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The Ultimate Guide to Finding Remote Freelance Writing Jobs in 2025

Written by Monica Shaw

When I started my freelance writing career in 2008, remote jobs were rare. I was living in London at the time and found most of my work in the city or for local publications. Flash forward almost twenty years later, remote working is standard, which I love. The downside is that there is mounting competition for freelance writing jobs for writers from around the world, from seasoned journalists to newcomers. Thousands are chasing the same opportunities. The result? Lower rates for some, but also more possibilities for those who know how to stand out.

What is the best way to find remote freelance writing jobs in 2025?

The best way to find jobs is a combination of marketplaces and niche job boards (for quick wins) and networking (for long-term, higher-paying clients) — supported by a strong portfolio. Read on to learn more. 

Table of Contents

  1. Where Writers Find Work in 2025
  2. Freelance Writing Marketplaces – Pros and Cons
  3. Networking for Freelance Writers – Pros and Cons
  4. Marketplaces vs Networking: Which Works Best?
  5. Creative Alternatives to Job Boards
  6. Why Your Portfolio is Your #1 Asset
  7. Step-by-Step Plan to Landing Your First (or Next) Remote Freelance Writing Job
  8. What Writers Really Earn in 2025
  9. FAQ: Remote Freelance Writing Jobs
  10. Appendix: 50+ Job Boards & Marketplaces for Remote Writers
  11. Conclusion & Next Steps

Where Do Writers Find Work in 2025?

I spend a lot of time with freelance writers, talking to them and following their freelance journey on places like LinkedIn and Reddit. When people talk about their successes with remote writing jobs, a few themes stand out: 

So which is best? They all have pros and kinds. Let's dive in...

Freelance Writing Marketplaces – Pros and Cons

These are places like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer.com, and PeoplePerHour.

Pros

  • Thousands of listings updated daily.
  • Secure payments through escrow.
  • Easy entry for beginners.

Cons

  • High competition, especially globally.
  • Many clients expect low rates.
  • Platform fees reduce income.
  • Reliance on ratings and algorithms.

Are freelance marketplaces worth it?

Marketplaces can be worth it for beginners who need quick experience, but not for long-term growth unless you specialize. I have never found them useful for my niche (tech and travel writing). For balance, see this freelancer’s perspective on Upwork.

Networking for Freelance Writers – Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Higher-paying clients.
  • Long-term, trust-based relationships.
  • More referrals.

Cons

  • Takes time to build.
  • No instant results.
  • Requires pitching confidence.

Is networking better than job boards for writers?

Yes, networking tends to deliver higher-quality clients and more stable income, but it takes longer to build. It's particularly challenging if you're an introvert like me. But I overcame it, and today, word of mouth referrals are my biggest source of remote freelance writing jobs. 

See: How to Get Freelance Writing Clients on LinkedIn.

Marketplaces vs Networking: Which Works Best?

The truth? Both.
Marketplaces = short-term wins.
Networking = long-term success.

The smartest writers combine both strategies while building a strong portfolio.

Creative Alternatives to Job Boards

There's a strong case for going the self publishing route as venues like Substack allow you to monetize your own writing. You can also look to collaborate with influential writers in your niche to build your own credibility and get yourself out there (a more subtle form of networking). Here are some other creative ways to find remote work: 

  • Substack – Build a newsletter around your niche. Start a Substack
  • Medium Partner Program – Earn from reads. Join the program
  • Guest Blogging – Earn credibility and inbound leads.
  • Reddit Communities – Authentic leads (e.g. r/freelanceWriters)

Why Your Portfolio is Your #1 Asset

Here’s the secret: your portfolio will make or break your freelance career. It’s the first thing potential clients want to see — and often the deciding factor between hiring you or someone else.

  • Clients don’t care as much about résumés as they do about quality samples.
  • You don’t need to have been published to create samples. Write your own blog posts, create mock articles, or draft pieces on topics you want to specialize in.
  • What matters is showing you can communicate clearly, write professionally, and adapt to different tones.

