9+ Best Freelance Writing Jobs: Ranked and Reviewed [2023]

Freelance work is becoming increasingly common – and websites for freelancers are cropping up all over the world.

If you want to become a freelance writer but don’t know how to get started, you’re not alone.

With the growing need for quality content out there, many companies are looking for freelance writers to help them handle their writing needs.

Finding gigs isn’t the problem, but landing one that suits your schedule and writing experience might be.

Make things easier for yourself, and check out the five best platforms for freelance writing jobs to land your next opportunity.

An Overview of Freelance Writing Jobs

Freelance writing jobs are some of the most lucrative and accessible positions for gig workers.

Getting started only requires a computer and WiFi access, and you can learn to leverage must-have freelance tools to optimize your workflow.

What is a Freelance Writing Job?

Freelance writers are self-employed writers who typically work on contract.

A freelance writer may operate entirely independently, and partner with individual clients, or they may work for an agency or job board.

Most freelance writers work on assignments and have deadlines for each article they write.

Although starting salaries are relatively average, freelance writers can earn six figures.

Why are Freelance Writing Jobs Important?

Freelance writing jobs are crucial to the gig economy.

They are ideal for those new to gig work since jobs are relatively available and sought after.

According to ZipRecruiter, freelance writers make between $35,000 and $78,000 – far more than many other freelancers.

Do I Need a Freelance Writing Job?

Freelance writing is an excellent idea for most people seeking to join the gig economy.

If you are a decent writer, you can start freelancing without experience.

Remember that your writing doesn’t have to be perfect, and you can use tools to check grammar and spelling.

Freelance writing is also an excellent option for those needing a side hustle in addition to their current job since you can choose how much or how little you work.

Types of Freelance Writing Jobs

Writing provides several ways to make an income, either on the side or full-time.

Here are a few different types of online writing jobs you can get:

1. Content Writing

As a content writer, you’ll be responsible for almost all written words posted on the internet. Your tasks could include writing anything from blog posts to white papers, guides, how-to articles, and social media content.

You aim to help brands promote products, inform their audience, and improve sales through carefully crafted texts.

Apart from writing skills, you’ll also need to know how to convey clear messages in your pieces and address your articles to a diverse target audience.

2. Copywriting

If you become a copywriter, you’ll have many of the same tasks as a content writer. You’ll rely more on several psychological tactics to gently nudge readers to go through a company’s marketing funnel.

In this case, your writing should be informative and compelling enough to get a consumer to convert. Using these persuasion tactics is what makes a successful copywriter.

3. Business Writing

If you’re not into creative writing, then business writing may be more suitable for you. These types of freelance jobs involve creating materials such as:

• Reports
• Emails
• Memos
• Internal SOPs, etc.

In this role, you’ll handle all communication for a company, whether it’s intended for external or internal use. In a way, you become the company’s voice, sending out important information to employees, customers, stakeholders, and more.

4. Newspaper Writing

Newspaper writing involves all the different types of texts you could see on an online news site or even traditional print media.

For example, reporters need to convey their message clearly, often in short articles that present the readers with key facts about an event.

Investigative journalists often combine news writing with storytelling techniques to ensure their pieces aren’t only clear but also engaging and able to make a greater impact.

But you don’t necessarily need to write about the news. Papers and online media sites can consider you for other positions, such as being a:

• Travel writer
• Critic (food, music, movies)
• Tech writer
• Health writer
• Collaborator (such as opinion writers)
• Lifestyle writer, etc.

5. Technical Writing

As a technical writer, you must have in-depth knowledge of certain technologies to communicate their key facts to a specific audience effectively.

You’ll most likely work on staff at certain newspaper and tech companies, where you’ll create user manuals or reports for shareholders.

In all these cases, you’ll need to simplify the information to ensure the target audience (regardless of their knowledge levels) understands it.

6. Social Media Writing

As a social media writer, your most important job would be to create engaging content that helps a brand meet its bottom line.

This could include improving brand perception, growing a large following, or even selling more products. You’ll also need to match the brand voice and ensure consistent communication across all channels.

