If Uber is worth it to you will heavily depend on a few key factors, including your location, vehicle, and expectations. I've spoken with many rideshare drivers, and opinions have been mixed, which has led me to understand that it is not for everyone.
Some say it’s a great way to make over $1000 a month, while others find it draining and inconsistent. Whether you’re looking for a side gig like Uber Eats or something closer to full-time, Uber can be profitable, but not if you're not ready for a few trade-offs.
How Uber Works for Drivers
Uber is a worldwide known rideshare app that will connect passengers with drivers through the Uber Mobile app. You can choose between being a passenger or a driver, and use your own car to pick up people and drop them off at their destinations. See it this way, you are a personal taxi driver.
Based on the comfort of the passenger, your friendliness, and overall service will be determined by passenger reviews. The better your reviews, the more likely you get paid better offers and bonuses.
To get started with Uber, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, access to an eligible vehicle, proof of insurance, and you must pass a background check. The sign-up process is usually quick though, and many drivers can be on the road within a day or two.
| Average Pay | Gas Expense | Average Working Hours | Rides Daily |
|---|---|---|---|
| $20-$30 per hour | $30-$40 per day | 6-10 per day | 12-15 per day |
Pros of Driving for Uber
Driving for Uber can be very rewarding, especially if you are into socializing, or helping people out getting home from the bar as a quick, fun, night time side hustle. If you have a rather recent car no older than 2012, clean, and with good gas mileage, you can easily make $100 quickly.
One of the biggest pros many Uber drivers have expressed is that you can drive “whenever you feel like it” and you can pick and choose which offers you want to take. There is no penalty if you decline rides, as it's all up to you.
Typically being within a larger, touristic city, access to airports, knowing when there are concerts, events, etc makes this job much easier to make a good buck. You can always find a lot of rides, and never really run out of opportunities.
Cons of Driving for Uber
Driving for Uber seems all glorious and fun, but it can put a lot of miles and wear on your car. If you like your car, or want to preserve its condition as long as possible, being an Uber driver may not be for you.
Paying for gas can also make Uber driving simply not worth it. Think about this, if you make around $50 daily as a casual part time, you will only get to keep maybe $20 of that due to gas fees. Especially if you are picking rides for long trips for low prices (like $3 for 10 miles).
People can also be suspicious, and there have been a few instances where Uber riders have been yelled at and threatened by passengers. In these cases you can always kick them out of your car, or simply not take a ride if you feel uncomfortable. But these are all negative experiences that could happen while driving for Uber.
