A new study has identified Miami as the top U.S. city for freelancers, ranking it above other hubs based on factors such as income potential, cost of living, internet quality, and professional resources.
The study, conducted by Hostinger, analysed publicly available data to assess how well each city supports independent workers.
Miami Tops the List with Strong Earnings and Zero Self-Employment Tax
With a freelance workforce making up nearly 46% of its total workers, Miami scored the highest in the ranking, with a tax-friendly environment—freelancers in Miami pay no self-employment tax. Again, it offers 433 co-working spaces and an average freelance income of $45,610.
Las Vegas followed in second place, providing some of the highest freelance earnings in the country at $50,056 per worker. With no state income tax and an affordable cost of living, the city presents a financially stable option for independent professionals.
Nashville, San Francisco, and Boston Round Out the Top Five
Nashville took third place, benefiting from high internet speeds (3,317 Mbps) and no self-employment tax. The city’s affordability and growing freelance population contributed to its strong ranking.
San Francisco, despite its high living costs, ranked fourth due to its lucrative freelance opportunities. Freelancers in the city earn an average of $51,903, the highest on the list, thanks to its thriving tech and innovation sectors.
Boston secured fifth place, with nearly 20% of its workforce engaged in freelance work. The city provides freelancers with 172 co-working spaces and diverse professional opportunities, making it a prime location for career growth.
Los Angeles Has the Largest Freelance Workforce
In sixth place, Los Angeles stood out for having the largest freelance workforce in the study, with over 431,614 independent workers. The city also recorded the highest total freelance revenue, surpassing $20 billion. With 805 co-working spaces—the most of any city—Los Angeles offers a vibrant network for freelancers.
Austin ranked seventh, leading in co-working spaces with 569 options. Its lower cost of living and growing freelance community make it an increasingly popular choice.
Philadelphia, Houston, and Denver Complete the Top Ten
Philadelphia, in eighth place, provides a cost-effective option for freelancers, with access to 153 co-working spaces and industries like healthcare, education, and finance.
Houston ranked ninth, offering no self-employment tax and an affordable cost of living. The city’s freelance community continues to expand, particularly in sectors such as energy and healthcare.
Denver rounded out the top ten, attracting freelancers with its balanced work-life environment and increasing professional opportunities.
Factors That Make a City Freelancer-Friendly
According to a Hostinger spokesperson, cities that offer financial advantages and professional support systems tend to attract more freelancers.
“Freelancers succeed in cities that are affordable, provide strong earning potential, and accessible resources. Low taxes and abundant co-working spaces directly support independent professionals, while diverse industries create consistent opportunities for work. Cities with high income potential and manageable living costs enable freelancers to grow their careers and maintain a better quality of life.”
For freelancers looking for the best places to thrive, Miami, Las Vegas, and Nashville are top choices with a combination of strong earnings, low taxes, and access to co-working spaces.
