The UK's self-employed landscape is in a state of flux. As of August 2025, the United Kingdom had 4.42 million individuals working for themselves.

While that's a huge number of people, it's a noticeable drop from the pre-pandemic peak of 4.88 million in late 2019. Today, the self-employed make up 12.4% of the UK labour force, down from 15.5% before the pandemic.

From a macro perspective, one might still assume that self-employment offers a plentiful amount of prosperous job opportunities. However, when we assess the reality found in figures on self-employed income levels, a slightly less pretty picture emerges.

A persistent income gap exists between the self-employed and their employed counterparts. Between 2019 and 2023, self-employed individuals continued to earn 32% less than employees. An earlier study by the Institute for Fiscal Studies painted a similar picture, finding that the median pre-tax earnings of the solo self-employed were 30% lower than employees' in 2018-19.

From this, it doesn't exactly sound like the road to vocational independence is paved with gold.

But don't be disheartened! There are self-employed jobs that will pay you big-bucks - you just need to know where to look.

In this article, we'll show you exactly where the green grass on the other side of the employment fence can be found.

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The highest-paid self-employed jobs

We've compiled a list of some of the best-paying jobs for self-employed workers based on typical annual pre-tax earnings for 2025/26.

And remember, these are profitable self-employed jobs. Hence they require minimal ongoing expenditure to perform.

Clearly, there are many manual and creative jobs that are highly paid, like a make-up artist, gas engineer, or construction worker. But these often incur significant costs for equipment and materials which eats into your net income.

So we have selected jobs you could realistically retrain or learn to do, with salary bands you could reach within a few years. Some of them might surprise you!

1. Solicitor (£22,000 - £3,000,000+)

Solicitors provide essential legal services, advising clients, preparing documents, and representing them in legal matters. While the path requires significant training, the financial rewards can be immense.

Earnings vary dramatically based on experience, location, and specialism. Trainees in regional firms might start between £22,000 and £50,000, but their London counterparts can exceed £40,000. Once qualified, a solicitor at a top firm in London could start at £180,000. For those who reach the top, partners in regional firms can earn over £100,000, while equity partners in the most prestigious firms can see their income soar to £3 million or more.

This career is accessible with a law conversion-course and a period of practical training, such as the Legal Practice Course (LPC) in England and Wales.

2. AI/Machine Learning Specialist (£52,000 - £159,500+)

As businesses race to adopt artificial intelligence, the demand for AI and Machine Learning (ML) specialists has exploded. These professionals design and build the intelligent systems that are reshaping industries.

This is a field where freelance work truly shines. The median daily rate for a freelance ML Engineer is a staggering £725. Based on a standard 220-day working year, that translates to a potential annual income of around £159,500. Contract roles in London for lead engineers can command even more, from £750 to £900 per day. Even for those in permanent roles, the median salary is a healthy £80,000.

3. Digital Marketing Consultant (£39,000 - £102,000)

Digital marketing consultants are the strategic minds behind a company's online presence, covering everything from SEO and social media to paid advertising.

While average base salaries are reported around £39,595, the real money is in freelancing. Experienced consultants with over 15 years in the game can charge an average daily rate of €466 (around £395). Working steadily, this could lead to annual earnings between £78,000 and £102,000. Specialists can earn even more, with freelance PPC (Pay-Per-Click) experts charging £50-£200 per hour.

4. Software Developer (£60,000 - £95,000+)

Software developers are the architects of the digital world, designing and building the applications we use every day. With the tech industry's relentless growth, skilled developers are in constant high demand.

The UK-wide median salary for a software developer is £60,000. As a freelancer or contractor, your location and experience play a huge role. In London, the median salary range is £70,000 to £95,000, while senior-level developers across the UK can expect to earn between £59,000 and £95,000.

5. Copywriter (£27,000 - £81,000+)

Copywriters craft compelling content for everything from websites and ads to emails and social media. It's a career that blends creativity with marketing strategy, and the rise of digital media has made skilled writers more valuable than ever.

Earnings vary significantly by location. In London, the average salary is around £39,699, but top earners can pull in over £81,000. Freelancers often charge by the day or hour, with average day rates around £440, and experienced writers commanding £500 or more.

Want more tips on making money by writing online? Be sure to check out our money-making writing guide.

6. Personal Trainer (£25,000 - £45,000)

Personal trainers help clients achieve their fitness goals through customised exercise plans and nutritional guidance. It's a flexible career with opportunities to work independently in gyms, parks, or with clients online.

As a self-employed trainer, your income is tied to your ability to build and retain a client base. The typical annual earnings range from £25,000 to £45,000. Your earnings can increase with experience, specialisations (like rehabilitation or sports performance), and by working in high-income areas like London.

7. Dog Trainer (£30,000 - £50,000+)

For those with a passion for pets, dog training can be a rewarding and profitable venture. Trainers teach dogs obedience and help owners manage behavioural issues.

The average annual salary for a dog trainer in the UK is £30,041. However, experienced trainers can earn between £30,000 and £50,000, and those with specialisms like service dog training can earn over £50,000 per year. As a freelancer, you can charge per session, with typical rates falling between £30 and £100.

8. Online therapist (£28,000 - £50,000)

Online therapists provide mental health services via digital platforms, offering convenience and accessibility to clients. Qualifications typically include a degree or diploma in psychology or counselling, followed by licensure. 

The demand for mental health services has surged, particularly for online offerings. This career path offers the potential for a flexible work environment and a broad client base.

9. Web Designer (£28,000 - £37,000)

Web designers create visually appealing and user-friendly websites, requiring a blend of technical skills and creativity.

With businesses increasingly valuing their online presence, demand for skilled designers remains high.

Training typically involves courses in graphic design and coding, with the potential for self-taught individuals to succeed. Freelance opportunities can offer higher earnings and flexibility.

10. Photographer (£17,000 - £45,000)

Photographers capture moments and concepts through their lenses, working across various genres like weddings, corporate events, or fashion.

The profession can be entered through both formal education and self-taught pathways, with a strong portfolio being crucial to success.

Demand varies by specialty, with freelance work offering the potential for higher earnings as reputation and expertise grow.

Self-made success. Where passion meets profit

The allure of self-employment remains strong, offering both freedom and the potential for substantial earnings.

Our exploration of these highly profitable self-employed jobs highlights diverse opportunities across the tech, legal, marketing, and wellness sectors.

And it shows that it is possible to escape the rat race and find profitable alternative means of earning a decent living. From AI specialists to solicitors, these roles not only promise financial rewards but also the chance to carve out a fulfilling career on your own terms, making self-employment a viable and lucrative path for those ready to take the leap.