of money, both with full-time or freelancing models. A freelance data analyst can earn between $50 and $100 per hour, depending on expertise and experience.
5. Virtual Reality
The demand for virtual reality is growing with the rapid expansion of the AI industry. This innovative technology uses 3D simulations to create a next-level digital experience. From training programs to the gaming industry, VA takes a significant role.
However, some developed Virtual Reality applications require expertise in XR and AR technologies. As a freelance VR developer, you have to master some crucial skills like motion tracking or VR headset functions.
A freelance VR developer can earn around $60 per hour at the beginning, while experienced professionals can earn between $100 to $150 per hour.
6. Graphic Design
Even though it’s one of the most in-demand freelancing skills, graphic design has evolved with time. You have to be super good at graphic design, as most people are capable of using tools like Canva.
To develop your graphic design skills, you must start with understanding basic design principles. Besides that, it’s also essential to master some advanced design tools like Figma, Illustrator, and Photoshop.
A newbie graphic designer’s rate starts from $30 per hour. However, you can earn between $80 to $100 per hour with experience and expertise. Check out some marketplaces or social media platforms like LinkedIn to find suitable graphic design projects.
7. Website Design/Development
Building a website is much easier nowadays. However, most companies still rely on a professional when it comes to designing or handling their official website. The web design market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.5% from 2024 to 2032.
On the other hand, the web development industry is projected to grow at 36.6% by 2030. As most professionals are boosting online visibility, the demand for highly skilled developers is increasing.
Whether you choose web design or web development, you will earn a good amount of money. A beginner can earn up to $50 per hour, while an experienced web developer charges between $70 and $150 per hour.
8. Content Writing
Even though AI has made a huge impact, the global content writing industry is projected to reach around $38.6 billion by 2033. Content writing is still a powerful freelance skill, as the demand for digital content is boosting rapidly.
From traditional blog posts to social media posts to website copy, content writers have a chance to explore various sections of this industry. Besides that, content writing is one of those freelancing skills that can help you build a brand with limited resources.
It’s quite simple to start a career as a freelance writer — all you need is pure passion for writing and basic knowledge of using some digital tools. A freelance writer can earn between $30 and $100 per hour, depending on experience and expertise.
9. Search Engine Optimization
Everyone wants to be on the top of the search results – whether they are blog owners or local companies. In that case, only an SEO expert can be the best help. Even though AI is changing the internet, SEO is not going anywhere – it has evolved with the latest technology.
As per some reliable sources, the global SEO industry is projected to reach $143.9 billion by 2030. You can win high-ticket clients with a broad skill set and strong technical background. However, you have to master different fields like e-commerce, YouTube SEO, and technical SEO.
You can join some online courses to learn the basics of SEO. A newbie SEO expert can earn $30 per hour, while an expert can earn up to $150 per hour.
10. Photography/Videography
Even though photography or videography don’t fit with traditional freelancing, it can be an outstanding career. If you have a passion for taking photographs and videos, you can build a lucrative freelance career.
Many companies create exciting opportunities for freelancers who can blend professionalism with creativity. If you are serious about building a photography career, start with learning basic skills.
It’s also essential to master using some tools to get top-rated clients. A beginner freelance photographer or videographer typically charges between $20 and $50 per hour, while professionals can earn up to $150 per hour.
Conclusion
When you choose freelancing, you have to overcome all challenges all by yourself. However, with baby steps, you can achieve your goals and fulfill your dreams. Make sure you master the field no matter which skill you choose.
Ruchira is the founder of Pro Freelancing Blog, a writer by passion and profession. Besides writing, she’s a travel buff, foodie, and culture enthusiast.
