8 best remote careers that let you work from home or anywhere in the world

The best remote careers can feel like a dream. You wake up in the morning at a reasonable time. By taking a few steps, you’re already at your work desk.

There’s no commute and no expensive breakfasts and lunches to fork out your hard-earned money for.

When it’s 5 p.m., you don’t need to join the rush hour or go through nightmarish traffic to reach home.

With the best remote careers, you can turn this dream into your reality.

There are more remote jobs than ever

Remember the days when everyone had to be in the office five days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.? Those days are long gone.

Thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic and massive advancements in technology, the way we work has changed a lot.

As most of us can now video call someone anywhere in the world and collaborate live on Google Docs, the list of remote jobs is just growing longer.

So too is the list of best remote careers.

While companies have been pushing to get employees back to office, many have been forced to accept this new reality: working from home is here to stay.

In early 2020, as many as 62% of full-day paid work happened at home. You would think by December 2022, everyone would have fully returned to office. But the data says only around 70% are back in office.

And that figure has sustained through to July this year. This means there are around 30% of jobs out there — an increase from our pre-pandemic days.

But where do you find these best remote careers?

Where to find the best remote careers?

On the hunt for the best remote careers? There’s a world of opportunities waiting for you.

Online job boards and websites like FlexJobs, Remote.co, and We Work Remotely are goldmines for remote positions.

Major companies like Amazon, Dell, and Salesforce have also embraced remote work, opening up a number of roles.

Platforms to check out to find the best remote careers:

• FlexJobs: FlexJobs covers remote jobs, work-from-home gigs, and all manner of flexible work.
• Dave’s ESL Cafe: This is a site specifically for English teachers. Here, you’ll find remote job opportunities for teaching students in China, Korea, and other countries.
• We Work Remotely: This is great for those looking for design or development remote jobs, but you can also find all types of work here.
• Working Nomads: Working Nomads is primarily a place to find digital nomad jobs. Here, you will find employers who are more interested in how you work rather than where you work.

Like all job hunting journeys, it won’t be a walk in the park. While it’s easier than pre-COVID-19 days, there are still fewer remote jobs than in-office-jobs.

And where you are matters too. A lot of remote jobs still require you to be in the same time zone as the company, which means they may require you to still be in the same country.

8 best remote careers you don’t want to miss out on

1. Software developer

Being a software developer is like having a key to the digital world, where you get to create the software and applications that power our computers and mobile devices. It’s not just a job; it’s a journey into the world of innovation. Whether you’re designing a user-friendly app or building complex systems, you’re the wizard behind the screen, crafting the interfaces that connect people and technology. 

The best part? Software development jobs offer a high salary, low unemployment rates, and the flexibility to work remotely. The demand for software developers is booming, making it one of the most rewarding jobs and the best remote jobs careers.

Software developers have the potential to earn around US$50.58 per hour, which adds up to a handsome US$117,801 per year. That’s a big paycheck for crafting the digital tools that make our lives easier.

You don’t need to be a tech guru from the start; there are plenty of free or low-cost training options available to help you get your foot in the door. With a bachelor’s degree in a related field like computer and information technology, you can pursue this field.

2. Digital marketing specialist 

If you have an interest in helping businesses thrive in the digital age, all from the comfort of your own home, becoming a digital marketing specialist is the job for you. 

It’s not just a job; you’re the architect of a brand’s online success. From optimising websites for search engines to crafting compelling social media campaigns, you have the power to boost a company’s online presence.

The demand for digital marketing specialists is off the charts, with the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS) predicting that career opportunities in the marketing field will increase by 10% by 2031. 

3. Graphic designer 

Being a graphic designer isn’t just a job;  it’s a canvas for your imagination. It is a world of endless creativity and the chance to transform ideas into stunning visuals.

Imagine creating eye-catching designs for Apple or H&M from the comfort of your own home – that’s the magic of being a remote graphic designer.

You get to craft visuals, design logos and shape brand identities, all while working from your favourite corner of the world. 

And here’s the exciting part – the earning potential. Many graphic designers make a good living doing what they love.

4. Content writer 

Picture a job where you can unleash your creativity, play with words and work from anywhere you like – that’s the life of a content writer. 

You can write articles, blog posts, website content and marketing copy from the comfort of your bed. What’s more, the demand for content writers is expected to increase by 4% by 2032 as businesses strive to capture the digital spotlight. 

A content writer can rake in some serious cash, and many content writers make a comfortable living of around US$58,024 a year.

The key is to create content that captivates and informs.

Whether it’s educating people about the latest tech trends, telling stories or reporting on news, content writing is where you get to play with words and get paid for it. 

5. Customer service representative 

Being a customer service representative is one of the best remote careers for connecting and helping people while earning big without leaving your home. 

You’ll be the go-to person for answering customer queries and guiding them to higher-level support or self-help resources. Every business, big or small, relies on customer service representatives to keep their customers happy. 

Did you know that research indicates a surging demand for remote customer service representatives?

A report by Global Workplace Analytics shows that more companies are recognising the benefits of remote customer support.

As a remote customer service representative, you’re responsible for solving problems and making customers smile.

You will get to use the latest technology tools and trends to deliver top-notch service. The best part is that your impact is immediate and tangible.

If you are looking for a job that allows you to put a smile on other people’s faces all from the comfort of your own home, then becoming a customer service representative is one of the best remote careers for you.

6. Data scientist

7. Online teacher

During the pandemic, schools embraced remote learning, and now, there are long-term options available for teachers who want to make a lasting impact from their own homes.

Whether you’re a public school teacher or an online tutor, the demand for your skills is strong and growing.

According to BLS, the employment rate of kindergarten and elementary teachers is expected to grow by 5% in the next decade, while the employment of high school teachers is expected to increase by 4%. 

A bachelor’s degree in education will open the doors to public-school teaching, while tutoring does require you to be a master in the subject you’re teaching and have a high school diploma. 

Being a teacher also means being a mentor, a guide, and a source of knowledge.

8. Virtual assistant

Just like an in-house administrative assistant, you’re their go-to person for scheduling appointments, making travel plans, and keeping databases up to date.

And here’s the best part – you don’t need a fancy degree to become a virtual assistant. A high school diploma is often enough to land a virtual assistant role.

Whether you’re assisting entrepreneurs with their customer service needs, fulfilling online store orders, or making website updates, it’s all about being responsible, organised, and a great communicator. 

Virtual assistant positions are often part-time, offering you the flexibility you need to balance work and life, making it one of the best part-time remote jobs around.