How much does a Independent Contractor make?
Independent contractors often have varied incomes based on the type of work they do and their expertise. The average yearly salary for an independent contractor stands at $120,146. This figure can change a lot depending on the contractor's field and experience.
Here are some details on the salary distribution for independent contractors:
- About 24.05% make $19,500 or less each year.
- 18.66% earn between $19,500 and $46,091.
- 8.75% fall in the range of $46,091 to $72,682.
- 6.23% earn between $72,682 and $99,273.
- 6.68% make between $99,273 and $125,864.
- 2.72% earn from $125,864 to $152,455.
- 5.54% fall in the range of $152,455 to $179,045.
- 9.78% make from $179,045 to $205,636.
- 1.55% earn between $205,636 and $232,227.
- 7.74% have an income from $232,227 to $258,818.
- 3.31% fall in the range of $258,818 to $285,409.
- The top earners, making over $285,409, make up just a small part of the total.
What are the highest paying cities for a Independent Contractor?

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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $220,749
Fresno offers a vibrant market for independent contractors, with many opportunities in tech and agriculture. Companies like Cisco Systems and Raley's provide avenues for freelancers to thrive. The city’s growing tech sector and agricultural base make it a promising place for those seeking flexibility.
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Clarksville, TN
Average Salary: $195,732
In Clarksville, independent contractors enjoy a mix of military and civilian job opportunities. With employers like Fort Campbell and local businesses, the environment is supportive for freelancers. The town's economy benefits from its proximity to major military installations, providing steady work for skilled contractors.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $193,951
Fayetteville boasts a dynamic job scene for independent contractors, particularly in healthcare and education. Notable employers include Washington Regional Medical Center and the University of Arkansas. The city's growing population and institutions create a steady demand for freelance services.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $188,650
New Orleans provides a unique atmosphere for independent contractors, with opportunities in tourism and entertainment. Companies like Entergy and Freeport-McMoRan offer diverse avenues. The city's rich cultural scene and tourism industry mean there's always work for creative and skilled freelancers.
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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $180,271
Springfield offers a stable environment for independent contractors, with prominent opportunities in healthcare and insurance. Companies like MassMutual and Baystate Health create a steady demand. The city’s strong economic base and healthcare sector provide reliable work for skilled professionals.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $179,333
Bakersfield is a city on the rise for independent contractors, with strong opportunities in oil and gas. Companies like Chevron and Baker Hughes offer numerous avenues. The city’s economic focus on energy and agriculture creates a steady flow of work for skilled contractors.
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Little Rock, AR
Average Salary: $173,254
Little Rock offers a mix of opportunities for independent contractors, particularly in healthcare and education. Employers like Arkansas Blue Cross and the University of Arkansas create a stable demand. The city's growing economy and educational institutions provide reliable work for skilled freelancers.
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Rockford, IL
Average Salary: $171,403
Rockford provides a solid environment for independent contractors, with opportunities in manufacturing and healthcare. Companies like OSF HealthCare and Rockford Industries offer many options. The city’s strong industrial base and healthcare sector create steady demand for skilled professionals.
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Omaha, NE
Average Salary: $171,143
Omaha offers a balanced market for independent contractors, with opportunities in finance and healthcare. Employers like Berkshire Hathaway and Nebraska Medicine create many avenues. The city’s strong economic diversity and healthcare needs provide reliable work for skilled freelancers.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $168,247
Fargo presents a steady environment for independent contractors, with opportunities in finance and retail. Companies like Wells Fargo and Scheels provide many options. The city’s strong economy and retail sector create consistent work for skilled professionals.
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What are the best companies a Independent Contractor can work for?

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Vituity
Average Salary: $326,154
Vituity offers Independent Contractor jobs across the U.S. They provide healthcare services and seek skilled professionals for various positions. They operate in many states, including Texas, California, and Florida.
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Quality Carriers
Average Salary: $280,215
Quality Carriers is a transportation company based in Dallas. They hire Independent Contractors for trucking and logistics. They offer competitive pay and work in multiple states, including Texas, California, and New York.
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Transpro Burgener
Average Salary: $250,000
Transpro Burgener provides transportation services across the U.S. They hire Independent Contractors for driving and logistics. The company operates in states like Texas, California, and Illinois.
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Diakon Logistics
Average Salary: $241,429
Diakon Logistics offers logistics and transportation services. They hire Independent Contractors for driving and logistics. The company operates in states such as Texas, California, and Ohio.
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TransAm Trucking
Average Salary: $216,081
TransAm Trucking provides transportation services across the U.S. They hire Independent Contractors for various trucking roles. They work in states such as Texas, California, and Pennsylvania.
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Maersk
Average Salary: $213,938
Maersk is a global shipping and logistics company. They hire Independent Contractors for logistics and transportation. Maersk operates in multiple countries, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Hub Group
Average Salary: $200,242
Hub Group provides freight transportation and logistics services. They hire Independent Contractors for driving and logistics. The company operates in states like Texas, California, and Illinois.
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Ryder System
Average Salary: $190,875
Ryder System offers transportation and logistics services. They hire Independent Contractors for various roles in the transportation industry. They operate in multiple states, including Florida, California, and Texas.
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USA Truck
Average Salary: $187,862
USA Truck provides freight transportation services. They hire Independent Contractors for driving and logistics. The company operates in states such as Texas, California, and Ohio.
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FIDELITONE
Average Salary: $175,585
FIDELITONE offers logistics and transportation services. They hire Independent Contractors for driving and logistics. The company operates in states like Texas, California, and Florida.
How to earn more as a Independent Contractor?
Independent contractors have the opportunity to earn more by taking certain steps. They can increase their income by honing their skills and expanding their service offerings. This approach not only adds value but also attracts more clients willing to pay a premium. Building a strong reputation and network also plays a crucial role in securing higher-paying opportunities.
Client satisfaction and reliable performance can lead to repeat business and referrals. Contractors should always aim to deliver quality work on time, fostering long-term relationships. Here are some key factors that can help independent contractors earn more:
- Skill Development: Continuously learning and improving skills can lead to higher rates.
- Service Expansion: Offering additional services can attract more clients and increase income.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to more job opportunities.
- Client Satisfaction: Ensuring high-quality work and meeting deadlines can lead to repeat business.
- Professional Reputation: A strong reputation can help contractors command higher fees.



