Known as one of the busiest jobs in America, Uber drivers may be able to cash in the dough if they have the time and patience for it. But is it really enough to make a living off of? Well, it depends what you’re willing to give. If you decide to become an Uber driver, you must use a mileage tracker.
A current Uber radio commercial describes a man who says he makes about $500 dollars a month driving for Uber. However, the commercial goes on to say that the cab driver could increase that income to $5000 a month if he so desired. However, it’s up to the prospective Uber driver to rake in as much or as little as they want.
Quoted by inquisitor.com, “The Washington Post reported in 2014 that Uber said the average UberX driver putting in at least 40 hours a week could expect to pull in about $74,191 dollars a year in San Francisco, and a quite respectable $90,766 dollars a year in New York City, both incomes dwarfing the average cabbie salary of $30,000 a year.”
Yet, according to an MSN Philadelphia reporter, the median wage claimed by UberX of $90,000 per year actually goes against the earnings reported by the actual drivers who said they only make between $10,000 to $41,000 per year which makes a little more sense when you break it down.
For further investigation, the MSN journalist went undercover to find out exactly how much she could make as a driver. After going through the initial employment process with Uber, she gave at least 100 rides which averaged at $17.00 per hour. She then subtracted the 28% cut that Uber takes and was left with about $9.34 an hour. If you multiply that by 40, you’re looking at a mere $373.60.
Ultimately, to make the $90,000 per year salary, the MSN reporter estimated that you would have to work 27 hours per day and 365 days per year. So whether you’re looking to make Uber a part-time gig or a full-time career, the amount you make really depends on your schedule and your area. If you want to make a living off of Uber you’re going to have to work an insane amount of hours to do so. For those of you looking for a way to supplement your income, Uber seems like a great consideration. Nonetheless, if you’re unemployed and have an open schedule, becoming an Uber driver may not be a bad idea.
Check out what current and past Uber drivers have to say about their experience here.
