Global Header
15 Mins Read

How To Become a Freelance Web Developer in 2025: A Success Guide

Home Blog Business How To Become a Freelance Web Developer in 2025: A Success Guide

Key highlights

  • Learn how to become a freelance web developer, how to start, what you can earn and the key benefits.
  • Start your freelance web development journey with the right tools, software and strategies.
  • Build a strong portfolio that showcases your coding expertise and helps you stand out.
  • Use free resources and online platforms to learn, network and gain projects.
  • Strengthen your connections through professional links and collaborations with other freelancers and companies.

In a world increasingly driven by digital technology, the demand for skilled freelance web developers is on the rise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for web developers is set to expand by a remarkable 7% from 2024 to 2034. This is significantly faster than the 3% growth forecast for all other occupations.

If you’ve been thinking about how to become a freelance web developer, 2025 presents an opportune time to transform your aspirations into reality. Whether you’re contemplating a full career shift into freelance website development or just want to start online work to make some extra money on the side, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about building a successful career as a freelance website developer.

What does a freelance web developer do?

Being a “freelance web developer” means you’re not tied to one organization. Instead, you have the freedom to work with multiple clients and on different projects simultaneously. Additionally, you’re not bound by the traditional nine-to-five schedule.

However, the fact that you’re self-employed also means that you’re responsible for overseeing and managing all business and administrative tasks. This includes sourcing and managing potential clients, drafting contracts and handling invoicing and payments.

As for what freelance developers actually do, they build websites and web applications for clients using different web development skills and programming languages such as HTML, CSS and Python. They may also work with frameworks like Ruby on Rails, React and Vue.js and platforms such as WordPress and Shopify to create custom digital solutions.

Their role is to transform design concepts and mockups created by a web designer into a fully functional website or application. Some web developers are also responsible for ensuring optimal website performance post-development.

What are the different types of freelance web developers?

Types of web developers.

As a freelance full stack developer, you can choose from three main types of web development:  front-end, back-end or full-stack development.

Each project requires a unique set of functional prototype and web development skills that help you create, manage and optimize different aspects of a website or web application.

  • Front-end developers use programming languages like HTML, CSS and JavaScript to build the visual aspects of a website or web application that clients see or interact with directly.
  • Back-end developers use languages like Python, PHP and Ruby to build and maintain the invisible (i.e., the backend) elements — such as servers, databases and application logic — that keep websites and web applications running.
  • Full-stack developers are proficient in both front-end and back-end development and can therefore handle either aspect. As a freelance developer, being skilled in both areas helps you attract potential clients and manage multiple projects more effectively.

How much do freelance developers make?

Average annual salary range of a freelance web developer.

According to data collected by Arc, the average hourly rate for freelance web developers in North America ranges between $61 and $80.

Per year, freelance web developers in the U.S. make between $70,000 and $121,000 or an average of $92,000, according to Glassdoor. The exact amount depends on the level of experience.

Entry-level freelance web developers can expect to make between $48,000 and $80,000 per year, while seasoned developers (those with over four years of experience) can make between $58,000 and $104,000 per year.

Specialization, web development skills, geographical location and whether it’s a full-time job or a side project are also factors that affect how much you can earn as a freelance web developer or full stack developer.

Key benefits of becoming a freelance web developer

Benefits of becoming a freelance web developer.

Becoming a freelance web developer comes with several benefits. Here are some of the perks of following this freelance web development career path:

1. Increased flexibility

Unlike traditional employment, freelancing lets you set your own schedule, including your working hours and the number of projects you take on at a time.

For example, if you’re a morning person, you can start your workday at 4 a.m. and be done by midday. Conversely, if you’re a night owl, you can enjoy afternoon or early evening social activities and then commence work once you’re back home.

Essentially, you can tailor your schedule to fit with other personal commitments or priorities, which could facilitate a better work-life balance. It also gives you the freedom to dedicate time to side projects or practice building your code and web development skills.

2. Opportunity to become your own boss

As a freelance website developer, you’re your own boss. You make all the decisions from the projects you take to the tools you use and determine the rates you charge for your services. You can set your own goals and work toward them in a way that fits your lifestyle.

Many freelancers use this flexibility to develop their skills, collaborate with other developers and even experiment with building software or new features that could later attract small businesses or startups as potential clients. 

3. Ability to work from anywhere

The majority of freelance web development jobs can be done remotely. This saves you time and resources that you would otherwise spend on commuting. If you enjoy traveling, you can work from virtually any location worldwide as long as you have an internet connection. 

4. Supplemental income

When pursued as a side gig, freelance web development offers a great way to supplement your regular income. This additional revenue can help you reach your financial goals faster, whether that’s building an emergency fund, paying off debt or amassing savings for a big-ticket item like a car.

5. Access to a strong professional network

Another advantage of becoming a freelance web developer is the opportunity to build a strong professional network.

As a freelancer, you’ll collaborate with other developers, interact with clients and attend industry events where you can share past work and discuss your projects completed.

