Self-employed but broke? Why freedom is becoming expensive for many

More freedom, less security - welcome to the reality of freelancers

For many, being self-employed sounds like the big dream: no boss, free time management, working from anywhere. However, everyday life for many freelancers in Germany looks very different - an uncertain order situation, stagnating fees and growing dissatisfaction are no longer the exception, but the rule.

Whether you're a graphic designer, copywriter or IT consultant, becoming self-employed is a bold step - but no longer automatically the most lucrative.

The gender pay gap remains a persistent problem

Female freelancers continue to earn less than their male colleagues - regardless of industry or experience. According to data from freelance.de, the average hourly rate for men is 102 euros and for women only 94 euros. This corresponds to a gender pay gap of 11 percent.

There is a little hope: according to the competitor Freelancermap, the gap is narrowing to just three percent - where men earn an average of 105 euros and women 102 euros. But regardless of which statistic you believe more, the fact is that the difference is still there - and in some sectors such as marketing or administration it is particularly large.

Economic crisis puts pressure on fees

Even more serious is the general financial insecurity. Although there are individual top earners, the majority are living on the edge. Only a third of those surveyed made more than 100,000 euros last year. For 44 percent, it was just enough for less than 50,000 euros.

And it's not getting any better. The number of people who have been able to increase their hourly rates is lower than it has been for years. Many freelancers left their prices unchanged - for fear of losing clients. Eleven percent even lowered their fees. No wonder more and more freelancers are worried about the future: Two thirds expect a poor order situation in 2025. In 2023, it was still a quarter. The pressure is increasing - and with it the frustration.

Self and constantly: The reality behind independence

The advantages of self-employment - freedom, flexibility, self-determination - remain. But they come at a high price. No regular income, hardly any cover in the event of illness, pension provision entirely private. Behavioral economist Hartmut Walz advises: "If you become self-employed, you should have reserves for six to twelve months without income."

On average, the Freelancermap respondents recommend having at least 22,300 euros as a financial buffer. Many people set aside 1,100 euros a month - usually for their pension, in securities or real estate. If you can't do that, you can quickly find yourself without a net.

RECHT 24/7 says:

Self-employment is often sold as a modern dream job - but in reality, it's a tough place to be. What is particularly annoying is that the gender pay gap cannot be eliminated, even in the private sector. And politicians look on as if it were none of their business.

Anyone working independently in Germany today needs courage, discipline - and nerves of steel. Bureaucracy, a tax jungle, insurance chaos and constant existential fears are unfortunately part of everyday life for many freelancers.

Our opinion? Working independently yes - but please don't be left alone! Why is there no protection for freelancers during economic downturns? Why is there no affordable pension option from the state for those who don't have a company behind them?

Until that happens, self-employment in Germany will remain a job with risk - and too little support.