How To Work From Home: Tips & Remote Jobs for 2025

The way we work has changed dramatically. In 2025, nearly half of US workers (51%) are in hybrid setups, splitting their time between the office and home. Meanwhile, 28% are fully remote, and just 21% are working on-site all the time. 

However, not all employers are on the same page. Many are trying to pull workers back to the office, with 75% requiring in-office attendance regularly in 2024, up from 63% just a year earlier. 

This has led to a lot of employee turnover, with eight out of 10 companies losing talent over return-to-office mandates. Still, it’s thought that at least 36.2 million Americans will be working remotely by the end of the year, a five times increase from before the pandemic. 

Whether you’re running your own business or working for someone else, it’s clear that finding a work-life balance while working from home is possible and increasingly popular. Let’s dive into how to work from home, from setting your hours to staying productive and connected with others.

What is remote work?

Remote work is when employees do their job from a location other than the office. Usually, that means working from home, but remote work could happen pretty much anywhere with an internet connection. Thanks to technology, workers can stay connected to their teams and do their tasks without being physically present at a traditional office.

Remote work isn’t exactly a new concept, even though it felt like it came out of nowhere during the pandemic. In the 1970s, remote work started with people connecting to central offices via phone lines. Over time, with the rise of the internet and tools like email and video conferencing, remote work became a more realistic option for many industries.

Then came COVID-19, which forced a lot of companies to embrace remote work, almost overnight. Fast forward to today, and we’re seeing a shift toward remote work as a permanent option in many sectors.

Remote vs. hybrid working: what’s the difference? 

• Remote work: Employees are fully remote and there’s no office time required. They can work from wherever they want, whether that’s their home, a coffee shop, or potentially even another country.
• Hybrid work: Employees split their time between working remotely and being in the office. There’s more flexibility here, but expectations are still tied to a set number of in-office days.

How to work from home

• Create a dedicated workspace
• Talk to your boss
• Seek remote-friendly companies
• Start an online business
• Try freelancing
• Develop remote work skills
• Embrace remote networking
• Explore remote internships

There are work-from-home opportunities in countless industries. While not everyone will have the luxury of remote working, many will be able to find productive, flexible jobs that can be performed anywhere with a quiet workspace and an internet connection. 

Here’s what to keep in mind when pursuing a work-from-home job:

Create a dedicated workspace

If you want a work-from-home job, invest in a workspace that lets you thrive. Ideally, you’d turn a room in your home into dedicated office space. If that isn’t possible, negotiate with other family members or housemates about reserving a communal space for your work during set business hours. Set ground rules to minimize interruptions during work hours—an especially important step if you work in a communal space with roommates or family. 

Make sure your workspace is ergonomically friendly. That includes a setup with a comfortable chair and a desk at the correct height to avoid strain. Make sure any other tools you need to do your job are also set up to support your focus and well-being. Many companies offer work-from-home stipends or reimbursement perks for setting up a quality workspace at home. 

For some remote workers, a dedicated workspace can literally be built anywhere.

“Having a separate desk area—that was huge,” says remote worker Shay Edwards who works from a converted school bus with her partner. “I was doing my meetings in bed in the van, and I just don’t like to do that. I want to sit down at a desk. So, we made our couch be able to convert up into a dinette where I could have a desk set up.”

Talk to your boss

If you’re currently employed, talking to your boss about working remotely is a great first step. Highlight the benefits, such as saving on commute time and increasing productivity, and suggest a trial period. You can also demonstrate how remote work could save your company money, especially when it comes to office space and utilities.

Prepare a solid case by showing how you’ll stay productive and connected. Propose regular check-ins and a clear communication plan to ensure you’re still meeting team goals and deadlines. 

Seek remote-friendly companies

If you’re ready for a new job, look for companies that have a remote-friendly or fully remote work culture. Many tech companies, startups, and even traditional corporations offer remote opportunities. Use job search websites like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and ZipRecruiter, and filter for remote jobs.

You can also check out job boards dedicated to remote work, such as We Work Remotely or Remote.co. Be proactive and tailor your search to companies that are known for having flexible working arrangements or that have publicly committed to supporting remote workers.

Start an online business

To break free of the traditional 9-to-5 schedule, consider starting your own online business. This could entail starting an ecommerce store by sourcing products from other brands, offering consulting services, or creating digital products like online courses or ebooks to earn passive income.

Before jumping in, identify your skills, passions, and market gaps. The key is to monetize something you already know well or something you’re passionate about. Starting small with a side hustle can give you the freedom to build your business without the pressure of quitting your full-time job immediately. Resources like Etsy and Teachable can help you set up shop with minimal investment.

Being self-employed comes with unique challenges, but the perks—like getting to create your work schedule—outweigh the cons for those with an entrepreneurial mindset.

Try freelancing

If you currently work full-time and want to ease into entrepreneurship on the side, you can find jobs online as a freelancer. Join freelancing platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr to find remote work opportunities. These platforms connect freelancers with clients seeking various services, from graphic design to programming to writing.

