7 Smart Platforms to Hire SEO Experts Without Using Upwork

Upwork has become a default choice for many businesses hunting for SEO help, but it’s far from the only option worth considering. If you’ve struggled with inconsistent quality, high service fees, or simply want to explore what else is out there, you’re in the right place. This guide walks you through seven solid platforms where you can find skilled SEO professionals who actually know what they’re doing. Each option brings something different to the table, whether that’s specialized vetting, transparent pricing, or direct access to verified experts.

1. Legiit

   Legiit stands out as a marketplace built specifically for digital marketing services, including SEO. Unlike general freelance platforms, this site focuses on marketers who offer pre-packaged services with clear deliverables and fixed prices. You can browse through SEO packages that cover everything from link building and content creation to technical audits and local optimization.

   What makes Legiit particularly useful is the transparency around what you’re actually getting. Each seller lists exactly what’s included in their service, how long it takes, and what results you can expect. The review system is robust, so you can see honest feedback from other buyers before committing. Many of the SEO experts on the platform have been doing this work for years and offer guarantees on their services, which adds a layer of confidence when you’re making a decision.

2. Toptal

   Toptal takes a different approach by screening freelancers through a rigorous selection process before allowing them onto the platform. Only about three percent of applicants make it through, which means you’re working with people who have proven their skills through multiple rounds of testing and interviews.

   For SEO specifically, Toptal connects you with strategists who understand both the technical and content sides of search optimization. The matching process involves talking with their team about your needs, after which they suggest candidates who fit your requirements. Pricing sits at the higher end compared to other platforms, but you’re paying for the assurance that comes with heavily vetted talent. If your project is complex or you need someone who can hit the ground running without much guidance, Toptal delivers on that promise.

3. Codeable

   While Codeable primarily focuses on WordPress development, many of their experts also specialize in technical SEO. If your site runs on WordPress and you need someone who can handle both the development and optimization sides, this platform bridges that gap nicely.

   The experts here understand how site structure, page speed, schema markup, and other technical elements affect search rankings. They can implement changes that many pure content SEO specialists might miss. Every expert on Codeable goes through a vetting process, and the platform manages the project workflow to keep things organized. You submit your project details, receive quotes from interested experts, and choose who you want to work with based on their experience and proposed approach. The focus on WordPress means these professionals know the platform inside and out, which translates to faster, cleaner implementations.

4. Gun.io

   Gun.io operates as a talent matching service that connects businesses with pre-screened freelancers across various tech and marketing disciplines. Their SEO experts tend to have strong analytical backgrounds, making them particularly good at data-driven optimization strategies.

   The platform handles the initial vetting and matching process, so you don’t have to sort through hundreds of profiles. You describe what you need, and they present candidates who match those requirements. Gun.io also offers flexible engagement options, from hourly consulting to longer-term contract arrangements. The freelancers here typically work with established companies rather than small projects, so they bring experience handling substantial SEO campaigns with measurable business impact. If you need someone who can work independently and report on progress using real metrics, this platform delivers that caliber of professional.

5. Working Not Working

   Working Not Working started as a creative community but has expanded to include digital marketers with strong SEO capabilities. The platform appeals to professionals who want more control over how they present themselves and the projects they take on.

   What sets this platform apart is the portfolio-first approach. SEO experts showcase their past work, case studies, and results in a visual format that gives you immediate insight into their style and capabilities. You can see exactly what kind of content they’ve created, which sites they’ve helped rank, and how they approach different SEO challenges. The community aspect means many members are active contributors to the industry, writing articles, speaking at conferences, or developing tools. This level of engagement often indicates someone who stays current with algorithm changes and best practices. The hiring process is straightforward: you browse profiles, reach out to people whose work resonates with you, and negotiate terms directly.

6. We Work Remotely

   We Work Remotely functions as a job board rather than a freelance marketplace, which changes the dynamic entirely. Companies post SEO positions, and qualified professionals apply. This works well if you’re looking for someone to join your team on a contract or full-time remote basis rather than handling a one-off project.

   The SEO experts browsing these listings tend to be looking for stable, ongoing work rather than quick gigs. This often means they’re more invested in understanding your business and building long-term strategies rather than just completing a task and moving on. You’ll find candidates at all experience levels, from specialists who focus on specific aspects like link building or local SEO to generalists who can manage entire campaigns. The application process lets you review resumes, portfolios, and cover letters before deciding who to interview. Because you’re hiring more traditionally, you have the flexibility to structure the arrangement however makes sense for your needs, whether that’s a few hours a week or a full-time commitment.

7. Mayple

   Mayple takes a managed approach to connecting businesses with marketing experts, including SEO specialists. Instead of browsing through profiles yourself, you answer questions about your business and goals, and their team matches you with a vetted professional from their network.

   The platform monitors the work being done and provides oversight to ensure quality standards are met. This added layer of accountability can be valuable if you’ve had bad experiences with freelancers disappearing or delivering subpar work. Mayple’s SEO experts go through a vetting process that examines their track record, client results, and industry knowledge. The matching algorithm considers factors like your industry, budget, and specific SEO needs to pair you with someone who has relevant experience. You get a dedicated expert rather than juggling multiple freelancers, and the platform handles contracts, payments, and dispute resolution if issues arise. The service works particularly well for small to medium businesses that want professional SEO help without building an in-house team or managing freelancers directly.

Finding the right SEO expert doesn’t have to mean defaulting to the biggest freelance platform out there. Each of these alternatives brings something specific to the table, whether that’s specialized vetting, industry focus, or different engagement models. Think about what matters most for your situation. Do you need someone for a quick project or a long-term partnership? Are you comfortable managing freelancers directly, or would you prefer a platform that provides oversight? Answering these questions will help you choose the option that fits your needs. The good news is that skilled SEO professionals are out there, and these platforms make it easier to find them without the noise and inconsistency that often comes with larger marketplaces.