Top 12 Most In-Demand Freelance Skills in 2025

If you are a freelancer, it is time to master these in-demand skills because the number of companies that prefer to work with freelancers is increasing all over the world.

Statistia / Number of freelancers in the United States from 2017 to 2028 (in millions):

On the other hand, the rise of artificial intelligence is forcing freelancers to acquire much more skills than ever. Clients do not want to pay for a service that AI also can manage. 

Therefore, freelancers need to choose their niche wisely and strengthen their skills more than ever.

Are you content with the basic knowledge in your field? This transformation will not help you. However, it makes it easier for those who care about increasing their experience and knowledge to get involved in profitable projects.

• How do you figure out which skills are right for you? 
• Where do you begin to learn them?

To answer these questions, first, you need to know the most in-demand skills in 2025.

In this blog, we’ve prepared a list of high-demand skills for the next 10 years, along with some tips to help you begin.

Keep scrolling and see what’s going on in the freelancing market!

12 Most In-Demand Freelance Skills in 2025

The list of most in-demand freelance skills changes as fast as a racing cheetah. The top 15 in-demand tech skills for freelancers in 2022 were quite different from today’s trends.

So here is a fresh list of the highest-paying skills for freelancing in 2025 - based on our market research. Now, you will know where to focus on.

1. Machine Learning

This is one of the most popular fields and it stays on the list as the machine learning market is projected to grow by 40% by 2027.

Machine learning can be a tough skill, particularly at the intersection of artificial intelligence and data science. 

How to learn machine learning?

1. Begin with basic programming language skills like Python or R.
2. Focus on building a strong foundation in mathematics, particularly statistics and probability.
3. Learn data analysis tools like Pandas and NumPy at a basic level.
4. Gain hands-on experience by building simple models.
5. Master libraries such as TensorFlow and PyTorch for deep learning.

Top machine learning courses

Google Machine Learning: This course from Google offers beginner to advanced learning in data preparation and model building.

Understanding Machine Learning: It includes the basic concepts of machine learning and model evaluation methods.

Earning potential

Machine learning is still a relatively new field; competition is lower and wages are high. On average, you can earn between $80 and $150 per hour, depending on your expertise.

2. AI Prompt Engineering

We all use AI tools, but how many of us can use them really efficiently? A simple prompt often results in superficial answers. However, only detailed and thoughtfully crafted prompts create effective outcomes.

That’s why more and more companies realize and will realize that they need prompt engineers. Since AI is an emerging market, it's the ideal time to develop prompt engineering skills! 

How to learn AI prompt engineering?

1. Start by learning the fundamental concepts of natural language processing (NLP) and artificial intelligence.
2. Familiarize yourself with how AI models function and practice interacting with tools like ChatGPT.
3. Focus on honing your prompt-writing skills and improve through experimentation with language subtleties.
4. Explore specialized tools and platforms used for prompt engineering, such as the OpenAI API.
5. Create and test customized prompts for various use cases, and build experience by working on sample projects.

Top AI prompt engineering courses 

ChatGPT Prompt Engineering for Developers: Starting from how to build effective prompts in ChatGPT and LLMs, you can learn how to build chatbots with OpenAI API.

IBM: Introduction to Prompt Engineering: Teaches the tricks of writing prompts and the efficient use of AI models.

Earning potential

Hourly pay for freelancers can change based on the field and the experience level. For newbies, rates typically start around $40 per hour, but you can earn anywhere from $70 to $100 depending on your expertise.

3. Programming (Coding)

Coding will continue to be one of the most sought-after skills in 2025 after AI and machine learning.

Programming generally requires a solid understanding of data science, programming languages, algorithms, and practical math.

Especially, the demand for ML engineers—who design software powered by data-driven intelligence—is on the rise. That is because their expertise minimizes costs by automating customer responses, optimizing operations, and boosting productivity.

How to learn programming?

