"A recent report from freelance platform Fiverr and market research firm Illuminas showed which big US cities have seen the biggest estimated changes in independent professionals from 2019 to 2024 using government data. The report said since the most recent available data was for 2023, Illuminas estimated the 2024 figures "based on more recent macroeconomic data." Michelle Baltrusitis, head of community at Fiverr, said there's been a "freelancing boom" in major Sun Belt cities."
"Orlando and Miami had the highest growth in independent professionals among 30 large US metro areas, at 32% each. Nashville followed, with a growth of 24%. The rest of the top-ten cities were all in the South or Southwest: "The Sun Belt really represents the sweet spot between lifestyle and opportunity," Baltrusitis, head of community at Fiverr, told Business Insider, adding it tends to offer a lower cost of living, nice weather, and booming economies."
"Census Bureau data showed more people have moved into than out of Florida over the past few years, as has the South as a whole. In the stagnant job market, where hiring opportunities are often harder to come by, building a business, freelancing, or independent contract work could be an attractive option. Baltrusitis thinks the rise of independent professionals will continue in the Sun Belt and nationwide because people want more work flexibility, multiple income streams, and control over their careers."
Independent professionals increased sharply in several Sun Belt metros between 2019 and 2024, with Orlando and Miami each rising 32% and Nashville up 24%. Analysis using government data and 2024 estimates based on macroeconomic indicators identified the largest changes across 30 large US metro areas. The Sun Belt combines lower costs, favorable weather, and expanding economies that attract freelancers and independent contractors. Census Bureau figures show net migration into Florida and the broader South. Persistent labor-market stagnation and limited hiring have pushed some workers toward building businesses, freelancing, and contracting for greater flexibility and multiple income streams.
Read at Business Insider
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