[shean_massey]

Yes but not as an employee. I'm a freelance python developer in Brussels, Belgium with just over 10 years exp and 32 years of age. The jump from employee to freelance wasn't easy but I sure wish I'd done it sooner. Short term and urgent contracts are worth a lot more than long term (2weeks versus 6months). You need to know your worth. I always calculate "how much time/costs" will you save as a result of my software: I want a fair piece of that. I focus on those shorter contracts. This year brought me almost twice what you're looking for (before tax). And a good accountant friend helps me keep as much as I legally can. Next year, I'm hoping to finally hit the 250k mark. As an employee just 2 years ago, I was amongst the "high paid employees", bringing in 55k net a year as a comparison. I suggest you look into doing the same with either becoming independent or starting a 1 person company. Contact an accountant ASAP to get the best advice on which structures best fit for you.

[jakub_g]

Do you always freelance locally, or remotely as well?

[shean_massey]

I've always stuck with very local (in the same city where I reside). I'm not against looking further or even remote but I've never had to look too far. It's normally a question of hours between posting my availability+updated CV and finding my next contract.