And so, you must have in-depth knowledge of these platforms and how they can be efficiently used. 

7. Editing and Proofreading

Your writing skills can also be used in an editor or proofreader position. Knowing how to make an engaging piece also means you can help others do the same.

As an editor, you’ll look at the overall text to help writers improve flow, language, make it more engaging, or improve its clarity.

As a proofreader, you’re more concerned with grammar and word choice and the one who makes all published articles free of any mistakes.

The Best Freelance Writing Jobs at a Glance

If you’re short on time, consider reading our round-up of the best freelance writing jobs at a glance.

What is the Best Freelance Writing Job?

The best freelance writing job is the ProBlogger Job Board.

ProBlogger Job Board is not a company or agency.

It is a free, accessible board where you can find individual assignments and jobs that match your interests.

This option is ideal for most freelance writers since it allows for much freedom and flexibility.

Features to Look for in Freelance Writing Jobs

Before choosing your freelance writing job, you should consider several important features.

Although pay is essential, you should also consider the commitment level, application requirements, management structure, and additional perks.

1. Pay

Pay is an essential feature to consider when choosing any job.

Determine your potential salary and read reviews to assess how much current employees are making.

Additionally, consider how much time you will have to work to assess whether or not the pay is fair and appropriate.

If you stand to gain benefits or bonuses, factor these into your assessment.

2. Level of Commitment

Some freelance writing jobs won’t have a specific time commitment, and some will.

Since most freelance writers get paid by the word, assessing how long each assignment will take you can be challenging.

Consider taking a free typing test.

Use your score to calculate how much you will make on average per hour to determine if it is worth it.

3. Credentials or Expertise

Before submitting your application, consider the requirements listed by the employer.

Ensure that you meet those requirements since they will likely determine your degree of success.

For example, if you have yet to gain experience with technical writing, a technical writing job may be a difficult place to start.

Consider starting with a job that aligns with your interests and expertise – at least at first.

4. Management structure

The management structure of your new job will determine the amount of freedom you have.

For example, if you work for an agency, you may have a supervisor, and you may not get to choose your articles.

However, if you use a job board, you can choose individual articles and work directly with a client.

Consider your work style and choose an option that best fits you.

5. Additional Perks & Benefits

Some jobs may offer additional perks and bonuses, which can be an asset if the pay is lower than average.

For example, a job may pay you more money for working a certain number of hours a week, or you may receive holiday or work-related bonuses.

Also, consider other benefits.

Some companies, for example, may give you free access to valuable software or applications like Zoom, Grammarly, or Microsoft Office.

Best Freelance Writing Jobs: Our Top 3 Options [Ranked & Reviewed]

Once you have determined which features are most important to you, it’s time to view some of the best freelance writing jobs available.

1. ProBlogger Job Board – Our Pick

The ProBlogger Job Board is an open, free job board where you can access infinite freelance writing jobs.

There are no hidden fees or upsells, and the site offers tons of educational resources and helpful advice for applying to and succeeding at your jobs.

Users love the ProBlogger Job Board because it allows you to choose your assignments based on topic and compensation amount.

Key Features of the ProBlogger Job Board

ProBlogger Job Board offers several unique features that distinguish it from other options. These include:

• Free and Open: The best thing about this resource is that it is free and open to everyone. This eliminates the possibility of hidden fees and other prohibitive factors.
• Candidate Dashboard: Your Dashboard is where you can view your resume, listings, and payment options. It is straightforward to use.
• User-Friendly Interface: It is easy to use and great for beginners.
• Educational Resources: ProBlogger offers a broad range of educational resources and how-to guides to help you through the writing process.
• Premium Candidate Membership: This package allows you to access the most professional listings on the site.

Pros of the ProBlogger Job Board

There are many advantages to using ProBlogger Job Board for freelance writing. These include:

• Flexibility and Agency: With ProBlogger Job Board, you can choose your assignments based on pay, topic, and more, making this option the best for flexibility.
• Broad Range of Topics: There’s something for everyone on this platform, with topics ranging from health & wellness to technical writing.
• Competitive Pay: Most listings offer competitive pay since the listing cost is relatively expensive and weeds out cheaper listings.

