Freelancing and remote work have exploded in popularity, but if you’ve tried platforms like Upwork, you know how tough it can be. The competition is brutal, clients often underpay, and getting noticed feels impossible. But what if I told you there are lesser-known platforms where you can land remote jobs without fighting thousands of freelancers for a single gig?
If you’re struggling to attract high-paying clients, you might want to rethink your pricing strategies for freelancers to ensure you’re charging what you’re worth.
Here are five hidden gems that can help you land remote work faster, often with better pay and fewer hoops to jump through.
1. Contra – The Upwork Alternative with No Fees
Contra is an excellent alternative for freelancers tired of losing a chunk of their earnings to platform fees. Unlike Upwork, Contra lets you keep 100% of what you earn.
Why It’s Better Than Upwork:
- No commission fees – You take home your full earnings.
- High-quality clients – Many startups and established companies post jobs here.
- Portfolio-based applications – Instead of writing endless proposals, clients hire based on your work samples.
Best For:
- Web developers
- Designers
- Copywriters
- Marketers
If you’ve struggled with Upwork’s high fees and endless bidding wars, Contra offers a cleaner, fairer system to connect with clients. You may also want to explore 7 high-income skills you can learn in 30 days to boost your expertise.
2. We Work Remotely – Jobs Without the Freelancer Label
We Work Remotely is one of the best places to find long-term remote jobs with established companies. Unlike freelance marketplaces, this site focuses on hiring for remote positions rather than just gig-based work.
Why It’s a Great Option:
- Companies post full-time and part-time remote jobs rather than one-off gigs.
- No need to compete with thousands of freelancers—you’re applying for an actual job.
- Well-paid jobs in tech, design, marketing, and customer support.
Best For:
- Software developers
- UX/UI designers
- Digital marketers
- Virtual assistants
This site is ideal for people who want remote work without the unstable nature of freelancing. If you’re new to remote work, check out how to build a standout resume for remote job applications to improve your chances of getting hired.
3. Outsourcely – Great for Beginners Who Want Stability
Outsourcely is a hidden gem for finding long-term remote jobs, especially for beginners. Unlike Upwork, where projects are often short-term, Outsourcely helps you find full-time and part-time positions with startups and companies worldwide.
Why It’s Worth Trying:
- Companies look for remote employees, not just one-time freelancers.
- Less competition compared to mainstream job platforms.
- Many entry-level job openings available.
Best For:
- Virtual assistants
- Customer support
- Writers
- Admin & project managers
If you’re tired of gig work and want a stable remote job, Outsourcely is one of the best places to look. For more remote job options, take a look at 9 high-paying remote jobs that don’t require a degree in 2025.
4. Workana – A Goldmine for Latin American & Asian Freelancers
Workana is a lesser-known freelancing site that focuses on Latin America and parts of Asia. If you’re from these regions, you won’t have to compete with thousands of US-based freelancers like on Upwork.
Why It’s a Game-Changer:
- Less competition compared to Upwork and Fiverr.
- Companies specifically look for talent from these regions, which can give you an edge.
- Clients often prefer ongoing working relationships rather than just one-time projects.
Best For:
- Web development
- Graphic design
- Writing & translation
- Administrative work
Many freelancers report finding their first job much faster here than on crowded platforms like Upwork. To maximize your earning potential, consider how to market yourself and get high-paying clients effectively.
5. Remotive – High-Quality Remote Jobs in Tech & Marketing
Remotive is a curated job board that focuses on high-paying remote jobs in tech, marketing, and customer support. Unlike Upwork, where clients often expect freelancers to work for pennies, Remotive lists legitimate, well-paying opportunities. You might also want to learn about what a ‘no-code’ remote job is and why people are making $100K doing it.
Why It’s Worth Checking Out:
- No bidding wars – You apply like a normal job.
- Many six-figure remote positions available.
- Regularly updated with new job openings from vetted companies.
Best For:
- Software engineers
- Content marketers
- Customer success specialists
- Sales professionals
If you’re looking for a well-paid remote job instead of unreliable freelance gigs, Remotive is an excellent place to start.
Final Thoughts: Ditch the Competition & Try These Sites
Upwork isn’t the only way to land remote work. In fact, it might be one of the hardest ways to do it. The sites above provide better opportunities, less competition, and often higher pay—especially if you’re struggling to land gigs on mainstream platforms.
Here’s what to do next:
- Pick one or two of these platforms that best match your skills.
- Create a strong profile showcasing your experience.
- Start applying for jobs and stay consistent.
Remote work is more accessible than ever, and you don’t have to fight thousands of people on Upwork to get started. Give these platforms a shot, and you might just land your first (or next) remote job much faster.