Cultivating these connections can lead to new opportunities — such as referrals, company partnerships or links to exciting new projects where your ability to solve problems stands out as a key skill.

6. Pathway to business ownership

Freelance web development offers an opportunity to market your skills and build a personal brand.

If you begin by dedicating a few months to learning the process and handling small projects, you can eventually transition from a freelancer to a full-time business owner. It’s the first step toward long-term independence and success in the freelance web development world.

How to start freelancing as a web developer

How to become a freelance web developer.

Transitioning into a freelance web developer is an exciting journey that requires strategy, skill and a bit of entrepreneurial spirit. If you’re ready to get started, here’s a practical step-by-step guide:

1. Select a niche

Niching means choosing a specific area of web development to focus on. This could be anything from user experience design to eCommerce development to specialized front-end frameworks like React or Angular. It could also involve focusing on specific industries like real estate or fitness and specific platforms like WordPress site.

Focusing on one niche, as opposed to trying to be a jack-of-all-trades, presents numerous advantages:

  • Reduced competition: Niche specialization means you’re not competing with every other web developer out there, only those in your niche.
  • Targeted marketing: With a clear niche, your marketing efforts can be more focused, appealing directly to a specific audience who needs your special services. Also, by focusing on one area, showing your past work you can position yourself as an expert in that particular field.
  • Higher rates: If you’re one of the few experts in a high-demand web development area, clients may be willing to pay more for your specialized skills and expertise.

If you’re experiencing difficulty settling on a niche, here are a few helpful pointers: 

Consider your background

Look at your education and professional background. It’s easier to get into a web development niche that you already have some knowledge or experience in than venturing into a whole new area.

Reflect on your interests or passions

Which parts of web development are you most passionate about and where do you think you can offer the most value? You’ll be more motivated to keep working and give your all if you’re engaged in a niche you’re interested in.

Research the market

Research the market to identify niches that are in demand. Opting for in-demand niches can help ensure a steady flow of clients. Some useful resources to consider using during your research include:

  • Industry-specific websites, forums and blogs.
  • Market research reports from companies like Statista and IBISWorld.
  • Google Trends: Use this tool to identify the popularity and search volume of specific keywords and topics related to web development. This can help you gauge the level of interest and potential demand for specific niches.

2. Upgrade your skills and knowledge

You might already have a background in computer science, some working knowledge of programming languages or technologies or even actual experience in developing websites and web applications. However, to make yourself a more attractive option for clients, take some time to upskill before you get started.

This might include taking online courses on sites like Coursera, Udemy and Codecademy to deepen your skill set and expertise. Or you could attend workshops, webinars and seminars to stay current with industry trends and technologies.

3. Create an online portfolio

The next step in how to become a freelance web developer is to create an online portfolio that showcases your best web development projects and demonstrates your skills and expertise to prospective clients.

A portfolio also provides useful details like your background, certifications and the type of services you offer. You should include contact information so potential clients can reach you.

Third-party platforms like GitHub, Behance and Adobe Portfolio offer a fast and convenient way to create a web development portfolio. Alternatively, you can choose to showcase your work on a self-hosted website, which you can easily create using tools like WordPress, Squarespace or Wix. You can even code a portfolio website from scratch, which would offer you another opportunity to showcase your skills.

If you’re new to web development and don’t have any previous work to show, don’t panic; there are options. For example, you can do some pro-bono work for a local business, friends and acquaintances or complete some mockup projects for your ideal clients. You can then feature these works in your portfolio to illustrate your potential and abilities.

Here are a few more additional tips to help you optimize your online portfolio:

  • For each featured project, write a concise summary that highlights its purpose, your specific role, achieved results and any unique challenges you overcame. Use relevant data and metrics where possible to quantify your impact.
  • Use engaging language that communicates your passion and expertise in web development.
  • Emphasize the web development skills and technologies you want clients to associate with you.
  • Include client testimonials (where possible), as positive feedback from past clients adds credibility to your portfolio.
  • Keep your portfolio up to date. Replace older projects with newer, more relevant work to keep your portfolio fresh and reflective of your current skills.

4. Determine your rates and terms

Start by conducting market research to gain insight into the prevailing rates for freelance web developers in your niche. This will provide you with a benchmark for setting your rates.

When setting rates, take into account your experience level, any special skills and knowledge you possess and the overall value you bring to clients.

Keep in mind: While clients are often willing to pay premium rates to expert freelance web developers, they might not be willing to pay that much to a novice. If you’re a beginner web developer, you may need to offer competitive rates to attract new clients initially.

As for the pricing strategy, you can charge by the hour or a fixed price per project. Both have their pros and cons, so do your research to determine the better option for you.

For example, some clients favor a fixed price per project as it provides them with a clear budget upfront. However, to ensure fair compensation, this approach requires an accurate estimation of the time and effort a project will take, which can be challenging for more complex tasks.

On the other hand, an hourly rate can be beneficial for projects where the scope is not clearly defined or is likely to change. However, this method can limit your earning potential, as you’ll only ever make that rate per hour, regardless of how many projects you tackle.