1. Start by learning foundational programming languages like Python, JavaScript, or HTML. These languages are beginner-friendly and easy to learn
2. Dive into the basics of computer science, such as algorithms and data structures. This will boost your problem-solving skills.
3. Work on small projects; even if you're not getting paid, try building something like a website or a simple app. You never know—it might turn into something big!
4. Explore Git, the version control system, and GitHub, its cloud-based hosting system.  These tools are essential for managing your code and collaborating with others. Sure you can look for their alternatives.
5. Move on to advanced topics like object-oriented programming, database management, and software development methodologies.

Top programming courses

CS50’s Introduction to Programming with Scratch: After introducing programming with Scratch, it focuses on basic concepts. You start to create your own animations and games.

MITx: Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python: A beginner-level but comprehensive program. It covers basic concepts such as computational thinking, algorithms, data structures, and debugging with Python.

Earning potential

Programming hourly rates for freelancers are typically between $75 to $100, but with more experience, the rates rise, especially for complex projects.

4. Copywriting

All businesses need content. So they increasingly look for freelance writers to effectively market their products and services.

As a copywriter, or aspiring one, you can specialize in content creation for various mediums like blog posts, books, advertisements, and more.

If you have a passion for writing, this might be the perfect fit for you!

How to learn copywriting?

1. Start by learning the basics of grammar and language. Spelling mistakes are not acceptable in copywriting.
2. Write simple texts, create a daily writing routine, and pay attention to popular writing styles and content.
3. Focus on writing concise, clear, and strong copy. 
4. Learn about user experience, target audience, and keywords–aka SEO.
5. Experiment with different types of writing: advertisements, blog posts, email newsletters, and social media content. Each one requires a different tone.
6. Read. Read. Read. Good writers are always good readers too.

Top copywriting courses

Content-Led SEO with Brian Dean: A course that will guide you to master content writing with Brian Dean's strategies.

Power Writing: A course packed with viral writing techniques, from emails to landing pages that convert.

Earning potential

Copywriting rates usually start at $30 per hour and can range from $70 to $80 with experience. Check out our list of the best freelance writing sites for freelancers.

5. Graphic Design

Graphic design has become even more significant in 2025, especially for those with a creative mindset.

The challenge is people can design simple things using tools like Canva, so you have to be good at graphic design to make a difference. 

Find out how to design unlike tools. Add a personality to your work. Be bold and master some tools instead of being intermediate at many of them.

How to learn graphic design?

1. Begin by understanding basic design principles such as color theory, composition, and typography.
2. Explore design tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Figma.
3. Create simple designs and consider showcasing your works to build your portfolio. Behance is popular among designers. 
4. Learn web and mobile design principles, focusing on user-friendly interfaces and work on  UI & UX design.
5. If you’re ready to advance, consider learning additional skills like animations or 3D modeling to stand out.

Top graphic design courses

Graphic Design Specialization: Learn graphic design basics, typography, and create a capstone project, covering interface, motion, and editorial design.

‍

Advance Your Skills in Graphic Design: Here, you’ll find various courses to develop graphic design skills. 

Earning potential

Graphic design rates typically start at $30 per hour and go up to $80 or more with expertise.

Check out the platforms for graphic designer jobs. One of them may be the starting point for your career. 

6. Data Analytics

Data is useful but also a headache for many companies. Without a professional to make it meaningful, it’s a burden.

Studies show that they are overwhelmed by this new “gold”, so to speak, and they are searching for experts who can help them analyze it.

How to learn data analytics?

1. Begin with basic mathematical operations such as averages, percentages, and simple calculations.
2. Practice using tools like Excel, Google Sheets, and SQL to gain hands-on experience.
3. Learn how to present your data visually using graphs and tables to make it more understandable.
4. In real-world scenarios, data is often incomplete or inaccurate. Learn how to clean and refine it for better analysis.

Top data analytics courses

‍

Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate: With this program, you can learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts.