Cons of the ProBlogger Job Board

Although this is an excellent option for most freelance writers, there are several potential drawbacks you may consider.

• Time-Consuming Job Search: It often takes a long time to peruse the site’s hundreds (sometimes thousands) of listings.
• Strictly for Writers: This isn’t it if you’re looking for a multi-market platform. ProBlogger only caters to writers.
• Application Process: With ProBlogger Job Board, you have to apply to each job individually, which can be time-consuming and frustrating.

ProBlogger Job Board Income

When using a job board, your income may vary.

That’s because each listing offers a different payment – some negotiable.

To that end, it’s hard to predict how much you can earn.

You can also work as much or as little as you want.

ProBlogger claims that rates range from $2 to $100 per post.

Conclusion: Should You Choose the ProBlogger Job Board?

The ProBlogger Job Board is ideal for those seeking a flexible freelance writing job.

It can work as a full-time or part-time side hustle, and you can work as much or as little as you want.

ProBlogger Job Board is our top pick for its top-quality jobs and excellent educational resources and support.

2. Upwork – Our Pick

Upwork is a job board similar to the ProBlogger Job Board in that it allows freelance writers to self-select assignments.

However, there are several crucial distinctions between Upwork and other job boards.

Key Features of Upwork

Consider the following key features of Upwork before making your decision.

• Sophisticated Platform: The Upwork platform offers many unique capabilities, from a Work Diary to payment management options.
• Bidding Structure: On Upwork, freelancers “bid” on special assignments, so pay is almost always negotiable.
• Paid Proposals: On Upwork, you have to use “Connects” to link up with clients. You receive ten free monthly coins but must pay 15 cents for additional Connects.
• Diverse Job Opportunities: Upwork is known for offering more than just freelance writing jobs. You can work on any number of remote jobs through the platform.
• All-in-One Structure: You can use Upwork for virtually every aspect of the job, from connecting with your client to receiving your payments.

Pros of Upwork

Consider the following benefits of using Upwork before making your decision:

• Quality of Listings: Unlike many other job boards, Upwork features high-quality freelance writing projects at competitive pay, making it a better choice than most.
• The Volume of Opportunities: Upwork is quite popular, so you will likely find a job that fits your requirements.
• Comprehensive, Accessible Platform: The Upwork platform is easy to use and accessible to beginners. You can track your work time, log details, manage payments, and more.

Cons of Upwork

There are drawbacks to using Upwork as well.

• High Competition: There are more writers than clients on Upwork, so competition is cutthroat.
• Dumping: Dumping is when low-skill writers accept low pay for assignments, driving high-skilled writers out of the market. This may not be an issue for you, but it means that your income may lower over time.
• Costly & Lengthy Application Process: Each project requires you to submit a lengthy application, which can be time-consuming. You also have to pay for proposals, which may determine your income.

Upwork Income

Since Upwork is a job board, your income will vary depending on the types of jobs you claim and the pay offered.

However, most jobs on Upwork offer between $10 to $100 an hour, depending on the level of skill required.

How much you work will also influence your pay.

Conclusion: Should You Choose Upwork?

Upwork is an excellent choice for most freelance writers.

On this platform, you can self-select assignments, work on projects you care about, and build a sophisticated profile that showcases your talents.

Although Upwork is a competitive workspace, there are ample opportunities for most freelancers – you just have to set yourself apart with a quality profile!

3. Fiverr – Also Great

Fiverr is a job board that is relatively new to the mix.

On Fiverr, you can find jobs across diverse fields like writing, graphic design, data management, computer programming, web design and development, and more.

Fiverr allows you to create a profile to showcase your talents and advertise your “gigs.”

Buyers will then search for your services and message you accordingly.

Key Features of Fiverr

Fiverr offers several unique features that differentiate it from other platforms.