Once you’ve set your rates and settled on a pricing structure, the next step is to set up payment systems. Choose payment methods that are convenient for you and your target clientele. Payment processors like PayPal, Venmo and Wise are popular among freelancers due to their accessibility, ease of use and security.

Finally, define your terms of service, including working hours, revision policies, deadlines and any other conditions for your service. Clear terms ensure both you and your clients have a shared understanding of expectations and can help prevent misunderstandings (if they occur) down the road.

5. Apply for projects

Having defined your niche, honed your skills, built an impressive portfolio and set your rates, it’s time to find clients and projects.

You can start by browsing online job boards or websites that specialize in remote freelance web development opportunities. Popular options include Remote.co, FlexJobs and We Work Remotely.

Note that for some of these sites, such as FlexJobs, you might have to pay a subscription fee to access their entire freelance jobs database and any extra job seeker resources they offer.

Consider also registering on freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork. These platforms allow you to showcase your skills and connect with clients seeking remote talent. Similarly, sign up on professional networking sites like LinkedIn to connect with other pros in your niche and explore work opportunities.

When applying for projects, craft a strong elevator pitch that succinctly describes your value proposition. Customize it for each client, demonstrating how your skills and experience align with their specific needs.

Other than these short-term approaches, it’s also important to work on a long-term strategy for attracting clients. Typically, this involves building a personal brand and establishing authority in your field.

For example, the following actions can help you position yourself as an expert in your niche and increase your visibility and reach within your target audience:

  • Writing guest posts, tutorials or web development content on reputable platforms like Medium or DEV.
  • Contributing to open-source projects on platforms like GitHub.
  • Making guest appearances on web development podcasts.
  • Answering web development-related questions on online platforms like Stack Overflow, Reddit and Quora.
  • Building a community on social media sites like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook or through email newsletters.

6. Leverage tools

Leveraging the right tools can help streamline the business and administrative aspects of your freelance web development. It can also help free up your time to focus on what you do best — developing outstanding web solutions for your clients.

Here are some useful tools to consider integrating into your workflow:

  • Project management: Asana and Trello offer excellent solutions for managing projects and deadlines.
  • Time management: Tools like Timely and Toggl help you accurately track the time spent on each project, which is essential if you’re billing by the hour.
  • Financial tracking and invoicing: Tools like FreshBooks and Marketcircle’s Billings Pro offer great solutions for financial tracking, invoicing and expense management.

7. Continue improving and learning

To stay relevant and competitive, embrace continuous learning and improvement. Regularly seek and absorb client feedback to refine and enhance your services.

In addition, stay up to date with industry trends, technologies and techniques. Invest in learning and improving your skills by attending workshops and seminars or taking online courses on the sites we mentioned above.

Final thoughts

Freelance web development offers a path to both personal and financial freedom. The liberty to choose your own client projects, the flexibility to work from any location at any time and the potential to earn supplemental income are just a few of the benefits that make a freelance web developer career desirable.

If you are exploring how to become a freelance web developer, one factor that can contribute toward success as a freelance web developer is having a reliable and efficient platform for building and hosting your portfolio as well as your clients’ websites.

Bluehost’s unique blend of affordability, ease of use, robust functionality and round-the-clock customer support makes it the perfect option for freelance web developers looking for a dependable web hosting partner.

Explore Bluehost web hosting plans to find the right option for your needs.

FAQs

How much do freelancing web developers make?

Freelance web developers can make anywhere from $25 to $100 per hour, depending on experience, niche and the complexity of their freelance projects. Skilled full stack developers and specialists in high-demand software or platforms often earn more.

Is 40 too old to become a web developer?

Not. Age doesn’t limit your ability to learn code or start a web design business. Many people begin freelancing later in life and succeed by leveraging their life and business experience to solve problems effectively for clients.

Can a beginner start a career in freelance web development?

Yes, beginners can start freelancing once they have basic web development skills and a small portfolio. Using free tools, mock projects or pro-bono work helps build credibility while learning the process of working with real clients.

Can I start freelancing with HTML and CSS?

Yes, you can start freelancing with just HTML and CSS by taking on small web design business projects. As you grow, learn JavaScript or back-end tools to expand your services and attract more clients.

How long does it take to become a freelance web developer?

It usually takes 6 to 12 months to learn code, practice and build a portfolio. The timeline depends on how much time you dedicate and the complexity of the software and tools you learn.

What skills and project management tools do you need to be a freelance web developer?

Key skills include coding, design sense and using project management tools to stay organized. Strong communication and problem-solving abilities are also crucial to manage clients and deliver high-quality freelance projects efficiently.

  • Hey, I’m Ankit Uniyal, a driven content writer with 5+ years of success in crafting impactful content across global marketing. As an expert in SEO and user behavior, I create content that not only ranks but resonates with the target audience.

Learn more about Bluehost Editorial Guidelines
View All

Write A Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *