Driving for Uber Eats is a highly popular gig for its flexibility, easy earnings, and entrepreneurial feel.
However, when attempting to find out how much Uber Eats drivers make, it can feel like trying to uncover a great mystery!
Although it may seem like Uber drivers are gatekeeping their salaries, the Uber Eats paycheck is more complex than it might appear.
So, in this article, we intend to break down how much Uber Eats drivers make while also showing you how to make the most of your shift.
Additionally, if you’re still on the fence about driving for Uber Eats, we’ll provide the real pros and cons of the job so that you can make an informed decision.
How Much Do Uber Eats Drivers Actually Make?
Uber Eats drivers actually make between $38,000-68,000 per year. This number is influenced by a driver’s delivery acceptance rate, schedule flexibility, and tips earned.
How Earnings Are Calculated for Uber Eats Drivers
Uber Eats earnings are calculated based on distance, delivery size, surge pricing, and tips.
The Uber app keeps constant track of where your car is at all times so that it can calculate the distance between you and your next potential delivery within seconds!
If the Uber app calculates that you’re 15 miles from your next delivery, you’ll likely make more (at baseline) than a delivery of only 5 miles in distance.
Delivery size plays a role in Uber earnings. Larger orders, such as catering deliveries, can provide more money – but not always.
Next, surge pricing relates to additional money given to drivers during peak driving times.
Surge pricing is more likely to take effect during meal times, the days leading up to or following a holiday, and during times of inclement weather (such as snow).
Lastly, Uber Eats drivers make substantial money through earning tips as they keep 100% of tips earned!
Customers often calculate their tip based on the amount of the delivery order, which can be highly advantageous for drivers.
However, this tendency to over-tip may happen more often in high-income areas or for deliveries from fancy restaurants.
Average Earnings of Uber Eats Drivers
The average earnings of Uber Eats drivers vary based on location, hours worked, and tenure.
In the United States, Uber Eats drivers make between $38k-68k per year. To make the most of your earnings, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Bigger cities are more likely to come with a higher paycheck, in addition to working odd hours (early morning/late night).
Also, drivers who have accepted more orders and have a solid track record will be offered better deliveries than new or picky drivers!
Tips for Maximizing Earnings with Uber Eats
One of the cool things about being an Uber Eats driver is the ability to control your income in some ways.
To maximize your earnings with Uber Eats, there are different strategies that can be implemented.
For instance, working during peak hours or driving in high-demand areas will lead to a higher pay rate per order.
Additionally, customer service is a big part of getting a tip from deliveries – so make sure to provide prompt updates and follow the customer’s instructions to a tee.
Lastly, there are occasional promotions for Uber Eats drivers during bad weather or holidays, so keep an eye out for those!
Expenses and Deductions for Uber Eats Drivers
Let’s look at the expenses for Uber Eats drivers first.
Uber Eats drivers (just like Uber drivers) must cover the cost of their vehicle and its maintenance.
This can include oil changes, charging fees, gas bills, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Additionally, drivers must pay for their vehicle’s insurance, as being uninsured is not allowed by Uber!
Beyond car-related costs, Uber Eats drivers may have higher mobile phone usage – and this can all add up significantly on the final bill.
Fortunately, many drivers qualify for deductions!
As independent contractors, Uber Eats drivers can be reimbursed for a portion of their vehicle expenses, phone bills, and any other business supplies.
If you’re an active Uber driver, make sure to determine your specific deductions before submitting your W-2 through your taxes.
If you’re unsure of what you qualify for, it doesn’t hurt to speak to a tax/contract work professional.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Being an Uber Eats Driver
As with any job, there are pros and cons of being an Uber Eats driver.
To begin with the pros, this job is very flexible and allows you to make your own hours.
There’s no manager lingering over you while you’re driving, so all decisions made will be your own. In some ways, you are the master of your own destiny when you drive with Uber Eats!
In terms of drawbacks, the income generated from Uber Eats driving can fluctuate week-to-week or month-to-month.
This instability may not be sustainable for some, but the best way to combat pay uncertainty is to save for the weeks that the pay is lower.
Additionally, paying for vehicles and other expenses can be frustrating, as Uber does not provide its drivers with a car.
Also, this may not be a con for some, but you may get hungry on the job from smelling delicious food all day. Make sure to pack snacks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Uber Eats worth it to make money?
Definitely. Uber Eats delivery can be a full-time career option, but it’s also a great way to make a little extra cash if you’re going to be out driving regardless.
Who pays more, Uber Eats or DoorDash?
Both delivery services are more popular in different cities, so make sure to check which one is the most used in your area! However, for overall driver satisfaction, Doordash wins. Doordash drivers have a higher take-home pay and can schedule their hours.
What is the highest Uber Eats salary?
The highest Uber Eats salary, according to Glassdoor, is $68,000 per year. However, more money can be earned if tips are accrued and if the driver takes advantage of peak pay hours.
Wrapping Up
Uber Eats is one of the best delivery services for drivers in the United States.
Customers can pick from hundreds of restaurants, which provides ample opportunities for drivers to make deliveries and earn cash quickly.
The yearly earnings can vary for Uber Eats drivers, so use strategies such as taking advantage of promotions for Uber Eats drivers and driving during peak times. Wishing you luck on your next drive with Uber Eats!