These include:

• Flexible, Self-Claimed Work: With Fiverr, you can choose your jobs according to preference and payment.
• In-Portal Payment: Unlike other job boards, Fiverr allows you to claim and make payments through a secure online payment portal. You can take payments through PayPal, direct deposit, bank transfer, and more.
• Fiverr Pro: You can apply to become a Fiverr Pro by submitting proof of your expertise. This allows you to gain credibility and appear at the top of the buyers’ listings.
• Skills Test: Fiverr requires you to take a skill test before you get started on some jobs to prove your expertise to potential buyers.
• Comprehensive, Accessible Platform: The Fiverr platform is an all-in-one solution for freelancers with no website since you can create a profile and manage your work in one place.

Pros of Fiverr

There are many pros to using Fiverr.

Consider the following:

• Professional Profiles: Fiverr profiles are professional and sleek, making this an excellent option for those without websites.
• Diverse Gig Options: With so many jobs on the Fiverr platform, you are sure to find one that accommodates your needs and interests.
• Security: Fiverr is a highly secure platform, so you can count on your information to remain protected.

Cons of Fiverr

Consider the following cons of using the popular platform:

• Competitive: Like Upwork, Fiverr is quite competitive. Since you typically have to wait for buyers to find you, earning money at the beginning can be challenging.
• Commission Rates: Fiverr takes 20% of your payment, so the high commission rate can significantly cut your earnings.
• Not Accessible to Beginners: Fiverr functions differently than other job boards, so you have to wait for users to come to you. This can make it hard for beginners to break into the industry.

Fiverr Income

Your income on Fiverr will vary depending on your chosen jobs and how many you can get.

Additionally, Fiverr takes a commission from each order, so you should be prepared to factor that into your cost-benefit analysis.

Although some users report earning six-figure incomes from Fiverr, the average full-time Fiverr professional earns under $50k.

Conclusion: Should You Choose Fiverr?

Fiverr is an excellent option for those with credentials and experience.

Although you can use this as a beginner, you may need reviews and proof of your expertise to get jobs.

Fiverr is ultimately an invaluable resource for freelance writers.

Consider using this option if you don’t have a website since you can build a gorgeous profile on the platform.

Notable Mentions: Other Freelance Writing Jobs to Check Out

If you haven’t yet found your ideal freelance writing job, don’t fret!

The following list includes some of the best freelance writing gig options available.

You can’t go wrong with any of the platforms below.

1. LinkedIn – Best for Full-Time Positions

LinkedIn is a popular career networking platform and job board.

LinkedIn is unique in that it prioritizes networking and building relationships.

It works like any other social media platform in that you can “friend” other professionals, message people directly, and search for new content and job opportunities.

Although LinkedIn is less appropriate for individual gigs, it’s an excellent option for those seeking more stable opportunities.

Why is LinkedIn a Great Option?

LinkedIn is an excellent option for those seeking long-term, full-time employment.

As a social media platform, it allows you to connect to other people within your industry, which can present valuable opportunities down the line.

LinkedIn has an excellent user interface accessible to beginners and is free.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong creating a profile with Linked In – even if you don’t get jobs right away.

Drawbacks to LinkedIn

LinkedIn is not primarily a job board, so you may have a more challenging time finding gig work or individual assignments.

Additionally, it can be hard to parse legitimate jobs from scams, so exercise caution when selecting potential opportunities.

Lastly, LinkedIn requires you to make a profile, and beginners may struggle to promote themselves without the necessary credentials.

LinkedIn Income

It is nearly impossible to estimate how much you can earn from LinkedIn since it is one of the internet’s most popular social media sites and job boards.

However, you can earn more from this app since it primarily offers full-time jobs, and your payment will likely arrive more regularly.

Additionally, many jobs listed on LinkedIn offer benefits.

2. Textbroker – Best for Side Gigs

Textbroker is a content writing agency that hires freelance writers.

Unlike other companies, you are part of an in-house staff – but you can still choose when you want to work.

Various assignments on Textbroker allow writers to self-select with plenty of freedom.

Although this is a great side hustle app, it doesn’t work as well for full-time opportunities.

Why is Textbroker a Great Option?

Textbroker is an ideal option for those looking to supplement their income.

Each assignment offers a different pay grade, and you can choose your articles individually with complete freedom.

