Among the key findings of the research:

The majority of Gen Z professionals are choosing freelance careers over traditional 9-to-5 jobs. Fifty-three percent of Gen Z freelancers perform freelance work for at least 40 hours per week across a portfolio of different types of work. One-third of Gen Z freelancers who are working these hours have been doing so for more than two years.

Gen Z has an entrepreneurial mindset when it comes to work, building more diverse, flexible careers by choice, not necessity. Although Gen Z professionals across all modes of freelancing are motivated by financial stability, 70% say they freelance to have flexibility in their schedule; 64% to work in an environment not restricted by limitations of age, race or gender expectations; 64% to work from the location of their choosing; 62% to be able to pursue work they are passionate about or find meaningful; and 61% to take more control over their personal development and career path.

Gen Z freelancers are prioritizing learning and adopting new technologies such as AI at the highest rate. Although 51% of Gen Z professionals overall are adopting generative AI, Gen Z freelancers are adopting at even greater rates (61%) compared to their Gen Z full-time employee counterparts (41%). Notably, 39% of Gen Z freelancers already have obtained a specific certification for AI training.

The majority of Gen Z freelancers perform skilled work. Gen Z freelancers are highly skilled, with 45% performing specialized tasks such as computer programming, writing and design, while 24% work as social media experts and influencers.

The research outlined five distinct freelance career types — portfolio careerist, independent consultant, moonlighter, temporary gig worker and company founder.

Instant Insights /

More Than Half of Gen Z Professionals Now Freelancing, Research Finds

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