Start by building a strong portfolio and gathering testimonials from clients to showcase your skills. You don’t have to quit your full-time job right away. Freelancing on the side is a great way to test the waters and build a steady stream of income, clients, and savings before going fully independent.

Develop remote work skills

To be competitive in the remote job market, it’s important to develop skills that are in high demand. This includes expertise in digital project management tools like Asana or Trello, proficiency in video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Teams), and communication skills. For more creative roles, learning tools like Canva or Adobe Creative Suite can come in handy.

The great thing about remote work is that, in most cases, you don’t need a degree; you just need relevant skills and a strong work ethic. There are plenty of free or low-cost online courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning that can help you develop the specific skills you need for your ideal remote job.

Embrace remote networking

Join online communities and networking groups related to your industry. Engage with other remote workers, share insights, and seek advice on finding remote work opportunities. You can provide support for others in your remote work community by sharing job postings that may not be right for you but could suit others.

Websites like LinkedIn, Reddit, and industry-specific forums can be valuable resources, helping you feel connected to remote employees like yourself.

“My bootcamp professor told us cybersecurity is a small field, and we needed to network,” says Stacey Lokey-Day, a security operations analyst at Wiz. “I knew no one, and I thought about what I could do. One of the things I could do was use LinkedIn. I would also attend webinars and message the presenter on LinkedIn afterward and say, ‘Hey, I really appreciated your webinar, or I saw your video on YouTube. I really liked it.’ Slowly, that helped me gain more credibility because I was then connected to these prominent speakers.”

Explore remote internships

If your résumé is light because you’re a student or recent graduate, look for remote internship or apprenticeship opportunities. Many companies offer remote internships, providing valuable experience while allowing you to work from home.

Websites like Handshake and Indeed often feature remote internship listings, and don’t forget to tap into your school’s career resources.

Best work from home jobs in 2025

With companies embracing flexibility and employees seeking better work-life balance, there’s a wide range of opportunities for those interested in working from home. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale up your career, there’s a remote job for every skill level and interest. Let’s break down the best remote jobs across experience levels, salary ranges, and work models.

Entry-level remote positions

The good news is that there are plenty of entry-level roles that don’t require years of experience. Many companies are looking for fresh talent, and remote work opens up the playing field for people who may not have access to traditional office jobs. 

Here are some of the best entry-level remote positions in 2025:

• Customer service representative. Look for jobs where you can answer questions, solve problems, or guide customers through processes from home. The average salary of a customer service rep in the US is $19.95 an hour. 
• Virtual assistant. Provide administrative support to entrepreneurs, small business owners, or even large organizations. Tasks can range from managing calendars, answering emails, and scheduling meetings to handling social media accounts. The average salary of a VA in the US is $27.23 an hour. 
• Data entry clerk. If you’re detail-oriented and can work efficiently with spreadsheets and databases, data entry can be a great remote job for you. The average salary of a data entry clerk in the US is $23.65 an hour. 
• Content moderator. With more content being generated than ever before, companies need people to moderate online communities, review content for appropriateness, and ensure guidelines are followed. The average salary of a content moderator in the US is $30,000 to $40,000 a year. 
• Social media coordinator. As an entry-level social media coordinator, you might be responsible for creating posts, engaging with followers, and tracking analytics. The average salary of a social media coordinator in the US is $20.55 an hour. 

High-paying work from home careers

If you’re looking for a remote job with a higher earning potential, there are plenty of career paths where you can work from home and earn a solid salary. These jobs usually require specialized skills or more experience but offer flexibility, excellent pay, and career growth opportunities. 

Here are some of the best high-paying remote careers in 2025:

• Software developer. Many developers work from home full time, building apps, websites, and systems. If you have a background in coding and enjoy problem-solving, this can be one of the most lucrative remote careers, with the average salary in the US sitting at $124,820 a year.
• Project manager. Project managers coordinate tasks, track progress, and ensure that projects stay on budget and within deadlines. These roles often come with high salaries, especially if you have experience with digital project management tools like Asana, Trello, or Monday.com. The average salary of a project manager in the US is $93,956 a year. 
• Digital marketing manager. As a digital marketing manager, you could be responsible for developing strategies across social media, email marketing, paid ads, and SEO. The average salary of a digital marketing manager in the US is $79,404 a year. 
• Sales executive/account manager. Whether you’re selling software, services, or physical products, remote sales executives often earn commissions in addition to their base salary. The average salary of a sales executive in the US is $83,615 a year.
• UI/UX designer. If you have an eye for design and a passion for creating user-friendly websites and apps, remote UX/UI design could be a great fit. Salaries for remote UX/UI designers average out at $125,962 a year.

Freelance and contract opportunities

Freelancing and contract work are becoming increasingly popular as people seek more control over their schedules and workload. If you prefer the flexibility to choose your clients and projects, freelancing might be the perfect work-from-home business. 

