AI Boosting Freelancer Income in the UK
Freelancers across the UK are earning more money, working fewer hours, and enjoying greater flexibility — all thanks to artificial intelligence. New research from Fiverr reveals how tools like ChatGPT are helping self-employed workers raise their rates while delivering faster, smarter results.
This shift is reshaping how businesses hire talent and how individuals manage their careers. But it also highlights the urgent need for policy updates to support the growing freelance economy.
AI Is Now Essential for Many Freelancers
According to Fiverr’s survey, more than half of UK freelancers say they now rely on AI tools in their daily work. For many, AI has become so vital that they feel they couldn’t do their jobs without it.
By automating repetitive tasks, generating content, or speeding up workflows, freelancers are saving several hours each week. Some even claim to have gained back up to two full working days per week thanks to AI support.
ChatGPT Leads the Way in AI Tools
Among all available tools, ChatGPT is the top choice, used by 70% of freelancers. Other popular AI tools include:
- Google tools (38%)
- Gemini (33%)
- Microsoft Copilot (24%)
These platforms are helping freelancers with everything from writing and editing to coding, customer service, and content planning.
Freelancers Charge More – and Earn More
The increased efficiency from AI isn’t just saving time — it’s also leading to higher incomes.
According to the Fiverr study:
- 44% of freelancers are charging more for AI-assisted work.
- 70% say they are earning more now than when they worked in full-time jobs.
By completing projects faster and delivering high-quality work, freelancers are able to boost their rates while also enjoying a better work-life balance.
Businesses Also Benefit: More Freelancers, Lower Costs
Fiverr’s data also shows that UK businesses are hiring more freelancers than ever before.
- 87% of companies say they plan to hire freelancers up to 10 times over the next 6 months.
- 40% report using more freelancers in 2025 than in previous years.
- Companies are saving an average of £33,000 per month by using freelancers instead of full-time staff.
With AI-enabled freelancers delivering faster results, businesses are getting high-quality work without the cost of full-time employees.
AI is Filling Skills Gaps
Another key reason businesses turn to freelancers is to fill AI skills gaps in their teams.
- 1 in 5 business leaders say they rely on freelancers specifically for AI expertise.
- 38% are actively seeking freelance workers with AI knowledge and experience.
This growing demand is giving AI-savvy freelancers an edge in the marketplace — and increasing their ability to choose the work they want.
Flexible Hours, Self-Set Rates
The freelance lifestyle continues to attract professionals seeking more freedom. The report highlights that:
- Over 40% of freelancers now set their own hours.
- About 75% determine their own rates.
AI is empowering these workers to take greater control over their time and income, which explains why many are turning away from traditional full-time employment.
Concerns Remain: Automation and Government Support
Despite the benefits, the rise of AI in freelancing isn’t without concern.
- 36% of freelancers worry that AI may eventually automate parts of their job.
- Only 39% feel supported by government policies.
- 55% of businesses say complex tax laws make it harder to hire freelancers.
Many freelancers are now choosing to diversify their income to stay secure, with 70% reporting more than two income sources.
The Call for Policy Reform
The rapid changes in the freelance landscape have exposed outdated systems and laws that don’t fit today’s reality. Fiverr UK’s Country Manager, Michele Tropeano, says the current workforce needs better support:
“Portfolio careers are moving mainstream and becoming the backbone of the UK workforce.
To truly harness this potential, we need modern policies and systems that support this new way of working, not hold it back.”
A New Era of Work Powered by AI
Artificial intelligence is changing the world of work — and freelancers are leading the way. With tools like ChatGPT helping professionals save time and increase their income, the future of freelancing looks bright.
But to ensure this transformation is fair and sustainable, both governments and businesses must adapt. That means updating tax laws, providing support systems, and recognizing freelance workers as an essential part of the modern economy.
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