15 Food Delivery Apps That Pays The Most

If you’re delivering food, you want to make every hour count.

Choosing the right food delivery app can mean the difference between a decent paycheck and a great one.

Some apps offer higher base pay, better tips, or lucrative bonuses. Others might shine during peak hours or in specific locations.

For example, apps like DoorDash and Instacart can pay anywhere from $15 to $25 per hour, while others like Grubhub average around $12 to $18.

Your earnings depend on several factors, including tips, promotions, and even the hours you work.

By picking the right app and understanding what drives higher pay, you can maximize your income and make the most of your time on the road.

Top 15 Food Delivery Apps That Pay the Most

DoorDash

Average Pay

DoorDash drivers earn between $15 and $25 per hour, including tips and bonuses.

On average, drivers make about $15 per hour, which is competitive compared to other apps like Grubhub.

Key Features

Base pay ranges from $2 to $10 per delivery.
Offers Peak Pay bonuses during busy times.
Challenges allow you to earn extra by completing a set number of deliveries.
Flexible scheduling lets you work whenever you want.

Pros

High earning potential during peak hours.
Easy-to-use app with clear instructions for deliveries.
Frequent bonuses and incentives to boost your income.

Cons

Earnings can vary depending on location and demand.
Some deliveries may require long distances for low pay.

Uber Eats

Average Pay

Uber Eats drivers in the U.S. earn an average of $18.75 per hour. Depending on your location, pay can range from $14.42 to $20.19. Cities like Sunnyvale, CA, and Livermore, CA, offer some of the highest earnings, with annual salaries exceeding $50,000.

Key Features

Sign-up bonuses for new drivers, ranging from $100 to $1,000.
Uber Boost increases earnings in specific areas during peak times.
Surge Pricing multiplies fares during high-demand periods.
Uber Quest rewards you for completing a set number of deliveries.

Pros

High earning potential in top-paying cities.
Multiple incentives and bonuses to increase your income.
Flexible work hours and the ability to choose your delivery area.

Cons

Earnings depend heavily on location and demand.
Some drivers report long wait times at restaurants.

Grubhub

Average Pay

Grubhub drivers earn an average of $14 per hour, which is slightly lower than DoorDash and Uber Eats. However, tips and promotions can help boost your overall earnings.

Key Features

Higher earnings in densely populated areas with many restaurants.
Driver promotions, like Missions, reward you for completing milestones.
Driver levels (Partner, Pro, Premier) unlock better-paying orders.
Peak demand hours offer more delivery opportunities.

Pros

Consistent orders in busy areas.
Clear pay structure with detailed earnings breakdowns.
Access to better orders as you level up.

Cons

Lower average pay compared to other apps.
Limited availability in smaller towns or rural areas.

Instacart

Average Pay

Instacart drivers, also known as Shoppers, earn an average of $16 per hour. While this is slightly lower than some competitors, your earnings can increase with tips and larger orders.

Key Features

You can choose between being a full-service shopper (shopping and delivering) or an in-store shopper (no delivery required).
Flexible scheduling allows you to work when it suits you.
Earnings depend on factors like order size, distance, and customer tips.
Instacart provides a detailed breakdown of your earnings after each delivery.

Pros

You can earn more with larger orders and generous tips.
Flexible work hours make it easy to fit into your schedule.
Full-service shoppers can earn extra by delivering groceries.

Cons

Pay can vary significantly depending on the size of the order and location.
Some orders may require heavy lifting or long shopping times.

Shipt

Average Pay

Shipt drivers earn an average of $18 per hour, with potential earnings ranging from $25 to $35 per hour during busy periods. The minimum guaranteed pay is $16 per hour, which provides a safety net for slower times.

Service	Average Pay per Hour	Minimum Guaranteed Pay per Hour	Potential Earnings per Hour
Shipt	$18	$16	$25 – $35
Instacart	$16	N/A	N/A

Key Features

Shipt offers a minimum guaranteed pay, ensuring you don’t leave empty-handed.
You can preview orders before accepting them, giving you control over your workload.
Shipt drivers often build relationships with repeat customers, leading to better tips.

Pros

Higher earning potential compared to Instacart.
Guaranteed minimum pay provides stability.
Repeat customers can lead to consistent tips and income.

Cons

Availability may be limited in smaller towns.
Orders can involve heavy or bulky items, which may be challenging.

Amazon Flex

Average Pay

Amazon Flex drivers earn an average of $21.83 per hour, with a range of $18 to $25 depending on the type of delivery and location. Cities like Redwood City, CA, offer some of the highest pay, averaging $24.46 per hour.

