Ridesharing is increasing in popularity, giving drivers more opportunities to make money. Not surprisingly, Uber and Lyft lead the pack, but many other opportunities exist. Here are the top ridesharing companies to consider in 2024.
What Is Ridesharing?
Ridesharing is a company that has a mobile app that connects riders with drivers.
The app does all the work, letting riders know how many drivers are available in the area and how long they might wait for the driver, and they can even track the car on its way to them.
Rideshare drivers don’t work for the rideshare company. Instead, they are independent contractors working a side hustle. However, rideshare companies do their due diligence to ensure the drivers are legit and safe to accept rides.
Drivers can work for as many ridesharing companies as they want, and riders can use any company they choose, even jumping back and forth between companies depending on their needs.
Ridesharing vs. Carpooling
Ridesharing and carpooling sound similar, but they are entirely different concepts.
- Ridesharing refers to a company or app riders use to find a ride.
- Carpooling means several people share a ride with others, such as commuting to work.
People might share the ride with a professional driver and split the fee or create a personal carpool among friends or co-workers to save money on gas and wear and tear on their cars.
19 Top Ridesharing Companies
The most popular rideshare companies are Lyft and Uber; however, there are many more to consider today:
- Uber
- Lyft
- Cabify
- Ziro
- Via
- Gett
- Ztrip
- Arro
- Bolt
- Gojek
- Flywheel
- Wingz
- Hitch
- Grab
- Curb
- BlaBla Car
- Ola
- GoKid
- Scoop
1. Uber
Uber is the most popular ridesharing app in the country and has the largest coverage area. Uber offers more payment options for riders than most ridesharing apps and has a long list of ridesharing services to accommodate most riders’ needs.
Driver Overview
Uber is available in over 10,000 cities throughout the US and offers many opportunities for drivers, including those with luxury vehicles or SUVs. This means drivers with ‘specialty cars’ may be able to make more money than standard Uber drivers.
Like Lyft, Uber drivers keep 100% of the customer tips, and they offer surge pricing when demand is high and driver availability doesn’t meet the current needs. Uber also has other opportunities for drivers, including Uber Eats. If you’re approved as an Uber driver, you can also make yourself available in Uber Eats to make more money.
On Glassdoor, Uber has 3.8 stars out of 5, with most drivers and employees stating it’s a good place to work because of the schedule flexibility and higher pay on certain days. Some people did complain about the lack of support unless you are a higher-tiered driver, though.
Pros
- Many opportunities to make money, especially if you drive an XL car, SUV, or luxury vehicle
- Available in most major US cities, keeping drivers busy
- Transparent pay scale
Cons
- Drivers don’t get benefits
- There is a lot of competition
2. Lyft
Lyft is one of the most popular rideshare companies in the US. It has a smaller user base than Uber, but they have a reputation for treating its drivers better than any other rideshare company on this list.
Driver Overview
Lyft is available in over 650 cities throughout the US, so you can find it in almost every state. In addition, Lyft has a reputation of being ‘friendlier’ than other ridesharing apps, making it easier for new drivers to get broken in and riders to feel comfortable even sitting in the front seat of the vehicles.
Like most rideshare apps, Lyft drivers keep 100% of customer tips and earn a flat rate for each ride. In addition, they offer surge pricing during busy times, but it may be less often than Uber since Lyft isn’t as busy.
Current Lyft drivers give Lyft a rating of 3.8 stars out of 5 on Glassdoor. The largest complaint is
that experienced drivers get paid the same as rookie drivers, which many don’t see as fair.
Pros
- Offers sign-up bonuses, which vary by city
- Drivers get a separate app that’s more driver-friendly
- It’s easy to note when you’re on your last drive for the day, so you don’t get roped into another drive when you’re ready to call it quits
Cons
- Smaller coverage area than Uber
- Drivers don’t get benefits
3. Cabify
Cabify is a ridesharing app that helps drivers make more money. Most passengers are from large companies, and Cabify offers training to help you level up your ridesharing business. In addition, Cabify uses geo-tracking to ensure the safety of all drivers and passengers.
Driver Overview
Cabify is available in 85 cities worldwide (not in the US) and is easy for drivers to set up. Once approved, you can accept ride requests with transparent pricing. In addition, the app shows drivers the areas with the highest demand so you can increase your earnings, and customer service is always available.