For help getting started, read: What if I Haven’t Been Published? Creating Writing Samples Anyway.

A Writer’s Residence portfolio lets you:

  • Organize your samples in a polished, professional way.
  • Customize your site with your own domain.
  • Include your profile, résumé, and writing samples all in one place.
  • Benefit from SEO-friendly design so clients can actually find you.

Step-by-Step Plan to Landing Your First (or Next) Gig

  1. Define your niche. Don’t overthink it — pick an area you know or want to learn. Clients prefer writers who can show focus.
  2. Create portfolio samples. Write 3–5 strong examples in your chosen niche, even if they’re self-published. Upload them to your Writer’s Residence portfolio.
  3. Polish your online presence. Update your LinkedIn profile and ensure your portfolio link is easy to find.
  4. Choose 2–3 job-finding strategies. For beginners, try one marketplace (e.g. Upwork) + networking on LinkedIn. For pitching guidance: How to Pitch Your Work.
  5. Craft a pitch system. Build templates for cold emails, marketplace proposals, and LinkedIn outreach — then personalize.
  6. Track your efforts. Keep a spreadsheet of pitches sent, responses, and results. Adjust weekly.

Remember: Do not start pitching until you have a portfolio. Too many writers skip this step, and it’s why they don’t get responses. Clients need evidence you can deliver.

What Writers Really Earn in 2025

Here’s the truth: there’s no single answer. Some writers charge by the word, others by the project, and many — myself included — often work hourly.

For example, when I write for clients in the tech sector, I charge up to £75/hour. For other projects, I might agree on a per-article or per-word rate. What matters most isn’t the method — it’s your confidence in setting a reasonable rate and communicating your value.

Common Models

  • Per word: Beginners $0.05–$0.10/word; experienced niche writers up to $1.00/word.
  • Per project: $200–$1,500+ depending on scope.
  • Hourly: $30–$100+ depending on niche and experience.

How much do freelance writers earn in 2025?

It depends on your niche, pricing model, and experience — but hourly rates can reach £75+ for specialized fields like tech. Don't be afraid to charge what you're worth. 

FAQ: Remote Freelance Writing Jobs

Q: Can beginners get remote freelance writing jobs?
Yes. Start on marketplaces for experience and build your portfolio quickly.

Q: Do I need a niche?
Not at first, but specializing helps you stand out and command higher rates.

Q: Is Upwork better than networking?
Upwork is better for beginners, networking is better for sustainable growth. Most writers use both.

Q: How do I avoid scams?
Stick to reputable platforms, use contracts, and never work without a deposit or escrow.

Q: Can I make a living writing about what I love?
Maybe. My dream was to be a food writer, but I quickly realized it didn’t pay the bills. Instead, I leaned into my math and science background and transitioned into tech writing, where I now command high rates. The lesson? Lean into your unique credentials — industries like tech, finance, and healthcare often pay more for expertise. You can always pursue your passion topics through a Substack newsletter or blog as a side hustle (which I do), while building financial stability elsewhere.

Appendix: 50+ Job Boards & Marketplaces for Remote Freelance Writers

General Freelance Marketplaces

Writing-Specific Job Boards

Remote & Niche Job Boards

Creative & Publishing Platforms

Community-Based Opportunities

Conclusion & Next Steps

Finding remote freelance writing jobs in 2025 is about strategy, not luck. Marketplaces can get you started, but networking builds a career. Creative alternatives help you stand out. And through it all, your portfolio is the key that opens doors.

Start building your professional portfolio with Writer’s Residence today. Or check out our Writing Portfolio Clinic for personalized support.

Monica Shaw

I founded Writer's Residence alongside my own journey as a professional writer in 2008. Today, I continue to work as a writer among other side hustles that contribute towards my freelance lifestyle. I write for other businesses - white papers, research reports, web content, and other forms of copywriting - as well as for pleasure on my own personal websites, eatsleepwild.com and smarterfitter.com.

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