Top 5+ Freelance Websites for Hiring Developers

When hiring skilled developers, freelance websites are the primary destinations. This article will delve into the top platforms, connecting you with experts capable of turning your ideas into reality, encompassing web design and app development.

Key Takeaways

• Shopify Experts: Designed for those seeking specialized assistance with their Shopify stores, providing vetted experts endorsed by Shopify to enhance your e-commerce presence.
• Upwork: A versatile hub to discover freelancers across diverse domains, well-suited for businesses of all sizes needing a wide array of skills.
• Toptal: Tailored for businesses searching for top-tier software developers, offering a rigorous screening process to ensure high-quality talent.
• 99designs: Ideal for creative endeavors,  allowing you to collaborate with designers on various graphic design tasks and receive customized solutions.
• Fiver: Best fit for modest projects with limited budgets, providing an extensive range of services at affordable rates.
• Squarespace: A design-focused website builder catering to those who desire visually appealing websites without coding knowledge.
• Codeable: A platform catering to WordPress enthusiasts in pursuit of adept developers, offering expertise in custom WordPress site development, themes, and plugins customization.

7 Freelance Websites for Hiring Developers

When looking to hire developers for your projects, consider the following freelance websites:

1. Shopify Experts

Shopify stands out as a premier hosted ecommerce builder, renowned for its user-friendly approach to online store creation. Its strength lies in the expert ecosystem it offers, providing optimization and integration solutions as businesses scale. 

With pre-screened specialists available, Shopify Experts ensures quality and expertise in the Shopify domain, bridging the gap between aspirations and reliable support.

Pricing

The cost of hiring a Shopify expert varies depending on the services they offer. Some experts provide fixed prices for specific projects. For instance, a basic Shopify setup could cost around $500 to $1000, including tasks like store setup and product uploading. More comprehensive packages, covering design customization, SEO optimization, and marketing automation integration, might range from $1000 to $5000. 

These estimates can differ based on expertise and project complexity, and some experts might offer reduced rates for ongoing or multi-project commitments.

When it comes to paying Shopify experts, there are three common methods:

• Hourly Rates: Shopify experts charge between $50 and $150 per hour, with rates influenced by experience.
• Fixed Price Jobs: These experts offer fixed-price jobs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, the cost varying based on project complexity.
• Project-Based Jobs: Customized to your needs, starting a store from scratch might cost $3000 to $5000 through a development company, while freelancers could charge $200 to $500 for the same task

Key Services Offered

Here are the key services offered by Shopify Expert:

• Post Jobs and Wait for Candidates to Apply:

Shopify Experts streamline your hiring process by enabling you to craft customized job listings. After posting, proficient freelancers apply directly, saving you the effort of searching. This method guarantees applications from genuinely interested experts, thereby enhancing the quality of potential candidates.

• Search Engine for Specific Skills:

Shopify’s platform features a robust search engine designed to connect you with freelancers possessing the precise skills required for your project. Whether you seek developers, designers, marketers, or specialists in other fields, this feature enables targeted and efficient talent acquisition.

• Global Freelancer Access:

By connecting with Shopify Experts, you can engage with a global network of freelancers. This expansive reach provides access to diverse talents across regions and cultures, allowing you to harness a wide range of expertise that aligns precisely with your project objectives.

• Past Customer Reviews & Ratings:

In the Shopify Experts ecosystem, transparency takes precedence. The platform offers access to past customer reviews and ratings, providing valuable insights into freelancers’ performance. 

This data allows you to make informed decisions, opting for professionals who have demonstrated their skills and received positive feedback from previous clients. This in turn enhances the probability of successful collaborations.

Best for

A Shopify Expert is perfect for individuals and businesses aiming to establish a strong online presence and achieve e-commerce success. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur looking to create an appealing online store, an established business seeking platform optimization and expansion, or someone needing specialized technical guidance, a Shopify Expert is your reliable resource. 

2. UpWork (previously Elance and oDesk)

Upwork is a renowned freelance platform, especially excelling in IT and development services, particularly for developers. It offers a diverse pool of skilled freelance developers proficient in various programming languages, as well as experts in QA engineering and data science.

Upwork stands out with its ingenious talent recommendation feature, guiding you to the perfect developer for your needs. 

Yet, amidst its strengths, there are some limitations. The bidding feature can complicate hiring at times, and customer service experiences have been inconsistent.