Cabify has a 4.6 out of 5-star rating on Glassdoor, with most employees calling it a fast-paced and innovative company.
Pros
- Riders can schedule rides in advance, making it easier to schedule your time
- Many opportunities to make money
- Protects the safety of drivers and riders
Cons
- Not all cars are eligible
- Not available in the US
4. Ziro
Ziro is based in San Francisco, CA, and runs on artificial intelligence. They charge 25% less than most other rideshare driving apps, and drivers, or Captains as they call them, earn as much as 25% more than when driving for other apps.
Driver Overview
Ziro is in San Francisco, CA, but is coming to more areas soon. What drivers love the most about this app is they don’t charge drivers commission. In other words, you earn the entire trip fee, whereas others on this list keep a commission.
Employees on Glassdoor rate Ziro with 4.2 stars, and most people agree the company has great leaders and teams that make it great for captains to work.
Pros
- Drivers (captains) earn all the commission for driving; Ziro doesn’t take a fee
- Ziro often runs driver promotions
- It’s a low-cost option for riders
Cons
- It’s only located in San Francisco for now
- There aren’t a lot of drivers yet
5. Via
Via is a carpool app that allows riders to start or join a carpool of people going in the same direction. Riders can book a ride from their phone and be picked up in minutes. It’s like public transportation but without the hundreds of people sitting around you.
Driver Overview
Via is primarily located in Chicago, Washington DC, and New York City, but it’s slowly expanding. Drivers make money based on the number of passengers they pick up and may earn a boost for each additional passenger. Many drivers have ‘regulars,’ and the commission rate paid to Via is much less than what Uber or Lyft collects.
Employees on Glassdoor rate Via with 3.2 out of 5 stars, and most people rave about the company’s mission and desire to make a change.
Pros
- Hours are mostly commuting hours, so no nighttime work is necessary
- Often has a sign-on bonus
- Low commission fee for drivers
Cons
- Not enough hours if you work a full-time job
- Not available nationwide yet
6. Gett
Gett is a rideshare company that focuses on business clients for pre-booked and on-demand rides. Their options include corporate fleets, taxis, black cabs, and limousine rides. Drivers with approved cars have an advantage since Gett isn’t as saturated as apps like Uber and Lyft.
Driver Overview
Gett is slowly making its way throughout the US, as it’s an Israel-based company that started in Russia and the UK. The app is for luxury vehicle drivers who can work with businesses to handle their company’s ground transportation needs. Gett charges drivers a lower commission than Uber and Lyft and offers same-day payments.
Gett has 4.1 out of 5 stars on Glassdoor, and most employees agree they have a great mission with opportunities other rideshare companies don’t offer.
Pros
- Opportunity to make more money with luxury rides and business customers
- Many runs are to the airport, which can be high paying
- Gett charges less commission
Cons
- Less availability on nights and weekends for drivers
- Not nationwide
7. Ztrip
Ztrip offers riders pre-scheduled rides making it easier to get where they need to go. Drivers like it because they know their schedule ahead of time and aren’t forced to work on-demand and deal with fluctuation in the amount of work available; however, Ztrip offers an on-demand option as well.
Driver Overview
Ztrip is available throughout the US, primarily in areas with large airports, as a large amount of their business are airport trips. Riders can choose customized ride options, allowing drivers with luxury cars more opportunities. Drivers are primarily a part of a taxi franchise or independent operators of their taxi company.
On Glassdoor, Ztrip has 3.0 out of 5 stars, with most reviewers stating it helped build their taxi/rideshare business.
Pros
- Helps pre-existing transportation companies boost their business
- 24/7 support
- Leased cars are available if you don’t want to use your personal car
Cons
- Not available nationwide
- Not as well known as other rideshare services
8. Arro
Arro is another rideshare app that helps drivers make money in major cities. Arro also works with existing taxi companies, allowing passengers to use Arro to pay their cab fare electronically.
Arro drivers can access thousands of ride opportunities and lower commissions, keeping more money in your pocket.
Driver Overview
Arro is currently available in most major cities and is constantly expanding. They provide 24/7 support for riders and drivers and offer helpful tips to grow your rideshare business to get more rides. In addition, they offer fast payouts and charge lower commissions, making it easy to make money.