Being on an in-house staff ensures that you always have access to work, and this regularity can be an immense asset for many freelancers seeking consistency.

Lastly, the articles on Textbroker are often quite exciting and varied, so you will learn something from working on this platform.

Drawbacks to Textbroker

There are several drawbacks to using Textbroker for freelance writing work.

First, the platform doesn’t always pay as well as others, and most writers do not earn enough to support themselves from Textbroker alone.

Additionally, the company requires you to have relative familiarity with the topics you write about, potentially driving beginners out of the market.

Textbroker Income

Textbroker generally pays less than other platforms, so your income is likely lower than it would be on a different app or platform.

However, you can see how much each article is worth before committing to it, allowing you to budget accordingly.

Ultimately, Textbroker is excellent for earning a little extra cash on the side but less ideal for those seeking a more stable solution.

3. BloggingPro – Highest Rates

BloggingPro is a writing-specific job board that caters to freelance writers worldwide.

This platform is excellent for those seeking to choose individual gigs at higher rates than average since the company pays $0.05 to $0.06 per word.

BloggingPro is unique for its attention to employees, and the company is known for meticulously scanning listings for scams.

Why is BloggingPro a Great Option?

BloggingPro offers more competitive pay than many other content-writing websites do.

This can be an immense advantage for those seeking a more stable income and writers hoping to replace their day jobs.

Additionally, BloggingPro pays careful attention to the legitimacy of listings, so you can guarantee you won’t get scammed.

This platform features more exciting assignments than most across health, food, business, and travel.

Drawbacks to BloggingPro

There are a few drawbacks to using BloggingPro, but they may impact your decision.

First, BloggingPro is a job board that does not employ staff writers.

This can prevent you from getting regular pay and benefits.

Additionally, BloggingPro allegedly only posts nine to ten jobs a week, which is relatively few considering the number of writers who check the platform.

Since it is a competitive environment, it isn’t ideal for beginners.

BloggingPro Income

With BloggingPro, you can earn $0.05 to $0.06 per word on your articles, making this one of the most competitive job boards available.

The rates advertised on BloggingPro are far higher than average, making it harder to claim a job.

Although you can make more money on BloggingPro, the platform isn’t ideal for full-time work.

4. FlexJobs – Most Secure

FlexJobs is an allegedly scam-free, carefully vetted job board that caters to freelance writers and workers across nearly every field.

FlexJobs offers opportunities in over 50 different categories, and the company has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, which is a testament to the quality of its listings.

Why is FlexJobs a Great Option?

FlexJobs is an ideal option for those seeking to avoid scams and protect their personal information.

This platform prioritizes the safety of users, and each listing is carefully scrutinized and vetted to protect writers from harm.

FlexJobs offers a wide variety of jobs, payment structures, and ownership options, so there is something for everyone.

Drawbacks to FlexJobs

FlexJobs is not free, so you will have to pay a subscription fee to access the platform.

This can be a significant deterrent for writers seeking to maximize their earnings.

Additionally, many other job boards do not require you to pay, and some of the jobs on FlexJobs will be redundant, so you can find them elsewhere.

FlexJobs Income

Income varies widely on FlexJobs since there are no restrictions on this platform’s listing parameters.

To that end, use this as a side hustle resource or try to replace your day job with assignments from FlexJobs.

Some writers claim to make five figures a year, though this isn’t common.

5. Craigslist – Most Diverse Options  

Craigslist is a classified advertisement website that allows users to post ads without restriction and across vast categories.

Craigslist has been around the longest of any job board on this list – since 1995 – and it hasn’t changed much in the years since then.

On Craigslist, you can search for freelance writing jobs and connect with employers for gigs, part-time jobs, and full-time opportunities.

Why is Craigslist a Great Option?

Craigslist is an excellent option for users seeking variety and unrestricted access to thousands of job postings.

While it may take a while to peruse the listings, you will likely find something that fits your needs with enough patience.

The sheer number of listings on this site ensures enough room for everybody.

Drawbacks to Craigslist

The main drawback to using Craigslist is that this platform has no restrictions or security features.

