Gen Z vs Millennials: Who’s Freelancing More?
1. Freelancing by the Numbers: Gen Z in the Lead
Recent data shows that Gen Z is outpacing Millennials in freelancing. Around 52% of Gen Z individuals engage in freelance work, compared to 44% of Millennials. In the U.S., approximately 50% of Gen Z (ages 18–22) reported freelancing in the past year versus 44% of Millennials.
Over half of Gen Z freelancers work full-time (40+ hours per week), showing that freelancing isn’t just a side hustle—it’s a career choice and a lifestyle shift.
2. Talent & Representation in the Freelance Workforce
Although Gen Z leads in freelance participation, Millennials still represent a larger share of the overall freelancer population—about 45%, while Gen Z accounts for roughly 15%. This reflects Millennials’ longer tenure in the workforce and earlier exposure to freelance opportunities.
3. Why Gen Z Favors Freelancing
- Flexibility & Autonomy: Gen Z values control over work schedules and environments, prioritizing independence and personal freedom.
- Freedom of Location & Project Choice: Many appreciate the ability to work from anywhere and select projects that align with their passions.
- Skill Development & AI Savviness: About 61% of Gen Z freelancers use AI tools regularly, demonstrating strong adaptability and ongoing skill growth.
- Entrepreneurial Mindset: Gen Z embraces freelancing as freedom from traditional 9-to-5 jobs—pursuing purpose-driven, dynamic careers over routine stability.
4. Millennials & Freelancing: Steady but Different
While Millennials freelance less than Gen Z, their participation remains significant—around 44%, according to multiple reports. Many Millennials use freelancing to supplement income or expand professional portfolios rather than as a full-time commitment.
Having navigated early-career challenges during economic downturns, Millennials often value stability and structured career paths, balancing freelance work with traditional employment.
5. What Drives the Difference?
- Tech-Native Outlook: Gen Z grew up with gig platforms and digital tools, making freelance work a natural fit for their digital-first mindset.
- Economic Realism: Entering adulthood during uncertainty, Gen Z views freelancing as a safeguard against traditional job insecurity.
- Career Approach: Millennials often prefer formal career tracks and traditional upskilling over the unpredictability of full-time freelancing.
6. The Future of Freelancing
Freelancing continues to gain traction across generations. Experts predict that by 2027, 50% of the U.S. workforce will participate in freelance or contract work in some capacity. Gen Z’s early adoption of freelancing is accelerating this trend.
Freelancing is also becoming mainstream—businesses are hiring more remote professionals, and platforms are now catering to high-skill freelance roles across industries.
7. Summary Table: Freelancing Compared
| Aspect | Gen Z | Millennials |
|---|---|---|
| Freelance Participation | ≈52% | ≈44% |
| Share of Freelance Workforce | ≈15% | ≈45% |
| Full-Time Freelance | Majority (~53%) | Mostly part-time or side projects |
| Key Motivators | Flexibility, autonomy, digital skills | Supplement income, career variety |
| Tools & Upskilling | High AI adoption, certifications | Traditional learning paths |
8. Closing Thoughts
Both Gen Z and Millennials are redefining the freelance landscape—but Gen Z leads the charge with a greater focus on independence, adaptability, and purpose-driven work. Millennials continue to contribute meaningfully, often balancing freelancing alongside established careers.
As freelancing becomes a mainstream career path, businesses and platforms must evolve—offering flexibility, supporting continuous learning, and embracing the project-based economy that defines the modern workforce.