Pricing

When using Upwork to hire contractors, their pricing is straightforward. For $49 per professional per month, you get comprehensive support for organizing and paying contractors worldwide, along with a 3% payment processing fee. Notably, there are no service fees for the individuals you work with. 

For hiring full-time professionals in regions where you lack entities, Upwork offers a solution starting at $199 per professional per month, including a 3% payment processing fee, and no service fees for the talent you bring on board. This streamlined approach ensures you access the expertise you need with a clear pricing structure.

Key Services Offered

Here are the key services offered by Upwork:

• Post Jobs and Wait for Candidates to Apply:

On Upwork, simplifying the hiring process involves crafting tailored job postings. Once posted, capable freelancers submit their applications, saving you from the effort of actively searching for candidates. This method ensures that you connect with individuals who are genuinely interested and possess the necessary qualifications for your project.

• Search Engine for Specific Skills:

Upwork’s search engine is a powerful tool for finding freelancers with finely tuned skillsets. Whether you require coding expertise, design finesse, writing prowess, or proficiency in a particular field, this feature helps you locate professionals whose capabilities align precisely with your project’s demands.

• Global Freelancer Access:

Upwork goes beyond geographic boundaries, offering access to a global network of freelancers. This expansive reach provides you with a diverse pool of talent hailing from different corners of the world, allowing you to select individuals who bring unique perspectives and expertise to the table.

• Past Customer Reviews & Ratings:

Transparency is a cornerstone of Upwork’s approach, as demonstrated by the availability of past customer reviews and ratings. These insights offer a firsthand glimpse into freelancers’ track records, empowering you to assess their performance, reliability, and overall professionalism based on actual interactions with previous clients.

• Standardized Tests for Technical Skills:

Upwork enhances freelancer skills with standardized tests. By validating specific abilities, these tests provide an extra layer of confidence in freelancers’ capabilities. This feature helps you make well-informed decisions that align with your project’s unique requirements.

• Robust Project Management Tools:

Upwork’s project management tools serve as a hub for streamlined collaboration. With the ability to set milestones, engage in seamless communication, monitor time allocation, and visually confirm progress, this unified platform enhances your ability to oversee projects efficiently, fostering a smoother workflow.

Best for

Upwork serves a range of purposes effectively. It’s perfect for newcomers to online freelance management, providing a supportive platform for beginners. Additionally, it offers valuable tools for overseeing larger projects with extended timelines. If security and accountability are your priorities, Upwork ensures a secure collaborative environment. 

Furthermore, it simplifies the management of freelancer teams, leading to enhanced productivity.

3. Toptal

Toptal shines as a beacon for top-tier talent in software development and consultancy. It’s the preferred marketplace for exceptional software experts, from developers to consultants, sought after by renowned companies and startups alike. 

Unlike the challenges of traditional talent acquisition, Toptal offers a solution through its stringent selection process, ensuring that only the top 3% of freelancers are accepted. When you partner with Toptal, you can rely on them as a dependable recruitment ally, guiding you to find and secure trusted professionals. 

Additionally, Toptal’s strong online presence and impressive client base further solidify its reputation as a leader in the realm of elite talent acquisition.

Pricing

Toptal allows freelancers to set unique rates based on their skills and experience, generally ranging from $90 to $170/hr for developers. Unlike some platforms, Toptal has a straightforward fee structure without extra charges beyond the hourly rate.  A $500 deposit is required to begin a project, offering protection against potential scams and transforming into your first payment upon collaboration.

Toptal also provides a 14-day trial period with new freelancers, refundable if needed. While mainly catering to enterprises, individuals looking for top-tier talent can also find value in Toptal’s offerings.

Key Service Offered

Here are the key services offered by Toptal:

• Coding Expertise:

Toptal acts as a gateway to outstanding coding professionals skilled in various programming languages. These experts handle intricate coding challenges, create inventive software solutions, and materialize your digital ideas. Whether for back-end, front-end, or full-stack tasks, Toptal’s coding experts guarantee the seamless realization of your technical visions.

• Web Programming Mastery:

Armed with a profound grasp of web technologies, these experts skillfully design flawless websites and web applications. They effortlessly transform your ideas into fully operational online platforms, skillfully blending aesthetics and functionality to ensure outstanding user experiences.

• UI & UX Design Brilliance:

Toptal’s UI & UX design specialists elevate user engagement and satisfaction. Going beyond aesthetics, they delve into user behavior and psychology to create interfaces that are both visually appealing and user-centric. 

Through close collaboration, they ensure your digital products evoke positive emotions and facilitate seamless interactions, ultimately boosting your brand’s digital presence.

