6 Alternatives to Working From Home for Independent Contractors

While working from home may be convenient for some people, it can be isolating and distracting for others. Here are six alternatives to a home office, along with their benefits and drawbacks, to help you make an informed decision for your career.

Workspace Options for Independent Contractors

1. Coworking Space

Pros: While most coworking spaces do charge membership fees, they are relatively inexpensive and generally far less costly than renting an office. Most facilities will provide office equipment including printers, scanners, fax machines, and meeting rooms that you can use to meet with current and potential clients.

One of the most notable benefits of a coworking space is the ability to work in a socially-based, professional setting. This not only helps to combat the isolation many feel in a home office, but it can also have creative benefits such as the ability to brainstorm, collaborate, and network with colleagues.

Cons: Unlike working from home, many coworking facilities have set business hours, so your work schedule may be more set. You’re also likely to experience less privacy. While the social setting of a coworking facility can be invigorating, it can be difficult to work without distractions or interruptions. And depending on where you live, you’ll need to factor in commute time and cost.

Bottom Line: Coworking facilities can be an excellent option for independent contractors who find working from home to be too isolating, or who don’t want to purchase office equipment. However, it may not be ideal for those who value quiet and private environments or those who require more flexible work hours. Check out Coworker to find a coworking facility near you.

2. Private Office Building

Pros: A private office provides an environment that is relatively distraction-free and entirely dedicated to work and productivity. It also offers a professional setting for client meetings.

Cons: The main drawback of a private office is the high cost of renting and maintaining it. In addition to rent, be sure to consider other costs such as utilities, parking fees, and office equipment.

Bottom Line: While some independent contractors find a private office unnecessary, others feel that the benefits it affords are worth the investment. Many find that a private office is a luxury that should be considered after they’ve established themselves and have built a thriving business. SquareFoot is available in select cities and matches you with a private workspace in a shared company office. You may also consider renting a shared office space to minimize cost.

3. Hot Desk

Pros: Hot desking is a growing trend in many industries. The idea here is that you can rent a desk in an existing office building, incubator space, or coworking facility that rotates between multiple users. A hot desk will provide you with a dedicated workstation for the time you reserve it. Similar to a coworking facility, you’ll often have all of the benefits of a fully functioning office as well as opportunities to network.

Cons: With a hot desk, privacy can be limited and the group atmosphere may be distracting to some. While you may save on costs, you won’t have a personal workspace you can come to each day.

Bottom Line: For independents who don’t want or need the expense of a dedicated office space as opposed to working from home, hot desks are an inexpensive and flexible option. Check out DesksNear.Me or ShareDesk to find a desk in your area.

Check Out: If you actually prefer to working from home, take a look at our tips for creating the best home office setup for you!

4. Hourly Spaces

Pros: Hourly spaces allow you to rent all sorts of workspaces by the hour. Options include private offices, presentation rooms, shared office space, desks, coworking spaces, and conference rooms. If you are primarily working from home, renting an hourly space may be a good change of scenery for a focused work session or a private space for a client meeting.

Cons: With an hourly space, you don’t have a dedicated office or desk you can come to each day. Depending on where you rent and how much you are willing to pay, your space may or may not include the office equipment needed to conduct business.

Bottom Line: For those who don’t want to regularly go to a coworking facility or rent an office, but need some type of additional workplace, hourly spaces are a good option. Liquidspace offers a wide selection of hourly workspaces all around the world.

5. Public Places

Pros: For independents looking for flexibility, there are a number of creative options available in your area.

Coffee shops have long been a popular alternative workspace, offering free Wi-Fi along with a variety of drinks and snacks. Many newer or boutique grocery stores also provide seating areas to enjoy coffee or baked goods, often offering a quieter environment than a busy coffee shop.

Hop on your bike or take a walk to your local park when the weather permits. Many parks have shaded tables that can be an ideal spot to work while enjoying fresh air and getting a boost of vitamin D.

Cons: While many of these public places offer great flexibility, some can feel a bit noisy or chaotic depending on the day. Keep in mind that while free Wi-Fi may be available, it might not offer business-friendly speeds or be fully secure.

Bottom Line: Public places can be a great option when you’re looking for a change of scenery or a place to work for a few hours. When working at one of these alternative locations, consider bringing noise-canceling headphones and a portable Wi-Fi hot spot. Workfrom scouts out the best work-friendly spaces in your area.

6. Digital Nomad

Pros: Digital nomads (or virtual nomads) opt for this way of life due to their desire for independence. You can become liberated in both life and work by choosing your own path as a digital nomad. The modern worker longs for independence and becoming a digital nomad provides that possibility.

Cons: Many people prefer to be in constant contact with their loved ones, but if you reflect on the digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll see that it’s actually the reverse. In fact, digital nomads often experience feelings of isolation and even powerlessness.

Bottom Line: The digital nomad lifestyle offers freedom and independence, making it an appealing choice for those who value flexibility in work and life. However, it can also lead to isolation, which may be challenging for those who thrive on close personal connections.

Finding the Best Work Environment As an Independent Contractor

The MBO Partners 2024 State of Independence research study found that 18.1 million American workers currently describe themselves as digital nomads. Digital nomads defy a single definition, yet all choose to combine working remotely and traveling for various reasons and lengths of time. Some nomads travel for years, regularly moving across countries and continents.

If you’re interested in becoming a digital nomad or simply want to work on your own terms as an independent contractor, check out MBO’s marketplace for the latest opportunities to advance your career. It’s a great way to discover projects that align with your skills and goals while offering the flexibility you desire.