Metric	Value	Notes
Average Hourly Rate	$21.83	Based on Q2 2024 data
Hourly Rate Range	$18 to $25	Varies by delivery type and location
Top Paying Cities	Redwood City, CA ($24.46/hour)	Highest average pay location

Key Features

Amazon Flex allows you to deliver packages, groceries, and other items through services like Prime Now and Amazon Fresh.
You can schedule delivery blocks in advance, giving you control over your time.
The app provides efficient route planning to help you complete deliveries faster.

Pros

Strategic route planning saves time and boosts earnings.
High performance metrics can lead to better-paying offers.
You can combine Amazon Flex with other gig jobs to maximize income.
Flexibility to work in different areas or take on various delivery types.
Excellent customer service can occasionally result in tips.

Cons

Earnings depend on location and delivery type.
Some delivery blocks may require long distances or heavy packages.

Postmates (now part of Uber Eats)

Average Pay

Postmates drivers typically earn between $12 and $18 per hour, depending on location, demand, and tips. Since merging with Uber Eats, the pay structure has shifted to align more closely with Uber Eats’ model.

Key Features

Drivers can be as young as 18 years old and deliver using a bicycle, scooter, or even on foot.
Pay is calculated based on the delivery fee from the total order.
Flexible scheduling allows you to work whenever it suits you.
You can keep 100% of your tips, which can significantly boost your earnings.

Pros

Great for those who prefer non-vehicle delivery options like biking or walking.
Flexible work hours make it easy to fit into your schedule.
Tips can make up a large portion of your income.

Cons

Pay can be inconsistent, especially during slower times.
Some deliveries may involve long distances for relatively low pay.

Caviar

Average Pay

Caviar drivers earn an average of $24.79 per hour, making it one of the highest-paying food delivery apps. Since DoorDash acquired Caviar, driver pay is calculated at the same rate as DoorDash drivers.

Key Features

Drivers handle orders from higher-end restaurants, which often results in better tips.
You keep 100% of your tips, adding to your overall earnings.
Incentives like Peak Pay and Challenges from DoorDash can further boost your income.
As an independent contractor, you manage your own schedule and delivery requests.

Pros

Higher earnings compared to many other apps.
Orders from upscale restaurants often lead to generous tips.
Flexible scheduling gives you control over your work hours.

Cons

Availability may be limited in smaller cities or rural areas.
Some orders may require longer wait times at high-end restaurants.

Favor

Average Pay

Favor drivers, also known as Runners, earn an average of $10 to $18 per hour, including tips. In busy areas, earnings can go up to $20 per hour.

Key Features

Favor focuses on delivering not just food but also groceries and other items.
Drivers receive a guaranteed minimum pay per hour in some markets.
You can keep 100% of your tips, which can significantly increase your earnings.
The app offers a Runner Support team to assist you during deliveries.

Pros

Variety of delivery options beyond food, which can lead to more opportunities.
Guaranteed minimum pay provides stability during slower times.
Excellent customer support for drivers.

Cons

Lower average pay compared to apps like DoorDash or Caviar.
Limited availability in certain states and cities.

GoPuff

Average Pay

GoPuff drivers typically earn between $9 and $12 per hour. Your pay depends on delivery volume and market conditions. If you complete a high number of deliveries, you can unlock bonuses that boost your overall earnings.

Key Features

Feature	Description
Daily Pay	You can cash out daily through the Instant Pay program, though a small fee applies.
Minimum Hourly Rate	GoPuff guarantees a minimum hourly rate, so you’ll always earn at least a set amount per hour.
Incentive Pay	Completing a certain number of trips within a specific time frame earns you extra cash.
Boost Pay	Delivering during peak hours increases your earnings with higher rates.

Pros

Guaranteed minimum pay ensures you don’t leave empty-handed.
Bonuses and incentives can significantly increase your income.
You deliver from centralized warehouses, which means fewer restaurant wait times.

Cons

Average pay is lower compared to other apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats.
Limited availability in smaller cities or rural areas.

Eaze

Average Pay

Eaze drivers earn an average of $19.25 per hour, making it one of the better-paying niche delivery apps. For comparison, Amazon Flex drivers earn slightly more at $19.50 per hour.

Delivery App	Average Pay
Eaze	$19.25
Amazon Flex	$19.50

Key Features

Eaze specializes in delivering cannabis products, which sets it apart from traditional food delivery apps.
Drivers must meet specific requirements, including being 21 or older and passing a background check.
The app provides detailed delivery instructions to ensure smooth transactions.

