I still get the itch.
Now and then, I hear stories such as a driver in Boston making $3,000 a week driving full-time, and I recall the thrill of the game, the challenging game, the full-time Uber / Lyft driver hustle.
Although day trading has become my new venture, I cannot help but reflect on my time behind the wheel and wonder: If I were to go full-time driving again, what would it look like?
How would I approach it, and what could I reasonably expect regarding lifestyle and revenue in today’s competitive rideshare landscape?
This article is my answer to those questions. I draw from my experience driving over 31,500 rides to provide strategies, actionable steps, and insights for navigating the current environment.
Whether you are a seasoned driver or a newcomer, I hope this perspective helps you succeed in the ever-evolving rideshare industry.
Jay Cradeur Circa December 2017, With My Blue Prius In San Francisco
Background
For four years, I was a full-time driver in San Francisco, one of the most lucrative rideshare markets in the world. I worked five to six days a week, took ample vacations, and lived well.
My earnings ranged from $100,000 to $140,000 per year. That lifestyle came with hard work and long hours, but it was rewarding.
Fast forward to today, the environment has shifted. Competition is fiercer, expenses are higher, pay has decreased, and bonuses are smaller. Drivers must adapt to new challenges, including random upfront ride prices, fluctuating demand, increased driver saturation, and rising operational costs such as gas and car rental prices.
If I were to jump back into full-time mode, I would need a well-thought-out plan to remain profitable while maintaining balance. This article outlines the critical elements of my approach.
1. Location
The first decision is where to drive.
For me, there is no question. I would return to San Francisco. Data consistently ranks it as one of the highest-paying markets for rideshare drivers, just behind San Diego. High demand, abundant airport traffic, and a customer base willing to pay premium fares make it an ideal choice.
However, San Francisco has its challenges. The city’s steep housing prices and parking difficulties can be obstacles. Additionally, operating in a competitive market means dealing with experienced drivers and navigating areas where demand fluctuates based on events or seasons.
Nevertheless, the pros outweigh the cons. If maximizing earnings while minimizing downtime were my goal, San Francisco would be my home base.
2. Vehicle
Choosing the right vehicle is crucial for profitability.
I would not purchase a car outright. Instead, I would opt for an Uber rental. Rentals have several advantages, including insurance coverage and unlimited or near-unlimited mileage.
I drove full-time in a rented Toyota Prius (pictured above) for a low price of $147 per week. Those days are long gone.
Given today’s emphasis on efficiency and sustainability, I would choose an electric vehicle, most likely a Tesla Model 3. At approximately $300 per week, the rental cost is reasonable and manageable.
An electric car would substantially reduce fuel expenses, allowing me to keep more earnings. With a range of over 300 miles per charge, I would only need to recharge once or twice daily, depending on how many hours I work. It is a practical, cost-effective solution for handling a six-day, 2,400-mile workweek.
Let’s evaluate the costs here. Each week, I would spend an extra $150 for the rental. However, for every 400 miles, I would save roughly $25 in fuel expense due to the electric vehicle. Over six days that is a savings of $150. Net net, my auto and fuel expenses remain approximately the same as when I drove full time, and I get to drive a quieter, much roomier, upscale Tesla.
3. Strategy
With location and vehicle decisions made, my strategy would revolve around three key pillars: schedule, earnings goals, and diversification.
First, I would stick to a proven schedule: 3 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it.”
Early morning shifts allow me to capitalize on airport runs and morning commutes while avoiding peak traffic congestion at the end of the work day. For flexibility, I would leave the option of driving on Friday and Saturday nights open, as those shifts can be incredibly lucrative in the right circumstances.
Second, I would set a daily earnings goal of $400. While this target is ambitious, it is achievable in San Francisco’s high-demand market. By maintaining consistency and meeting this goal six days a week, I would be on track to earn $120,000 annually.
Third, I would diversify my income by developing a private driving service. Building a client base outside the rideshare platforms would increase my revenue and provide financial stability in case of market changes. Private driving also allows me to set my rates and create a more predictable and profitable work schedule.
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4. Private Driving Service
Reliability is a valuable commodity, especially for passengers heading to the airport.
Many riders prefer to book directly with a dependable and amiable driver rather than rely on the roulette wheel, which is the Uber or Lyft app, which can sometimes lead to uncertainty. I would take advantage of this by creating a private driving service.
The process is straightforward. I would start by handing my Uber and Lyft passengers my business cards. The cards (rough design above) would feature my contact information and a simple message indicating my availability for private bookings. A professional yet affordable design through Vistaprint would suffice.
I would use a scheduling app like Todoist to manage and maintain organization. Over time, I would develop a loyal client base of frequent travelers and professionals who value reliability.
Private rides often pay two to three times more revenue per hour than app-based trips, significantly boosting my income. I could create a sustainable and profitable side business by focusing on customer satisfaction and building strong relationships.
5. Taking Vacations
One of the keys to my success in the past was balancing hard work with meaningful breaks.
During my full-time driving years, I followed a cycle of working intensively for two to four months and then taking a two- to four-week vacation. This rhythm kept me motivated, prevented burnout, and allowed me to enjoy the fruits of my labor.
Vacations also gave me something to work toward. Having tangible goals, such as a trip to Santorini, Greece, or a diving adventure in the Philippines, inspired me to push through long hours and challenging days.
Looking ahead, my personal goals include visiting Japan in 2026 and embarking on an African safari in 2027.
These milestones provide purpose and excitement, ensuring my work remains fulfilling rather than draining. For anyone considering full-time driving, I recommend setting aside time and money for vacations. They are rewards for your effort and essential for maintaining your well-being and perspective.
Key Takeaways
If I were to drive full-time again, my approach would be focused, strategic, and sustainable.
Choosing a high-paying market like San Francisco would ensure strong earnings potential. Renting an electric vehicle would minimize expenses and provide flexibility. I could maximize income and efficiency by following a structured schedule, setting clear daily goals, and developing a private driving service.
Finally, integrating regular vacations into my routine would keep me motivated and prevent burnout.
Full-time rideshare driving is not for the faint of heart.
It requires discipline, adaptability, and a willingness to put in the hours. However, the right plan and mindset can be both lucrative and fulfilling. Reflecting on my experiences and considering what I would do differently today, one thing is clear: success in this industry depends on careful planning, perseverance, and the ability to evolve.
I hope my insights provide guidance and inspiration for those considering this path.
Remember that every decision counts whether you are just starting or looking to optimize your current strategy. The road to success is paved with intention, discipline, and resilience, and I wish you the best on your journey.
Be safe out there.
