Is Freelance Programming Still a Good Path with AI Changing the Game?

Just picking up Python or C++ isn’t enough to land a well-paying job. You’ll need to understand frameworks, APIs, and even some networking. Education definitely pays off here, even if it’s just a community college.

Honestly, it's pretty tough to jump into freelancing and earn a solid income right away, especially with AI on the scene. Most freelancers don't walk into that kind of money without years of experience. Sure, some folks say there's still potential, but you'd need considerable training and a solid portfolio to get there.

Freelance programming is viable but don't expect it to be easy. A quick course won’t set you up for success. Most good jobs require years of learning and real experience. Plus, AI isn’t going to take over complex programming jobs anytime soon; think of all the intricate systems in finance that still need skilled developers.

It's really all about selling yourself as a freelancer, which can be tough. Many people in the field aren't just coders; they also have to market their services. If you have strong connections and a unique skill set, your chances improve, but $60k is already pretty high for most newcomers. You might want to look for stable jobs instead.

Going into IT roles that involve programming might be more reliable than freelance work right now. I've been in system admin roles where I get to code but also have a secure paycheck. With some experience, getting to $60k in regular roles isn’t out of reach at all.