Pros

Higher-than-average pay compared to many other delivery apps.
Niche market means less competition among drivers.
Flexible scheduling allows you to work when it suits you.

Cons

Limited to states where cannabis delivery is legal.
Strict driver requirements may make it harder to qualify.

Bite Squad

Average Pay

Bite Squad drivers earn around $12 per hour. Your pay can vary depending on your location. Interestingly, rural drivers often have better earning opportunities than those in urban areas. This is because competitors like DoorDash may not operate in rural regions, giving you more orders.

Key Features

Bite Squad focuses on food and grocery delivery but operates in a limited number of states. Unfortunately, the app lacks features like gas reimbursement or driver safety tools, which could improve your experience.

Pros

Reliable earnings in rural areas where competition is low.
Straightforward app interface makes it easy to manage deliveries.
Consistent demand in areas where the app is active.

Cons

Lower pay compared to apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats.
Limited availability in many states.

Roadie

Average Pay

Roadie drivers typically earn around $13 per delivery. However, the pay can range from $8 to $100 depending on the type of delivery. Bulkier items or longer distances often command higher payouts. On average, drivers make about $22.90 per hour, which is competitive compared to other delivery apps.

Key Features

Roadie specializes in same-day delivery for items of all sizes, from small packages to large furniture.
You can preview delivery details, including the payout, before accepting a gig.
The app allows you to bundle multiple deliveries along the same route, maximizing your earnings.
Roadie offers a unique opportunity to use larger vehicles like trucks or vans for higher-paying gigs.

Pros

High earning potential for bulkier or long-distance deliveries.
You can choose gigs that fit your schedule and vehicle type.
Bundling deliveries saves time and increases efficiency.
The app provides clear payout information upfront, so you know what to expect.

Cons

Availability of gigs may vary depending on your location.
Some deliveries may require heavy lifting or specialized vehicles.
Earnings can fluctuate based on demand and delivery type.

Deliv

Average Pay

Deliv drivers earn an average of $15 to $22 per hour. Your pay depends on factors like delivery distance, order size, and customer tips. Drivers in high-demand areas often earn more.

Key Features

Deliv focuses on same-day delivery for retail stores, groceries, and other businesses.
You can schedule your shifts in advance, giving you more control over your work hours.
The app provides detailed delivery instructions to make the process smoother.
Deliv offers opportunities for both part-time and full-time drivers.

Pros

Consistent pay with opportunities for tips.
Flexible scheduling makes it easy to balance with other commitments.
You deliver a variety of items, which keeps the job interesting.
The app operates in many major cities, increasing the chances of finding gigs.

Cons

Limited availability in smaller towns or rural areas.
Some deliveries may involve heavy or bulky items.
The app’s popularity means more competition for gigs.

Waitr

Average Pay

Waitr drivers earn an average of $12 to $15 per hour, including tips. In some markets, drivers can make up to $18 per hour during peak times or with generous tips.

Key Features

Waitr focuses on food delivery from local restaurants, primarily in smaller cities and towns.
The app offers a straightforward interface, making it easy to accept and complete orders.
Drivers receive 100% of their tips, which can significantly boost earnings.
Waitr provides customer support to assist drivers during deliveries.

Pros

Reliable earnings in areas where larger apps like DoorDash may not operate.
Simple app design makes it beginner-friendly.
You keep all your tips, which can add up quickly.
Consistent demand in smaller markets ensures steady work.

Cons

Lower average pay compared to apps like Uber Eats or Caviar.
Limited availability in major cities.
Fewer bonuses and incentives compared to larger competitors.

Factors That Impact Earnings

Location

Where you deliver plays a huge role in how much you can earn. Urban areas with dense populations and lots of restaurants tend to offer more opportunities. You’ll find shorter delivery distances and higher order volumes in these locations. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago often have higher-paying gigs because of the demand.

On the other hand, suburban or rural areas might not have as many orders. But here’s the catch: less competition from other drivers could mean you get more consistent work. Some apps even pay extra for long-distance deliveries in these areas.

If you’re in a smaller town, don’t worry. Focus on peak hours or areas with popular restaurants. You can also try multiple apps to increase your chances of finding orders.

Time of Day and Peak Hours

Timing is everything when it comes to food delivery. Most people order meals during lunch (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and dinner (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.). These are the golden hours for earning. During these times, you’ll see more orders and higher tips.