Pros
- Excellent support
- Low commission fees
- Ongoing training to grow your business
Cons
- Not available everywhere
- Not as widely known
9. Bolt
Riders can schedule rides in advance, or book on-demand, giving drivers many opportunities to make money. The Bolt app is easy for riders and drivers, offering the best prices and giving
Uber and Lyft hefty competition.
Driver Overview
Bolt is available in over 500 cities and 45 countries (not the US). In addition, Bolt has lower commission fees than Uber and Lyft, allowing drivers to earn more, and they have around-the-clock customer service to help drivers and riders.
Bolt drivers give Bolt 3.6 stars out of 5 on Glassdoor, and many drivers enjoy the pay structure and ability to become a VIP driver.
Pros
- User-friendly app
- Fast payment
- Great customer service
Cons
- Not available in the US
- Less coverage than Uber
10. Gojek
Gojek offers several rideshare services, similar to Uber, for riders who want a more luxurious or budget vehicle. In addition, Gojek runs promotions and rewards loyal drivers with 0% commission fees periodically. They also offer daily incentives to encourage more drivers to work.
Driver Overview
Gojek operates in the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. Gojek charges a 15% commission fee but offers incentives for pick-ups far away from you.
Gojek offers a variety of driver resources to help you get control of your finances and make the most money. Gojek has 4.3 out of 5 stars on Glassdoor, and most people enjoy working for them.
Pros
- Low commission fees and opportunity for no commission fees
- Available across many countries
- Great customer service
Cons
- Onboarding can take a while
- Not as popular as Uber
11. Flywheel
Flywheel is called a taxi-hailing service because it partners with professional drivers throughout their cities to connect with riders. Flywheel trains all drivers and helps professional drivers boost their business.
Driver Overview
Flywheel currently operates in San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale, Washington, DC, and Houston. In addition, Flywheel offers the technology to some of the largest driver networks to help drivers get more high-paying rides. They are certified in all major cities but mostly operate in the four cities stated above.
Like any rideshare app, you work when you want but can increase leads by partnering with Flywheel. Unfortunately, the Glassdoor ratings for Flywheel aren’t the greatest, but they are a newer company with fewer reviews.
Pros
- Easy way to build an existing rideshare business
- Provides extensive training
- Easy to contact support
Cons
- Limited availability
- Strict requirements to use Flywheel
12. Wingz
Wingz, as it’s appropriately named, focuses on airport rides, which can be good for drivers who prefer longer-distance drives than short city commutes. Many rides are pre-scheduled and have flat rates for riders. Drivers can also build a ‘favorites’ list for repeat business.
Driver Overview
Wingz is available in cities with major airports, including Austin, Miami, and Dallas, among many others. Drivers can have a predetermined schedule, and all rates are flat, so you know exactly what you’ll make. To drive for Wingz, you must have a full-size sedan, mini-van, or SUV.
Like most apps, drivers keep 100% of the customer tips, and the fares and tips tend to be higher with longer rides to airports or special events.
Wingz has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Glassdoor, and most drivers appreciated the transparency of the flat rates.
Pros
- Longer distance rides mean more money
- Great for drivers that prefer airport trips versus short city commutes
- Drivers can earn more with their referral program
Cons
- Smaller coverage area than Uber and Lyft
- Riders can choose their favorite driver, which may lower available rides for new drivers
13. Hitch
Hitch is a rideshare app for people traveling between cities. You can pick up riders going in the same direction and make more money per ride. It can be an easy way to make money on a trip you’re already making.
Driver Overview
Drivers can choose one-way or round-trip rides, meaning you can get paid to drive back if you want to make more money. Hitch primarily operates in Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida, and drivers can earn up to $130 one way, with the possibility of earning more with round trips.
Drivers get paid after each trip and can immediately cash out.
Pros
- Offers the opportunity to make more money with long-distance drives
- Can make money on the way home with round-trip rides
- Rides can be pre-booked so you know your schedule
Cons
- Only available in three states
- Must like driving long distances
14. Grab
Grab is a ridesharing service in Southeast Asia that offers more than traditional car rides. Riders can choose a motorbike ride or even take their pets on the ride. Grab has a network of millions of riders, making it easy to make money offering rides.
Driver Overview
Grab is available to Singapore residents, and unlike Uber and Lyft, drivers must be at least 30 years old. Grab is popular throughout Southeast Asia, India, Japan, Taiwan, and Australia. Grab offers drivers incentives, and all drivers can instantly cash out up to twice daily.
