How Many Gig Workers Are There in The World in 2024? (Statistics)

The world has witnessed a significant transformation in the way people work.

Traditional nine-to-five jobs have given way to a new era of flexibility and independence, fueled by the rapid growth of the gig economy. 

Among the burning questions that arise when exploring this dynamic landscape is: “How many gig workers are there in the world?”

Find out the answer in this article.

Key Statistics

• There are 1.57 billion gig workers around the world
• 63% of gig workers said that they entered the gig economy because the portfolio of clients is more reliable than one employer
• Upwork is the leading global freelance platform, having a 9% market share
• The dominant age range in gig workers is 25-34 years old (48% of freelancers)
• The gig economy generated $204 billion in gross volume worldwide
• The United States experienced a 78% revenue growth in its gig economy, the highest among countries worldwide 
• 82% of gig workers said they are happier to work independently

How Many Gig Workers Are There in the World?

Exactly how many gig workers are there in the world?

Recent estimates reveal that there are 1.57 billion gig workers around the world out of the 3.38 billion individuals comprising the global workforce. 

These staggering figures highlight the profound impact and widespread reach of the gig economy.

They amount to almost half of the global workforce, highlights the immense scale and impact of gig workers across diverse industries. 

From graphic designers and writers to consultants and software developers, freelancers offer their skills and expertise to clients on a project basis, allowing for greater flexibility and autonomy in their work lives.

Why Do People Work in the Gig Economy

Here’s a fascinating snapshot of gig workers’ motivations to work in a gig economy: 

• 63% of gig workers entered because the portfolio of clients is more reliable than one employer
• 57% of gig workers entered because they earn more money
• 46% of gig workers entered because they can create flexible schedules
• 35% of gig workers entered because they can have a better life and work balance

What is Freelancing?

Freelancing is a form of self-employment where people offer their services on a project basis to clients or businesses.

Unlike traditional employment, freelancers are not bound by long-term contracts or fixed working hours.

Instead, they have the flexibility to choose their projects, set their rates, and determine their own schedules.

Diversity in Freelancing

One of the defining aspects of freelancing is its diverse range of industries and professions.

Freelancers can be found in various fields such as writing, graphic design, software development, consulting, marketing, and many more.

Their expertise and skills span a wide spectrum, allowing them to cater to the specific needs of clients across different sectors.

Three Leading Freelance Platforms Worldwide

1. Upwork

Upwork is the leading global freelance platform, has emerged as a dominant player in the industry by having a 9% market share.

What makes Upwork special is its wide range of services.

Whether businesses need web development, design, writing, marketing, or consulting, they can find qualified professionals on Upwork. 

2. Toptal

Toptal is another major player in the freelance platform market, closely trails Upwork with an 8% market share.

Toptal distinguishes itself by focusing on top-tier talent, offering a curated network of highly skilled freelancers, particularly in the fields of software development, design, and finance.

3. Fiverr

Fiverr, holding a 5% market share, has carved out its niche by emphasizing affordability and quick project turnaround times.

Fiverr’s platform predominantly caters to smaller projects and tasks that can be completed within a shorter time frame. 

Global Freelancers By Age

Let’s explore the age distribution within the freelance community through this data:

• 48% of freelancers are in the age range of 25-34 years old
• 23% of freelancers are in the age range of 35-44 years old
• 16% of freelancers are in the age range of 18-24 years old
• 9% of freelancers are in the age range of 45-54 years old
• 5% of freelancers are in the age range of 55+ years old

What is the Global Economic Impact of the Gig Economy?

The gig economy has become a significant contributor to the global economy, generating substantial revenue and showing no signs of slowing down.

According to a survey conducted, the gig economy generates a staggering $204 billion in gross volume worldwide.

Gig Economy Annual Growth Rate

The survey also indicates that the gross volume is expected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17%.

By 2023, it is projected to reach approximately $455 billion.

This anticipated growth reflects the increasing popularity of gig work across various industries and the expanding global reach of freelance platforms.

Which Countries Have the Biggest Revenue Growth in the Gig Economy?

Take a closer look at the remarkable growth trends in the gig economy across different countries in this list:

• United States experienced an annual revenue growth of 78% in its gig economy
• United Kingdom experienced an annual revenue growth of 59% in its gig economy
• Brazil experienced an annual revenue growth of 48% in its gig economy
• Pakistan experienced an annual revenue growth of 47% in its gig economy
• Ukraine experienced an annual revenue growth of 36% in its gig economy
• Philippines experienced an annual revenue growth of 35% in its gig economy
• India experienced an annual revenue growth of 29% in its gig economy
• Bangladesh experienced an annual revenue growth of 27% in its gig economy

The Benefits of Working in the Gig Economy

Working in the gig economy has proven to have a significant positive impact on the overall well-being and satisfaction of gig workers.

According to recent gig economy research, a remarkable 82% of gig workers express a higher level of happiness when working independently.

The same research indicates that 69% of the freelance workforce believes that working in the gig economy positively influences their overall well-being and that 53% of gig workers feel more secure working on their own compared to having a traditional job.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading this article about how many gig workers are there in the world.

The gig economy has witnessed a remarkable surge worldwide, with there being 1.57 billion gig workers around the world. 

The motivations behind entering the gig economy range from the reliability of a client portfolio and increased earnings to the ability to create flexible schedules and achieve a better work-life balance.

With its emphasis on freelancing and project-based work, the gig economy has empowered millions of workers worldwide to take control of their careers and find fulfillment in their professional lives. 

Sources

Related posts:

NEW Freelance Statistics 2024: Facts & Trends! 16+ Surprising Gig Economy Statistics in 2024 Upwork Statistics 2024: Revenue, Users & Growth How Many Gig Workers Are There in The US in 2024? (Statistics)