Since an independent contractor can set their own rate, I can use that as an advantage to attract employers; especially because my living expenses aren't much. It feels like undue hardship to compete for a job where I get paid 15$ per hour, only to probably have to quit it because I've already made the sufficient amount to pay a 400$ monthly rent.

I don't think employees and independent contractors directly compete with each other because an independent contractor is suppose to have made a significant investment in facilities like perhaps a degree, license, permit, or training related to the work.

I still remember the time when I went to interviews and had to compete with others who had job experience in related work or had families. It'd be nice to just get a simple employment with its greater benefits, but it's too competitive. But one way I can compete is by lowering my wage to attract employers, which independent contractors can do.