Grab drivers give Grab 3.8 out of 5 stars on Glassdoor, and most drivers love the flexibility and fast pay.
Pros
- Responsive customer service
- Several options for rides
- Popular service with the potential to make good money
Cons
- Only open to those 30 years old or older
- Limited to Southeast Asia
15. Curb
Curb is a taxi app that matches riders with drivers in almost every city. However, they only work with professional taxi drivers, so you can increase your exposure using Curb if you have a taxi company.
Driver Overview
Curb is headquartered in San Francisco but operates in all major cities. They have over 100,000 drivers licensed and insured for driving in their city. Riders can hail a cab manually and ‘pair and pay with Curb’ or e-hail a cab through the Curb app.
Pros
- More exposure for licensed and insured taxi drivers
- Available in most cities
- Pay is meter-based
Cons
- No surge price protection
- Only taxi drivers are eligible
16. BlaBla Car
BlaBla Car is a carpooling app. While it’s not for drivers looking to make a side hustle, you can get riders and share the cost of your commute. Anyone can list their car and route to get riders, and it has a funny rating system so you can choose riders who have the same ‘chattiness level’ as you.
Driver Overview
BlaBla Car is located in 22 countries (not the US). Drivers can post their trip on the app and have riders within minutes. BlaBla Car keeps a 12% commission fee for each booking, but you can share the drive costs with your riders.
Pros
- Drivers control who does or doesn’t ride with them
- You can fill empty seats in your car last minute
- You save money on commuting costs
Cons
- No way to make money; only share costs
- Only available in select countries
17. Ola
Ola is a rideshare company that offers budget and luxury rides, depending on your budget. Drivers can use their own car or rent a car to make money.
Driver Overview
Ola is mostly based in the UK, and they currently have a waitlist for drivers. When you can join, though, they offer 0% commission fees for the first six weeks, referral bonuses, and the ability to secure payments daily.
Ola has an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating on Glassdoor, with most drivers stating they like the pay structure.
Pros
- 24/7 customer support
- Daily pay
- Drivers can lease a car to make money
Cons
- Only available in the UK
- Strict requirements to join
18. GoKid
GoKid is an Uber alternative for parents with minors. Since minors can’t ride in most rideshares, GoKid fills the void. In addition, the rideshare platform connects parents of kids in the area who can carpool, helping parents save time and money.
Driver Overview
GoKid doesn’t make drivers money but provides parents with peace of mind. Parents can connect with reputable drivers to take their kids to and from their activities, allowing everyone to take control of their time and reduce stress.
Pros
- Provides kids with safe ways to get to their activities
- Decreases parents’ stress
- Parents can track their child’s location in real-time
Cons
- No opportunity to make money
- It can be difficult for parents to put their child in a rideshare
Related:
19. Scoop
If you’re tired of a long commute to work, consider Scoop, where you can share the commute with co-workers or others going in the same direction. Scoop integrates with the messaging app Slack, making arranging rides with others instantly easy.
Driver Overview
Drivers don’t make money on Scoop but instead share the cost of rides to and from work or other regular locations. In addition, the app allows full transparency so riders and drivers can determine who to accept.
Pros
- Helps you save money on commuting
- Allows riders to catch a ride when they don’t have a car
- Helps riders without a car or to give your car a break
Cons
- No opportunity to make money
- Must ride with multiple riders
FAQs
Ridesharing is a great way to make extra money. Here are some popular questions about how they work.
Which Ridesharing Companies Are the Most Popular?
Uber and Lyft are the most well-known rideshare companies, but there are many other opportunities with up-and-coming services. For example, there are also rideshare apps that don’t pay drivers but allow everyone on the ride to share costs.
What Rideshare Service Pays the Best?
Uber and Lyft pay the most out of most ridesharing apps, but the exact pay varies by location and demand. So it’s important to compare the fare you’ll receive and the commission fees each rideshare app charges drivers.
What Rideshare Service Is Cheapest?
Rideshare costs vary by location, demand, and time of day. All rideshare apps will cost less during downtime versus when there’s a large event and a lot of demand in the area. Since not all rideshare apps are available in all areas, comparing your options is important.
The Bottom Line
It’s acceptable to drive for multiple rideshare companies and maximize your earnings. Learn what each rideshare company in your area offers and see which has the highest demand. Choosing the apps with the highest demand will increase your earnings and enjoy your side income.