Some apps, like DoorDash and Uber Eats, offer bonuses during peak hours. They call it “Peak Pay” or “Surge Pricing.” These incentives can add a few extra dollars to each delivery.

Weekends are another great time to work. People tend to order more on Friday and Saturday nights. If you’re looking to maximize your earnings, plan your schedule around these busy periods.

Tips and Customer Generosity

Tips can make or break your earnings. A generous tipper can turn a $5 delivery into a $15 one. Customers in wealthier neighborhoods often tip more, so targeting these areas can boost your income.

Providing excellent service is key to earning better tips. Be polite, deliver orders on time, and follow any special instructions. A little effort goes a long way in making customers happy.

Some apps, like Caviar and Favor, let you keep 100% of your tips. This can significantly increase your overall pay. Always check the tipping policies of the food delivery app you’re using to ensure you’re getting the most out of your efforts.

Pro Tip: If a customer leaves a great tip, make a note of their address. They might order again, and you’ll know it’s worth the trip!

Bonuses and Incentives

Bonuses and incentives can make a big difference in how much you earn as a delivery driver. Many apps offer extra cash to reward you for working during busy times or completing specific tasks. These perks can boost your income without requiring extra hours.

Here are some common types of bonuses and incentives you’ll find:

Peak Pay or Surge Pricing: Apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats pay more during high-demand periods. For example, you might earn an extra $2 per delivery during dinner rush hours.
Challenges or Quests: Some apps reward you for completing a set number of deliveries within a specific time frame. DoorDash’s Challenges and Uber Eats’ Quests are great examples.
Referral Bonuses: Many platforms pay you for referring new drivers. If your friend signs up and completes a certain number of deliveries, you both get a bonus. It’s a win-win!
Streak Bonuses: Apps like Grubhub sometimes offer extra cash if you accept and complete multiple deliveries in a row without skipping any.
Incentive Pay for New Drivers: Some apps, like Uber Eats, offer sign-up bonuses for new drivers. These can range from $100 to $1,000, depending on your location and the number of deliveries you complete.

Pro Tip: Always check the app for current promotions. Bonuses can vary by city and time of year, so staying informed helps you plan your shifts for maximum earnings.

Bonuses aren’t just about extra cash. They also motivate you to work smarter. For instance, if you know there’s a Peak Pay bonus during lunch hours, you can focus your efforts then and take a break during slower times. It’s all about strategy.

App-Specific Policies

Each food delivery app has its own set of rules and policies. These can affect how much you earn and how easy it is to work with the platform. Understanding these policies helps you choose the app that fits your needs best.

Here are some key policies to watch for:

Tipping Policies: Apps like Caviar and Favor let you keep 100% of your tips. Others, like DoorDash, include tips in your total pay but may calculate them differently.
Pay Structure: Some apps, like Grubhub, have a clear base pay for each delivery. Others, like Uber Eats, use a more dynamic system based on distance, time, and demand.
Driver Requirements: Certain apps have stricter requirements. For example, Eaze requires drivers to be at least 21 years old and pass a background check.
Scheduling Flexibility: Apps like Amazon Flex let you schedule delivery blocks in advance. Others, like Postmates, allow you to log in and work whenever you want.
Order Transparency: Some platforms show you the total payout and delivery distance upfront. This helps you decide whether a job is worth your time.

Note: Policies can change, so it’s a good idea to review the app’s terms regularly. Staying updated ensures you’re not caught off guard by new rules.

By understanding these policies, you can avoid surprises and make informed decisions. For example, if you prefer flexibility, apps like Postmates or Uber Eats might be a better fit. On the other hand, if you value guaranteed pay, Shipt or GoPuff could be more appealing.

Tips to Maximize Your Earnings

Work During Peak Hours

Timing is everything when it comes to boosting your earnings. Peak hours, like lunch (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and dinner (5 p.m. to 9 p.m.), are when most people order food. These are the golden windows where you’ll find more orders and higher-paying gigs.

Apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats often offer bonuses during these busy times. For example, you might see “Peak Pay” or “Surge Pricing” pop up, which adds extra dollars to each delivery.

Weekends are another jackpot. People love ordering food on Friday and Saturday nights, so plan to work during these times if you can.

If you’re unsure when peak hours are in your area, pay attention to trends. Track when you get the most orders and adjust your schedule accordingly. By focusing your efforts during these high-demand periods, you’ll make more money in less time.

Pro Tip: Use the downtime between peak hours to rest, refuel, or even explore other apps for additional opportunities.