Best For

Toptal is the perfect option for those embarking on high-budget projects that demand the expertise of experienced professional developers. If your project’s complexity and scale require top-notch coding skills and strategic technological insights, Toptal’s handpicked pool of elite freelancers is specifically designed to fulfill your needs. 

By connecting you with seasoned professionals, Toptal ensures that your ambitious project receives the precision and proficiency it demands, setting the stage for unparalleled success.

4. 99designs

99designs is a vibrant marketplace where talented designers compete to bring your graphic projects to life. This platform offers a spectrum of professionals specializing in crafting captivating visuals for various needs, including logos, apparel, artworks, and advertising banners. 

What differentiates this service is its innovative approach: upon project posting, you receive upfront designs from multiple skilled designers, and you only pay when satisfied, eliminating financial concerns.

Furthermore, for consistent design needs, 99designs offers the Pro Service, akin to an in-house coordinator for your design ventures.

Pricing

To meet a range of needs, 99designs presents three pricing options. Individuals and smaller businesses can choose from fixed-price content packages or enjoy a personalized one-on-one designer experience. 

Content packages offer consistent prices, like the bronze tier at $199 for business cards and $299 for magazine covers. Negotiating with designers allows customized engagement, though pricing varies based on project type. 

The 99designs Pro subscription enhances agency efficiency through dedicated account management and seamless collaboration with freelance designers at $500 per year. 

Key Service Offered

Here are the key services offered by 99designs:

• Effortless Project Posting:

You can begin your creative journey effortlessly on 99designs by posting your project’s unique requirements. The platform’s user-friendly interface ignites a dynamic process where skilled freelancers actively contribute their imaginative interpretations. 

This streamlined approach propels your project from conceptualization to tangible fruition, minimizing complexities and maximizing efficiency.

• Precision Skill Search Engine:

Navigating the diverse design landscape becomes a breeze with 99designs’ advanced search engine. With this tool, you can customize your search to find freelancers with specialized skills that match your project’s intricate requirements. 

Whether you’re pursuing logo design, web programming, or artwork creation, you’ll connect with professionals who closely align with your creative vision.

• Global Talent Access:

Harness the power of global creativity as 99designs transcends geographical boundaries, offering you access to a diverse spectrum of design talent. This expansive network ensures collaboration with professionals whose perspectives span cultures and continents.

• Informed Decision Making:

When navigating your freelancer selection process, provide insights from previous customer reviews and ratings. You can take a deep dive into the profiles of freelancers to gather comprehensive information about their work ethics, communication proficiency, and project management skills. 

This informed approach empowers you to choose professionals best suited for your project’s unique requirements.

• Robust Secure Payment Platform:

You can elevate your financial security by utilizing 99designs’ robust payment platform. This feature ensures the protection of every transaction, safeguarding your sensitive information from potential vulnerabilities. 

When you engage in payment exchanges with freelancers, you can rest assured that the platform maintains your financial integrity, thereby enhancing your overall experience.

Best For

Ideal for those seeking transparency in the hiring process, 99designs offers unmatched clarity when selecting designers. With the ability to explore multiple designs and pay only for the perfect fit, it minimizes financial risks and guarantees satisfaction. 

The platform suits diverse project scopes, catering to both small-scale and extensive design projects. Additionally, its design advisory service provides expert guidance for informed decisions aligning with your project vision. 

Especially for long-term design needs, 99designs’ Pro service lets you establish a dedicated design team, freeing time for other business aspects.

5. Fiverr

Fiverr introduces a fresh approach to freelancer hiring, revolutionizing the conventional process. Instead of waiting for applicants, Fiverr empowers designers and developers to showcase their specialties through posted job types they excel, from crafting logos to creating animations and book covers.

This upfront perspective eliminates guesswork and offers a diverse array of designers for specific services, each profiled with essential insights such as customer ratings, professional background, project types, and completion times. 

Moreover, Fiverr simplifies hiring by providing preset job options, enabling confident orders akin to online marketplaces. This transparent and convenient method transforms the way you engage freelancers for creative projects.

Pricing

Fiverr stands out for its affordability, making it an appealing option for those seeking cost-effective solutions. Many services, known as “gigs,” are priced as low as $5 USD, and it’s worth considering that quality work can be found at this price point. To ensure value for money, assessing sellers based on their past work and reviews is essential. 

