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How much does a Independent Contractor make?

The average salary for a Independent Contractor is $131,324 per year in the US.

An Independent Contractor's earnings can vary greatly based on experience and the field they work in. On average, Independent Contractors make about $131,324 per year. This number can go higher or lower depending on several factors. For example, those with more years of experience or specialized skills often earn more.


Some Independent Contractors may earn less, around $18,125 annually. Others might make significantly more, up to $336,700 or more each year. The most common salary range is between $47,086 and $191,893. Knowing these numbers can help job seekers set realistic expectations and goals for their own careers.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Independent Contractor?

Independent contractors can find great opportunities in several cities, where high salaries await. Clarksville, TN, leads with an average salary of $224,036, making it a top choice. San Jose, CA, and New Orleans, LA, also offer strong earning potential, with average salaries of $211,763 and $194,500 respectively. Additional cities worth considering include Albany, NY, and Little Rock, AR, both offering salaries above $180,000. Buffalo, NY, and New Haven, CT, follow closely behind, with average earnings near $180,000. Salt Lake City, UT, Billings, MT, and Fresno, CA, complete the list, providing solid opportunities for independent contractors.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Independent Contractor jobs, highlighting Clarksville, TN with the highest at $224,036 and Fresno, CA with the lowest at $171,143.
  1. Clarksville, TN
    Average Salary: $224,036
    In Clarksville, contractors enjoy a blend of small-town charm and big-city opportunities. Companies such as Dell and Fort Campbell offer varied freelance jobs. The community support and cost of living make it ideal for independent work.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in Clarksville, TN


  2. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $211,763
    San Jose boasts a tech-heavy market, making it a hotspot for tech freelancers. Major companies like Google and Intel offer dynamic freelance opportunities. The vibrant community and high demand for skilled contractors provide a robust market for independent work.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in San Jose, CA


  3. New Orleans, LA
    Average Salary: $194,500
    New Orleans offers a unique blend of culture and freelance work. With companies like Entergy and LCMC Health, contractors can find varied opportunities. The city's rich cultural scene and lower cost of living provide an attractive backdrop for independent work.
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  4. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $182,969
    Albany provides a stable environment for contractors with many opportunities in government and education sectors. Companies like New York State and SUNY offer reliable freelance work. The city's rich history and moderate cost of living make it a great place for independent contractors.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in Albany, NY


  5. Little Rock, AR
    Average Salary: $180,844
    Little Rock offers a mix of government and private sector freelance opportunities. Companies such as Alltel and Acxiom provide diverse work options. The lower cost of living and friendly community make it an appealing place for independent work.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in Little Rock, AR


  6. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $179,589
    Buffalo features a mix of manufacturing and healthcare freelance opportunities. Companies like General Dynamics and Kaleida Health offer varied work. The city’s lower cost of living and strong community make it attractive for contractors.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in Buffalo, NY


  7. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $179,427
    New Haven provides a rich environment for academic and healthcare freelancers. Companies such as Yale University and Quinnipiac University offer numerous opportunities. The vibrant cultural scene and moderate cost of living add to its appeal.
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  8. Salt Lake City, UT
    Average Salary: $174,781
    Salt Lake City offers a blend of outdoor and tech freelance opportunities. Companies like Zions Bank and Vivint Solar provide diverse work. The city’s natural beauty and growing economy create a favorable environment for independent contractors.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in Salt Lake City, UT


  9. Billings, MT
    Average Salary: $171,637
    Billings provides a mix of energy and healthcare freelance opportunities. Companies like Billings Clinic and ConocoPhillips offer varied work. The city’s lower cost of living and strong community spirit make it ideal for independent work.
    Find Independent Contractor jobs in Billings, MT


  10. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $171,143
    Fresno offers a mix of agricultural and tech freelance opportunities. Companies like Rabobank and Valvoline provide varied work. The city’s lower cost of living and growing economy make it an appealing place for independent contractors.
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What are the best companies a Independent Contractor can work for?

