The Belgian freelance market in numbers (2026)

The Belgian freelance market has been growing steadily for years. But how big exactly is that market? Who are these freelancers? And where do the challenges lie? Let's dive into the numbers.

More than 200,000 freelancers

Flanders and Brussels together have more than 208,000 active freelancers (SERV, 2024). In Flanders alone, the SERV in 2024 counted almost 170,000 freelancers. For comparison, in 2015 that number was still 119,000 (SERV). That's growth of more than 70% in less than ten years.

This growth is structural, not cyclical. More and more professionals are consciously choosing self-employment. Not because they can't find a job, but because they want more autonomy, flexibility and control over their career.

The profile: highly educated and experienced

The typical Belgian freelancer is highly educated. The UNIZO Freelancer Focus Report 2023 shows that 80% hold a bachelor's or master's degree. These aren't side hustlers, but professionals who consciously build their career outside traditional structures.

The most common sectors are IT and digital, consulting, marketing and communications, finance, and engineering. Precisely the sectors where specialist knowledge is scarce and companies increasingly look externally.

87% would choose freelancing again

This might be the most telling figure of all. Despite the challenges of self-employment, the vast majority would choose freelancing again (UNIZO Freelancer Focus Report, 2023). The freedom, the variety of projects and the ability to set your own rate outweigh the uncertainties.

But 49% are worried

Almost half of freelancers worry about finding enough projects (UNIZO, 2023). This uncertainty is especially felt by freelancers with less than 3 years of experience. Administrative burdens, pension savings and setting a fair rate are also recurring concerns.

These are exactly the pain points Lancr wants to solve. With rate benchmarks, you always know where you stand. With a verified profile, you get found more easily. And with matched projects from partners like Connecting-Expertise, the work comes to you.

Rates: what does the market ask?

The average day rate in Belgium is around 510 euros excluding VAT (Connecting-Expertise Barometer, 2024). But the spread is wide. Junior profiles start around 350 euros per day. Mid-level consultants sit between 500 and 700 euros. Seniors and specialists bill 700 to 950 euros and more (Connecting-Expertise Barometer, 2024).

Notably, the Connecting-Expertise Barometer 2024 shows the number of projects is rising, but rates are under pressure. That makes it all the more important to know your market value and keep your profile sharp.

What does this mean for you?

The market is large, growing and competitive. The freelancers who make the difference are the ones investing in their visibility, credibility and positioning. Verification, market data and the right network are no longer a luxury. They're a necessity.

Sources: SERV Freelancer Monitor 2024; UNIZO Freelancer Focus Report 2023; Connecting-Expertise Barometer 2024.