Fiverr’s pricing structure is straightforward: there’s a $2 USD flat fee added for purchases up to $40 USD, making a $5 USD service cost $7 USD. Beyond $40 USD, the fee increases to 5% of the purchase amount, which remains reasonable compared to other platforms. This transparent system allows for effective budgeting while exploring the diverse range of services available on Fiverr.

Key Service Offered

Here are the key services offered by Fiver:

• Search Engine for Precise Skill Match

With Fiverr’s specialized search engine, you gain the ability to locate freelancers possessing the exact skills your project demands. This unique tool guarantees connection with professionals proficient in the specific services you need. 

By entering targeted keywords or skills, you promptly access a varied pool of freelancers who possess the expertise needed to bring your creative vision to life.

• Global Access to Freelancers

Fiverr breaks geographical boundaries by offering access to freelancers from around the world. This expansive network allows you to explore a diverse pool of creative talents and collaborate with professionals whose unique perspectives can elevate your projects.

The platform’s global reach enhances your options, enabling you to discover the perfect match.

• Secure Payment Platform

Fiverr ensures your security through a secure payment platform, creating a protected environment for freelancer interactions and transactions. With a dedicated commitment to safeguarding sensitive information, Fiverr guarantees reliable payment processing, enhancing your experience while collaborating on creative projects with freelancers.

Best For

Fiverr’s versatile platform caters to a variety of needs, making it an ideal choice for various scenarios.  For small or one-off jobs that require prompt attention, Fiverr’s diverse freelancers can assist without long-term commitments. 

If you have a limited budget, Fiverr offers cost-effective solutions for quality results. For time-sensitive projects, Fiverr’s streamlined process connects you with freelancers who can quickly address your needs. 

Especially, with a robust review system and secure payment platform, Fiverr is attractive for those seeking transparency, accountability, and reliable results in collaborations with designers or developers.

6. Squarespace

Squarespace shines as a leading drag-and-drop website builder, renowned for its design aesthetics. Its captivating templates create visually appealing websites without the need for coding. Despite its user-friendly nature, Squarespace’s extensive customization potential can be overlooked. 

The Squarespace Marketplace offers Squarespace Experts—vetted designers from the professional user community—who enhance websites through deeper customization possibilities. This resource enriches the Squarespace experience beyond its drag-and-drop interface.

Pricing

Pricing for SquareSpace developer services can vary based on several factors, influencing the expertise and quality of work you receive.

For reference, typical rates charged by SquareSpace developers on platforms like Upwork are as follows:

• Beginner: $25 per hour
• Intermediate: $47 per hour
• Advanced: $100 per hour

Key Services Offered

Here are the key services offered by Squarespace:

• Search Engine for Freelancers with Specific Skills: 

Within Squarespace’s platform, a search engine enables users to discover freelancers with specialized skills, proving particularly valuable for those seeking specific expertise to enhance their websites. 

By linking users with freelancers possessing the requisite skills, Squarespace streamlines the process of finding the ideal talent for precise design or development needs.

• Global Access to Freelancers: 

Squarespace provides users with access to a global network of freelancers, spanning different regions and offering the chance to connect with professionals worldwide. 

This global reach creates opportunities for collaboration with freelancers who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and creative insights. 

Best for

Squarespace’s marketplace provides access to experienced developers who can help you achieve specialized website goals. Whether it’s improving design elements, enhancing functionality, or optimizing performance, hiring a Squarespace developer can bring your vision to life and elevate your online presence.

• Limited Coding Skills: If you lack coding expertise and need to enhance your Squarespace website’s functionality or design, hiring a developer through the platform is a suitable solution. This allows for specific customizations without requiring in-depth coding knowledge on your part.
• E-Commerce Enhancement: For e-commerce enterprises, bringing in a developer can optimize your online store’s operations. They specialize in integrating third-party tools, refining the checkout process, and ensuring your store is responsive and user-friendly.
• Responsive Design: If you want to ensure your website is fully responsive and displays correctly on various devices and screen sizes, a developer can change your site’s responsiveness and resolve any compatibility issues.
• Custom Feature Implementation: When you require unique features or functionalities that aren’t available in Squarespace’s built-in options, hiring a developer allows you to integrate custom solutions that cater to your specific needs.

7. Codeable

The final entry in our list is Codeable, a dynamic platform catering to WordPress users in search of expert assistance. Connecting users with top-tier developers and designers, Codeable excels as a prime avenue for hiring WordPress experts.

Notably, the developers and designers on Codeable offer exceptional skills and extensive knowledge, delivering premium services without the high costs associated with traditional agencies. Codeable’s money-back guarantee underscores their commitment to quality work. 