AFS Logistics stands out as a top choice for independent contractors seeking high-paying opportunities. With an impressive average salary of $336,243, this company offers competitive compensation. Quality Carrier Inc and CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc. also provide attractive pay rates, making them excellent options for those looking to maximize their earnings. Another solid choice is Transpro Burgener, known for its average salary of $250,000. Ryder System, Inc., Bronpe LLC, and Hub Group also offer strong pay packages, rounding out the list of top companies. These firms recognize the value of independent contractors and reward them with substantial compensation.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Independent Contractor jobs, highlighting AFS Logistics with the highest at $336,243 and Temco Logistics with the lowest at $171,711.
  1. AFS Logistics
    Average Salary: $336,243
    AFS Logistics offers independent contractor positions with flexibility and competitive pay. They provide diverse opportunities for contractors to manage their own schedules. Locations include major hubs in the U.S. and Canada.


  2. Quality Carrier Inc
    Average Salary: $294,967
    Quality Carrier Inc values skilled independent contractors. They offer contracts that provide stability and rewarding compensation. This company operates across several states in the U.S.


  3. Quality Carriers Inc
    Average Salary: $279,704
    Quality Carriers Inc is known for its high-paying independent contractor jobs. They provide flexibility and support for contractors working in various locations nationwide.


  4. CRST The Transportation Solution, Inc.
    Average Salary: $263,801
    CRST offers attractive pay for independent contractors. They focus on providing quality services with competitive rates. This company operates throughout the U.S.


  5. Transpro Burgener
    Average Salary: $250,000
    Transpro Burgener offers independent contractor jobs with a strong salary. They provide opportunities for contractors to manage their own routes. The company operates in several key locations across the U.S.


  6. Ryder System, Inc.
    Average Salary: $205,240
    Ryder System, Inc. provides rewarding opportunities for independent contractors. They offer a supportive environment with competitive pay. The company is active in numerous locations across the U.S.


  7. Bronpe LLC
    Average Salary: $195,743
    Bronpe LLC offers independent contractor positions with a good balance of pay and flexibility. They operate in several key markets across the U.S.


  8. Hub Group
    Average Salary: $194,797
    Hub Group provides independent contractors with competitive compensation. They offer flexible work options in various locations across the U.S.


  9. USA Truck, Inc.
    Average Salary: $187,862
    USA Truck, Inc. offers attractive pay for independent contractors. They provide numerous opportunities in major locations across the U.S.


  10. Temco Logistics
    Average Salary: $171,711
    Temco Logistics offers independent contractor jobs with a solid salary. They provide flexibility and support for contractors in various locations nationwide.

How to earn more as a Independent Contractor?

Becoming an independent contractor can offer a great deal of flexibility. It also allows for the potential to earn more than in a traditional job. However, to maximize earnings, certain steps need to be taken. This can make a significant difference in how much one earns.

Contractors must approach their work with a business mindset. Here are several factors that can help contractors earn more.

  1. Skill Diversification: Having multiple skills can make one more valuable. This makes it easier to take on more diverse projects. Contractors should continuously learn and improve their skills. This can open up higher-paying opportunities.
  2. Building a Strong Network: Networking can lead to more job opportunities. Attend industry events, join professional groups, and connect with others online. Good relationships can lead to more work and higher pay.
  3. Setting Competitive Rates: Research the market to set rates that reflect one's value. Contractors should consider their experience and the complexity of the work. Charging fairly ensures a steady income.
  4. Effective Time Management: Using time wisely can lead to more projects. Contractors should prioritize tasks and avoid distractions. Efficient time management can increase productivity and earnings.
  5. Continual Learning and Certification: Obtaining certifications can boost credibility. It can also lead to higher-paying jobs. Contractors should stay updated on industry trends and technologies.

Currently 600 Independent Contractor job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Independent Contractor in the US?

Learn what a Independent Contractor does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Independent Contractor today.
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Independent Contractor
600 Job Openings