‍

IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate: Develop practical data analysis skills, including Python (Pandas, NumPy), API usage, data visualization (Excel, IBM Cognos, Tableau), and hands-on project experience to build a portfolio.

Earning potential

Freelance data analysts can expect hourly rates ranging from $50 to $100, depending on experience and expertise.

7. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

We all want to be on top of the search results. We all work with SEO specialists. 

Experts with a strong technical background and a broad skill set in SEO have a significant chance of landing lucrative contracts. 

However, the trick is to find a niche and be a master at what you do. For example, you can focus on technical SEO, e-commerce, YouTube SEO, etc. Offering broad services is not so much in demand anymore. Laser focus on a specific field if you’re into SEO. 

How to learn search engine optimization (SEO)?

1. Learn key elements of SEO, such as keywords, titles, meta descriptions, backlinks, and optimizing website areas.
2. Create a simple blog and run SEO tests on your own.
3. Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track and measure SEO performance.
4. Start gaining experience by offering your services on platforms like LinkedIn, Fiverr, Freelancer, and Upwork.

Top SEO courses

Semrush SEO Crash Course with Brian Dean: You can learn SEO basics and discover the key foundational steps you need to rank in Google.

Google SEO Fundamentals: You can learn how to conduct competitive analysis, assess brand recognition on social media, manage technical SEO (sitemaps, robots.txt, redirects, errors), and use SEO tools for audience analysis and persona development.

Earning potential

Freelance SEO experts typically start at $35 per hour, and the rate can go up to $150 depending on expertise.

8. Website Design and Development

Website design and development is among the high-paying freelance jobs.

Well-designed and functional websites are a surefire asset to any business in today's economy. Websites that do not consider user experience are no longer relevant.

Since more and more professionals specialize in building, managing, and designing, and they need usable interfaces for the web, the demand for skilled web developers is also rising.

How to learn web design and development?

1. Begin with basic web design concepts like color, typefaces, and design placement.
2. Designing web pages starts with HTML for organization manageability, while CSS provides the style and aesthetic presentation.
3. Get familiar with drag-and-drop tools like WordPress and Wix and set up simple projects to get a stronger understanding of design principles.
4. Learn to use JavaScript effectively to make your web pages more flexible and engaging for your visitors.
5. Learn how to make websites responsive so that they function well on desktops and mobile devices.

Top website design and development courses

Introduction to Web Design and Development: You will find the core structures, vocabulary, and practices that you need to get started creating on the web. 

Practical Web Design & Development: The course covers designing and developing responsive, mobile-friendly web pages using Photoshop, HTML5, CSS3, and Bootstrap.

Earning potential

Straight to the point, freelance web designers and developers charge $50 per hour, and an expert can earn up to $150 per hour.

9. Online (Digital) Marketing 

Digital marketing is one of the most fluid and versatile spheres of business and marketing. It’s highly sought-after with its many forms such as :

• Email Marketing
• Video Marketing
• Social Media Marketing
• Content Marketing

Don’t worry. You don’t have to specialize in every field in digital marketing. By concentrating on just one specific area, you can increase your chances of getting better payment.

How to learn online marketing?

1. Learn concepts such as target audience, brand awareness, and conversion rates.
2. Study advertising methods targeted to Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.
3. Learn fundamental techniques for SEO and how to run effective advertising campaigns.
4. Create and send appealing email campaigns with software like Mailchimp.
5. Track marketing performance using Google Analytics and other similar tools.

Top digital marketing courses

Google Digital Marketing & E-commerce Professional Certificate: Gain digital marketing and e-commerce skills to secure an entry-level job, attract customers through search and email, analyze performance with analytics, and build and optimize e-commerce stores.

Email Marketing Certification Course: You can learn to personalize and automate emails, design engaging content and CTAs, and analyze metrics for strategic success.

Earning potential

For someone specializing in digital marketing/advertising the starting rate is imperatively $30 per hour and depending on know-how rates may increase up to $100+ per hour.