The platform redefines freelancer hiring with convenient features like escrow accounts, individualized pricing, and tailored estimates. This approach ensures competitive rates for outstanding work, avoiding the complexities of bid-based systems. 

For entrepreneurs seeking efficient contract work without the hassle, Codeable offers a versatile and budget-friendly choice. Opting for Codeable allows you to focus on your core business by freeing yourself from the burden of supervising freelancers and managing applications.

Pricing

Codeable’s pricing structure is tailored to your project’s scope and complexity, increasing with intricacy. Our suggested rates range from USD $80 to $120 per hour, based on hours, complexity, and urgency. 

You also receive a consolidated price that’s realistic and competitive, encompassing a 17.5% service charge and safeguards through secure escrow. 

Key Services Offered

Here are the key services offered byCodeable:

• Custom WordPress Site Development: 

Codeable specializes in crafting tailored WordPress websites that align with your unique vision and business goals. Their experts possess the skills to create fully customized, responsive, and feature-rich websites from the ground up, ensuring a seamless user experience and effective online presence.

• Themes Customization: 

Codeable’s developers expertly customize WordPress themes to align with your brand identity and design preferences. From minor tweaks to extensive modifications, they enhance your chosen theme’s appearance and functionality to meet your needs.

• Plugins Customization: 

Codeable’s experts are adept at extending the capabilities of your WordPress site through custom plugin development and customization. They can create bespoke plugins to add specific functionalities, integrate third-party tools, and optimize your website’s performance according to your needs.

Best for

Codeable is a prime choice for businesses and individuals with substantial WordPress development projects. If you’re aiming for a sophisticated, fully customized website, Codeable’s top-tier developers can deliver. Their expertise in handling complex projects ensures a high-quality and visually appealing outcome. 

For those valuing premium services and able to invest in top-notch WordPress solutions, Codeable offers the perfect environment to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s a corporate site, e-commerce platform, or other high-budget projects, Codeable’s platform excels.

Choosing the Right Site to Hire a Website Designer

When it comes to choosing the right platform for hiring a website designer, taking a closer look at specific aspects can help you make an informed decision. Let’s delve into each factor with more detail:

• Rating System: An essential tool for assessing designers, the rating system allows you to examine past work, read feedback, and measure overall reputation, providing insights into expected quality and helping narrow options effectively.
• Skill Verification: Platforms that rigorously verify designers’ expertise ensure engagement with professionals possessing required skills through assessments, tests, or portfolio evaluations, instilling confidence in fulfilling design needs.
• Personalized Matchmaking: Beyond a designer directory, seek platforms offering personalized matchmaking based on project specifics, pairing you with designers whose skills match your requirements. This approach enhances the likelihood of finding a designer who understands and executes your vision effectively.
• Customer Service: Effective customer service can significantly impact your hiring experience. Platforms with responsive support can address any inquiries or concerns you may have promptly, ensuring a smoother process from the initial search for a designer to the successful completion of your project.
• Time Tracking: Time tracking tools provide transparency and accountability in projects, enabling task progress monitoring and time allocation. This promotes clear communication, keeping the project aligned with your expectations.
• Payment Management: Smooth payment management is crucial for a seamless transaction process. Platforms with secure payment methods, transparent pricing, and clear invoicing foster trust between you and the designer, ensuring professional and transparent handling of financial matters.

Best Practices for Hiring a Freelance Developer

Hiring a freelance developer is a strategic process that requires careful consideration to ensure a successful collaboration. Here are some essential best practices to guide you:

• Define Project Requirements: Prior to seeking a freelance developer, it’s essential to grasp your project’s requirements. Outline objectives, functionalities, technical specifics, and desired tools or platforms to communicate expectations and receive tailored proposals accurately.
• Review the Developer’s Portfolio and Examples of Work: Assessing a developer’s portfolio and past projects is vital when hiring. It reveals their skills, coding style, and successful project types. This insight helps gauge if their expertise matches your project’s needs and complexity.
• Establish a Reliable Relationship and Build Trust: Successful collaboration with a freelance developer relies on trust and effective communication. Establishing consistent communication methods like regular updates and discussions fosters better understanding of goals and expectations.

Freelance Websites for Developers:  FAQ

Bottom Line

When seeking skilled developers for your projects, the right freelance website can be your gateway to a pool of talented professionals. Consider your project’s unique requirements, budget, and desired level of expertise when selecting a platform.