If you’re thinking about becoming self-employed but worried the ship has sailed, you’re not alone. Many wonder if they’ve missed the boat and think it’s too late to start freelancing.

But here’s the reality: freelancing is more accessible now than ever before. 

Take me, for example. I have a good few years of freelance experience, but I’m by no means a veteran. I started at a time when most people wouldn’t dare transition to freelancing—and I’m still going!

Now, I won’t say it’s an easy ride. Unlike those get-rich-quick blogs, I believe you do have to put in the work. But it is 100% possible—even in the wake of the AI boom.

Keep reading to learn whether it’s too late to start freelancing, why this is false, and what you need to know as you jump in.

Am I Too Late To Start Freelancing?

Did the title “Am I too late to start freelancing?” grab your attention? You’re not alone.

Maybe you’re new, perhaps you’re mid-career, or even thinking about post-retirement. The good news? There’s no “cutoff” age for freelancing. 

You can transform your current skills into a healthy freelancing career. Cue flexibility, no wage ceiling, and the power of being your own boss. The digital landscape constantly evolves, meaning there’s room for new freelancers at any stage. 

Freelancing is becoming a more viable path for all types of professionals—whether you’re starting in your 20s or your 50s. It just might look a little different than ten years ago. 

Research shows that self-employment declined after 2020. Yet, as of August 2024, there were still 4.23 million freelancers in the UK (where I’m from). So, it’s safe to say that the industry is still alive. 

Writers, photographers, coders, and more. Everyone’s invited to the freelance party!

What Is the Best Age To Start Freelancing?

The best age to start freelancing? There isn’t one. In fact, it would make life a lot easier if there was one — this way, people would know when to start rather than putting off the jump.

Some people take the plunge in their 20s, exploring creative fields like graphic design, writing, or software development. 

I did this. I started my career while at university. It began with a few online writing internships and snowballed into writing for clients through Upwork. 

The first few gigs were for pennies, though. It wasn’t glamorous at the start!

Others transition into freelancing after decades in corporate roles, leveraging years of expertise to offer expert services. There’s no one age you need to be before you begin.

The real question is: are you willing to work?

These days, so many so-called gurus sell freelancing as a passive income scheme. This is only true in rare cases. For the most part, you’ll be doing client work, networking, and marketing yourself and your finances. It can get stressful.

Can I Freelance With No Experience?

Freelancing isn’t an option you unlock after a lengthy career.

Of course, it’s more accessible with proof of your skills, a track record, and an existing network. But it’s not the be-all and end-all!

If you’re inexperienced, consider tapping into transferable skills you already have—things like communication, organization, or technical knowledge. 

There are also tons of online platforms where you can learn new skills quickly, allowing you to pivot and specialize. 

Whether you’re diving into freelance writing, virtual assistance, or web development, clients are often looking for someone reliable and willing to learn. The rates will be lower than those for experienced rolls, but this is to be expected. 

Pro Tip: Never accept less than minimum wage in your location! This can tank the going rates for all freelancers in your industry. Plus, no one wants to work for peanuts. 

Starting as a newbie is all about starting small and building your portfolio. With time and persistence, you’ll develop the expertise and credibility to land higher-paying gigs.

Has AI Killed Freelancing?

You can’t talk about freelancing in 2024 without mentioning AI. 

I’ve seen some of the most talented writers in my field quit over AI. I’ve also been around long enough to have seen the quality of jobs and rates drop due to Chat GPT. 

It’s not pretty. But I’m still here, and so are millions of others. 

Automation and AI tools make some tasks easier, faster, and cheaper. Many of the low-quality content jobs are gone. These tended to be low-paying and badly done anyway. 

So, has AI killed freelancing? Absolutely not.

AI can take over repetitive tasks, but it lacks the creativity, critical thinking, and personalized touch that real people bring to the table. Sure, it can give you a blog outline. But can it talk about personal experiences? Can it offer real-life advice? 

Whether you’re a writer, designer, or strategist, there are certain things only humans can do well—and that’s where freelancers shine.

Adapting to AI as a Freelancer

The main challenge for freelancers is the need to adapt to AI. It would be naive not to investigate this new technology — even if you don’t plan to use it.

Like it or not, thousands of freelancers are starting to use AI. This sometimes results in low-quality content, but for some, it speeds up their workflow and helps them outcompete others. 

This means once you become a freelancer, you’ll also have to compete at some point. 

It’s not a nice thought, but it’s a reality we’ll all face. 

Thankfully, for now, most clients appreciate and are still looking for human freelancers.

Too Late To Start Freelancing – The Takeaway

Ultimately, it’s never too late to dive into freelancing! 

Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience under your belt, freelancing offers endless possibilities. The freelance world is dynamic, flexible, and always evolving—welcoming newcomers and seasoned pros alike. 

Regardless of your age or experience, freelancing is a career choice that can be molded to fit your life. It’s a perfect time to explore the possibilities and make freelancing work for you. 

Learn more about what it means to be a modern freelancer on The Freelance Balance blog.