Which App Makes Drivers More Money: Uber, Lyft, GrubHub, or DoorDash?

Choosing the best app to drive for can be a nuanced decision. While some drivers might prefer the flexibility of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft, others might focus on the higher-paying opportunities available through food delivery apps like GrubHub and DoorDash.

Uber: My Experience

As an Uber driver, I consistently made a weekly income of $900. After subtracting around $450 for fuel, I was still left with a substantial amount, especially considering my impressive mileage over three months: 30,000 miles driven. I worked a regular schedule, clocking in for 12 hours a day, seven days a week. My routine included a one-hour lunch break, followed by a short nap to rejuvenate before heading back out. Despite the long hours, I found the job incredibly rewarding. If given the chance, I would do it all over again.

Factors Affecting Earnings

It's important to consider several factors when deciding which app to drive for. These include the type of vehicle you drive, your shift availability, and the service tiers you operate in. Uber and Lyft, for instance, offer different tiers such as X, XL, Select, Luxury Black, etc., with varying pay rates. While I exclusively drove XL rides and higher tiers, experienced drivers have reported optimal earnings from these higher-tier options.

The pay is often offset by the longer wait times and additional responsibilities associated with the lower tiers. High-demand tiers can command higher rates of pay but require more hours to earn the same amount of money. In my case, the efficiency and command over time became my strength, allowing me to maximize profits with less downtime.

Food Delivery Apps: GrubHub and DoorDash

Food delivery apps such as GrubHub and DoorDash present a different set of income opportunities. These platforms typically offer higher pay for delivery drivers, often due to the time-sensitive nature of the orders. Drivers in these apps can earn significantly more per delivery, even if the average order volume might be lower.

For instance, on DoorDash, you might earn an average of $25-$30 per delivery, significantly higher than the $10-$15 earned in an Uber or Lyft ride share. However, the frequency and reliability of orders can vary, meaning that you might experience patches of limited availability despite the higher earnings per order.

Balancing Multiple Apps

A common strategy among gig workers is to use multiple platforms simultaneously. This approach allows you to switch between apps based on the demand and your personal schedule. Some days, you might find better opportunities on DoorDash, while other days, GrubHub or even Uber and Lyft might provide more favorable conditions.

Ultimately, the best decision depends on your individual situation. If you prefer a more structured, schedule-based job with the possibility of earning good money, Uber and Lyft might be the way to go. For those seeking higher pay per delivery and valuing flexibility, food delivery apps are a strong option. Always keep in mind that the gig economy is a race of adaptability and willingness to embrace the rhythm of the market.

Conclusion

The question of which app makes drivers more money is multifaceted and dependent on personal circumstances. Both ride-sharing and food delivery apps offer unique benefits, and the key to success often lies in adaptability and a willingness to navigate the ever-changing market landscape. Whether you choose Uber, Lyft, GrubHub, or DoorDash, your earnings can be positively influenced by smart strategy and a focus on maximizing opportunities.