Los Angeles, California has been ranked the best place in the United States for freelancers to live. Over 17.9 percent of L.A. households reported self-employed income, according to the latest census data. On the list, Portland, Oregon and Miami, Florida were ranked second and third. 

Renee Chen is an independent fashion designer. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in downtown L.A. three years ago. She thought about moving to Portland, but she couldn’t give up L.A. Chen is now designing clothes for Honey Sucker Apparel. 

“I went to Portland and I loved it. Everyone there is very artistic, nice and has free spirit,” said Chen. “L.A. has more opportunities. If you want to do gifting to celebrities and bloggers, you can’t find any in Portland. You’ll get more coverage in L.A. too”