10. Virtual Reality 

Virtual reality (VR) is an innovative technology that uses 3D simulations to create immersive digital experiences. It is widely used in gaming, education, and training programs.

Developing VR applications requires expertise in augmented reality (AR) and extended reality (XR) technologies. As a freelance VR developer, you’ll need skills in:

• Computer Vision
• Programming & Software Development
• 3D Modeling & Animation
• Machine Learning

How to learn virtual reality?

1. Learn how VR headsets, motion tracking, and 3D environments function.
2. Try different VR experiences with devices like Meta Quest, HTC Vive, or Google Cardboard.
3. Use tools like Blender or Unity to create virtual environments.
4. Start building basic applications with Unity or Unreal Engine.
5. Study how users move and interact in virtual spaces.

Top virtual reality courses

Virtual Reality (VR) App Development: With this course, you can learn how to design VR apps with Unity 3D, use OpenGL, optimize 3D interactions, explore VR hardware, and develop AR applications.

Virtual Reality Specialization: You’ll learn VR fundamentals, hardware, history, applications, 3D graphics, interaction techniques, and apply skills to create a VR game or project.

Earning potential

Freelance VR developers typically start at $60 per hour, while experienced professionals earn up to $150 per hour.

If you're just starting out, you can start by choosing one of the top freelance job sites for junior developers.

11. Video Production

Video content is one of the most in-demand freelance skills, widely used in marketing, recruitment, training, and social media. Covering not only filming but also editing makes video production a versatile skill for freelancers.

With the rise of TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts, short-form video content is more valuable than ever. Many beginners start by filming on their smartphones and gradually move to professional equipment.

How to learn video production?

1. Learn about camera angles, lighting, and composition.
2. Use a smartphone or an entry-level camera to create simple projects.
3. Try tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve.
4. Improve scripting, pacing, and transitions to make your videos more engaging.
5. Experiment with music, sound effects, and color grading for a polished look.
6. Follow trends on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts to understand what works for you.

Top video production courses

Cinematography Course | Shoot Expert Video on Any Camera: This course is highly recommended if you want to learn practical, no-fluff cinematography tips to shoot like a pro using DSLRs or smartphones, without expensive gear.

Video Production Bootcamp: Videography, Cinematography+: Here is how they describe this course: “Make better videos with the ultimate course on videography: video production, cinematography, editing + distribution.”

Earning potential

Freelance video producers typically charge between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience and project complexity.

12. Photography

Many organizations create big job opportunities for a freelancer who has a unique way of taking pictures and is blessed with immense creativity.

If you think you have such a talent, you can learn this skill even without taking a formal training program.

How to learn photography?

1. Make experiments with natural light and different angles
2. Practice with a smartphone or an entry-level camera by using manual mode.
3. Learn how ISO, aperture, and shutter speed work together to control exposure.
4. You can perfect your photos using tools such as Lightroom, Snapseed, or Photoshop.
5. Whether it’s portrait, street, or nature photography, developing a signature style always helps you stand out.

Top photography courses

THE Photography Masterclass: Complete Course on Photography: Learn to take amazing photos, whether you're a beginner or a pro.

What Every Photographer Should Know About Lenses: If you need to know ow lenses work, what makes a good or bad lens, and how to pick the one that's right for the kinds of photos you want to take, this is the course for you. 

Earning potential

Freelance photographers typically charge between $20 and $50 per hour for beginners, while professionals can earn $75 to $150 per hour, depending on expertise and project type.

And Discover Ruul: Freelancer’s Pay Button

In addition to your professional skills, every easy step you allow your clients to take will create an opportunity for you as a freelancer. Clients working with freelancers demand an easy payment process and taxing system. 

That’s when Ruul comes to the scene. As your Merchant of Record, Ruul onboards your clients by handling your invoicing and payments. 

Try Ruul which supports 140 different currencies and 190 countries. Plus, you can also receive payments in cryptocurrency.