Anyone can post a job without having to prove it isn’t a scam, so you must exercise caution when using this resource.

Additionally, Craigslist is crowded, so you may face high levels of competition when using this resource.

Craigslist Income

Your income on Craigslist is highly variable and will depend on the time you can invest in selecting and screening jobs.

Because jobs aren’t vetted, you could run into a scam, so it’s essential to do your due diligence.

While many people find long-term positions on Craigslist, finding a legitimate option is challenging.

6. SmartBlogger Job Board – Best for Beginners

The SmartBlogger Job Board is a platform that offers freelance writing and digital marketing work for all skill sets and levels.

Recently launched in 2022, this job board is completely free and unregistered, ensuring that most writers can find what they want.

You can benefit from the flexibility of working with individual clients and selecting your jobs based on preference. 

Why is the SmartBlogger Job Board a Great Option?

SmartBlogger Job Board is the best option for beginners since jobs are accessible, the user interface is simple, and this company offers many educational resources.

SmartBlogger aims not only to employ writers but also to teach them to improve their craft and build skills.

You can access a massive database of resources and hone your writing abilities – all while boosting your earnings.

The job board allows you to filter by payment, job type, genre, and more, which can simplify the process significantly.

Drawbacks to Smartblogger Job Board

There are drawbacks to this resource.

First, the courses on the site cost money.

Though they can help you get more jobs, you must sacrifice part of your earnings.

Additionally, there are a limited number of jobs on the job board, so you may need help finding what you need.

SmartBlogger Job Board Income

It’s impossible to tell how much you stand to make from the SmartBlogger job board since many companies do not publicize the compensation rates.

This is a disadvantage for those seeking security and certainty.

However, many users report that the jobs listed are credible and generally pay a fair and appropriate wage.

Other Companies Relevant to Freelance Writing Jobs

If you enjoyed this article, consider reading up about other companies relevant to freelance writing jobs.

• Remote Marketing Jobs: If you are a marketer looking to break into marketing, consider checking out this guide to the best remote marketing jobs available today. 
• Remote Graphic Design Jobs: Graphic design is a lucrative and increasingly remote field. You can design compelling graphics for different companies from home – and earn a significant income! 
• Ghostwriting Jobs: Ghostwriting is similar to freelance writing. Ghostwriters draft articles, texts, and books anonymously for other individuals to claim as their own.

What You’ll Need to Start Freelance Writing

To get started with your freelance writing career, you’ll need the following skills and tools:

Skills

• Excellent writing skills (grammar, punctuation, and spelling)
• In-depth research skills (gathering accurate and relevant information)
• Time management (managing multiple projects and meeting deadlines)
• Editing and proofreading (delivering clear and error-free content)
• Communication skills (communicating effectively with clients and editors)
• SEO knowledge (knowing the basics of search engine optimization)
• Creativity and originality (finding fresh ideas and approaches)
• Marketing and self-promotion (knowing how to advertise your services)

Tools

• Computer/laptop
• Internet connection
• Word processing software
• Grammar/spell checkers
• Plagiarism checker
• Project management tool
• Cloud storage
• Invoicing/payment tool
• Communication tools (email, messaging apps, or video conferencing)

Tips to Succeed at Freelance Writing

To succeed in the world of freelance writing, consider the following tips:

• Specialize: You need to focus on one or more specific niches to showcase your expertise and attract targeted clients.
• Build a Portfolio: Create a professional portfolio with your best writing samples to impress potential clients.
• Meet Deadlines: Delivering high-quality work on time is the key to establishing a solid reputation as a freelancer.
• Network: Connect with other writers, editors, and clients to expand your opportunities and gain referrals.
• Constant Learning: Stay updated on industry trends, writing techniques, and new skills to remain competitive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping Up

Now that you know all about the different types of writing jobs and the best platforms to land good-paying gigs, you have all you need to start freelancing without experience.

Check out the sites above and start looking for writing gigs that match your expertise, experience, and other personal preferences.

If you have any questions or concerns, let us know in the comments. And don’t forget to share this article with others who may be interested in doing some freelance writing.