Here are some of the best freelance and contract opportunities available in 2025:

• Freelance writer or content creator. Content creation is booming, and companies are always in need of writers for blogs, social media, website copy, and more. With experience, top freelancers can earn $50,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on their niche and client base.
• Graphic designer. Many businesses need logos, brochures, social media graphics, and other visual content. Freelance designers can earn anywhere from $35 to $60 per hour, depending on their experience and expertise.
• Web developer. If you have experience with coding languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or WordPress, you can find freelance opportunities that offer flexibility and high pay. Experienced web developers can charge anywhere from $63,000 to $160,000 a year, depending on the complexity of the projects.
• Consultant or coach. If you have a deep knowledge of a specific field (business strategy, career development, marketing, etc.), consider offering consulting or coaching services. The pay can vary significantly based on your niche, but top consultants and coaches can earn $57,000 and $116,000 a year.
• Virtual project manager. Freelance project managers oversee remote teams, manage timelines, and make sure projects are completed successfully and on time. Top freelance project managers can earn between $86,000 and $160,000 a year. 

Tips for working from home successfully

• Establish a dedicated workspace
• Minimize distractions
• Maximize natural light
• Take regular breaks
• Stay connected to your team
• Practice disciplined email management
• Invest in the right technology and home office equipment
• Create a routine
• Use time management tools to stay productive
• Protect sensitive information
• Be mindful of others’ time zones
• Prioritize a healthy work-life balance

Establish a dedicated workspace

Create a designated area in your home for work. This space should be free from distractions and equipped with home office equipment like a desk, ergonomic office chair, and a computer screen big enough for you to get your best work done.

Minimize distractions

Communicate boundaries with family members or roommates to minimize interruptions during work hours. Consider wearing noise-canceling headphones to help you block out distractions and stay productive.

Maximize natural light

Position your workspace near a window to benefit from natural light. Natural light can boost your mood and energy levels, enhancing productivity throughout the day. It can also make it easier for your colleagues to see you in video conference calls.

Take regular breaks

Schedule regular breaks to rest your eyes, stretch, and recharge. If possible, step outside for sunlight, fresh air, and a walk around your neighborhood. This helps prevent burnout and maintains your energy levels throughout the day.

Stay connected to your team

Use video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams to stay connected with colleagues while telecommuting. Video calls, as well as traditional phone calls and text-based chat tools, can foster collaboration and maintain a sense of camaraderie.

Practice disciplined email management

Set specific times to check and respond to emails to avoid constant interruptions. Consider using email management tools or techniques to prioritize important messages and streamline communication.

Invest in the right technology and home office equipment

Ensure you have the necessary technology and software to perform your job effectively. This includes a reliable internet connection, a laptop with enough computing power for your type of work, and productivity tools for tasks like data entry and email marketing. Budget for expensive items that make a big difference in your day—like a comfortable office chair or high-speed internet—and buy less important items used or refurbished.

Create a routine

Establish a daily routine that includes set work hours and breaks. Consistency can help you stay focused and more productive during the hours that you’re on the clock. It can also help you more deeply rest and separate from work during your hours off the clock. 

Use time management tools to stay productive

Use time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique or time blocking. These will help you structure your day and stay on task. Set realistic goals and deadlines to stay motivated.

Protect sensitive information

When working from home, ensure you have proper security measures in place to protect sensitive information. Use encrypted communication tools for sharing sensitive data and follow your company’s protocols for data security, such as using a virtual private network (VPN).

Be mindful of others’ time zones

If you work with colleagues or clients living in a different geographic location, be mindful of scheduling meetings or phone calls. Late afternoon in San Francisco may feel like the perfect time for a video call, but for your partner in London, it could be midnight. Use tools like World Time Buddy to coordinate across different time zones effectively.

Prioritize a healthy work-life balance

Keep track of your work hours and block off hours when your personal life gets priority. Incorporating exercise into your workday can also stave off burnout while maintaining overall health and well-being. 

Here are some ways you can maintain a healthy work-life balance: 

• Set clear “laptop curfews.” Decide on a specific time each day when you’ll shut down your work laptop, and stick to it. This helps signal the end of your workday and allows you to truly transition into personal time. 
• Calendar blocking strategies. Start by dividing your day into blocks of time dedicated to specific tasks. You can also block out “personal time” or “self-care” on your calendar and treat them like meetings you cannot miss.
• Set boundaries for work hours. Set specific working hours and communicate them to your colleagues, clients, and anyone else who may expect your attention during the day.
• Incorporate exercise into your day. Schedule regular breaks for stretching or short workouts. You don’t have to commit to long sessions, even a 10-minute walk or a few sets of stretches can make a huge difference in reducing stress and improving your focus.
• Create physical boundaries. If you can, create physical separation between your workspace and your personal space. If you don’t have the luxury of a separate room, consider using physical cues to signal when it’s time to work and when it’s time to relax. For example, you could have a specific chair or desk set up for work, and once you step away from it, you’re no longer in “work mode.”
• Turn off notifications. Many apps (including email, Slack, and project management tools) allow you to schedule when notifications are sent or muted.