Tired of low-paying gigs on Freelancer.com? Discover 7 top platforms where developers can earn more in 2025 with hourly rates up to $150+.

Freelancer.com is popular, but let’s be real it’s a race to the bottom with low-paying gigs and too much competition. If you’re a developer looking to get paid what you’re worth, it might be time to upgrade where you work.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 7 Freelancer alternatives that offer higher pay, better clients, and real career growth in 2025.

1. Toptal — The Elite Network

Best for: Experienced developers

Why it pays more: Toptal only accepts the top 3% of applicants and matches them with premium clients like Shopify and Airbnb.

• Pros: High-quality clients, long-term contracts

• Cons: Extremely tough screening process

• Typical Pay: $60–$150+/hr

Want top-tier projects? Toptal is your ticket if you can get in.

2. Gun.io — Developer-Friendly Marketplace

Best for: U.S.-based freelancers

Why it pays more: You set your own rates and work with serious startups and tech firms.

• Pros: No bidding wars, great client support

• Cons: Limited to experienced developers

• Typical Pay: $70–$150/hr

Gun.io is perfect for developers who hate bidding and love coding.

3. Arc.dev — Remote Work for Coders

Best for: Full-time or part-time remote jobs

Why it pays more: Arc matches vetted devs with startups and companies looking for long-term partnerships.

• Pros: Consistent work, global reach

• Cons: Must pass vetting and interviews

• Typical Pay: $80–$150/hr

Flexible work, solid pay, and a great community that’s Arc.

4. Turing — Full-Time Remote Jobs with U.S. Companies

Best for: Developers looking for job stability

Why it pays more: Long-term projects, mostly full-time, with big companies.

• Pros: Steady monthly income

• Cons: Requires passing multiple coding tests

• Typical Pay: $2,000–$5,000+/month

If you want remote work with a consistent paycheck, Turing is a top choice.

5. Lemon.io — Work with Funded Startups

Best for: Freelancers in Europe and beyond

Why it pays more: Lemon.io connects you with startup clients who need fast results and are willing to pay for them.

• Pros: Friendly process, startup energy

• Cons: Vetting required, startup volatility

• Typical Pay: $45–$100/hr

Great for devs who want exciting projects without corporate bureaucracy.

6. Hired — Let Companies Apply to You

Best for: Full-time devs open to remote or hybrid roles

Why it pays more: Developers get offers directly from companies no applications needed.

• Pros: Salary transparency, multiple offers

• Cons: Competitive, mostly full-time roles

• Typical Pay: $100,000+/year

You don’t chase jobs, jobs chase you.

7. Braintrust — Keep 100% of What You Earn

Best for: Independent-minded developers

Why it pays more: No middlemen, no platform fees. It’s fully decentralized.

• Pros: You keep 100% of your pay

• Cons: Must be self-motivated, limited hand-holding

• Typical Pay: $75–$150/hr

Braintrust is built for devs who want freedom and full pay.

Read more: Fast‑Track: 5 Tech Skills You Can Learn in Just 30 Days

In Conclusion, Freelancer.com might be where many developers start, but it’s not where you need to stay. These platforms offer higher pay, better clients, and more respect for your skills.

Pick the one that fits your goals and start earning what you deserve in 2025.

Want more tips on freelance platforms, remote jobs, and developer success?

Subscribe to our forum and get fresh guides every week only at Bestspotsolution.com.

FAQs

1. What is the best freelance site for developers in 2025?

Toptal and Gun.io are among the top platforms, offering high-paying projects for experienced developers.

2. Can beginners find high-paying freelance jobs?

Yes, platforms like Lemon.io and Arc.dev are beginner-friendly if you have solid skills and a portfolio.

3. How much can freelance developers earn?

Freelance developers can earn anywhere from $45 to $150+ per hour, depending on experience and platform.