Use Multiple Food Delivery Apps

Relying on just one app can limit your earning potential. Different apps have different customer bases, peak times, and bonuses.

By signing up for multiple food delivery apps, you can switch between them and pick the best-paying orders.

For example, if DoorDash is slow, you can check Uber Eats or Grubhub for available deliveries.

Some apps, like Amazon Flex, allow you to schedule blocks in advance, while others, like Postmates, let you log in anytime. This flexibility gives you more control over your workday.

Using multiple apps also helps you avoid downtime. If one app isn’t busy, another might be booming. Keep all your apps open and compare the offers. Choose the ones that pay the most or have shorter delivery distances.

Pro Tip: Stay organized by keeping track of your earnings from each app. This helps you identify which ones are worth your time.

Focus on High-Tip Areas

Not all neighborhoods are created equal when it comes to tips. Delivering in wealthier areas or near upscale restaurants often leads to bigger tips. Customers in these areas tend to tip more generously, which can significantly boost your earnings.

Take some time to research your city. Identify neighborhoods with high-end restaurants or affluent residents. Apps like Caviar and Favor often cater to these areas, making them great options if you’re looking for higher tips.

When delivering, always provide excellent service. Be polite, follow delivery instructions, and ensure the food arrives on time. A little extra effort can turn a small tip into a big one.

Pro Tip: Keep track of addresses where you’ve received great tips. These customers are likely to order again, and you’ll know it’s worth the trip.

Track Expenses and Optimize Routes

Tracking your expenses is one of the smartest things you can do as a delivery driver. It’s easy to overlook how much you’re spending on gas, vehicle maintenance, and even tolls. But these costs add up fast and can eat into your profits if you’re not careful.

Start by keeping a record of every expense related to your deliveries. Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or even an app like Stride or Everlance.

These tools help you track mileage, gas costs, and other expenses automatically. Plus, they make tax season a breeze since you’ll have all your deductions ready to go.

Pro Tip: The IRS allows you to deduct mileage for business use. For 2023, the rate is 65.5 cents per mile. That’s free money if you track your miles properly!

Optimizing your routes is another way to save time and money. Shorter routes mean less gas and more deliveries per hour.

Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help you find the fastest routes. Some delivery apps even suggest optimized routes, but don’t rely on them entirely. Check for shortcuts or avoid areas with heavy traffic.

If you’re delivering in a city, plan your routes to avoid backtracking. Group deliveries in the same area whenever possible.

This strategy not only saves gas but also reduces wear and tear on your vehicle.

Quick Tip: Avoid rush hour traffic unless the app offers bonuses for working during those times. Sitting in traffic wastes gas and time, which lowers your hourly earnings.

By tracking expenses and planning efficient routes, you’ll keep more of your hard-earned money. It’s all about working smarter, not harder.

Take Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions

Bonuses and promotions are like hidden treasures in the world of food delivery. They can boost your earnings without requiring extra hours. But you need to know where to find them and how to use them effectively.

Most apps offer bonuses during busy times. For example, DoorDash has Peak Pay, which adds extra dollars to each delivery during high-demand periods. Uber Eats uses Surge Pricing, where fares multiply when orders spike. Keep an eye on these promotions and plan your shifts around them.

Some apps also reward you for completing a set number of deliveries. DoorDash calls these Challenges, while Uber Eats has Quests. These incentives can add $20, $50, or even more to your weekly earnings.

Pro Tip: Check the app daily for new promotions. They often change based on demand, so staying updated helps you maximize your income.

Referral bonuses are another easy way to earn extra cash. Many apps pay you for referring new drivers. If your friend signs up and completes a certain number of deliveries, you both get a bonus. It’s a win-win!

Don’t forget about streak bonuses. Some apps, like Grubhub, reward you for accepting and completing multiple deliveries in a row. These bonuses encourage you to stay active during busy periods, which means more money in your pocket.

Quick Tip: Combine bonuses with peak hours for maximum earnings. For example, work during dinner rush when Peak Pay and Quests overlap.

By taking advantage of these promotions, you can significantly increase your earnings. The key is to stay informed and plan your shifts strategically.

Summary of the Top Food Delivery Apps

Recap of the Highest-Paying Apps

Let’s quickly revisit the top food delivery apps that can help you earn the most. Some apps stand out for their high hourly pay, while others shine with bonuses and flexibility.

Caviar: With an average pay of $24.79 per hour, Caviar leads the pack. Delivering for upscale restaurants often means better tips and higher earnings.
Amazon Flex: Drivers earn around $21.83 per hour. Its efficient route planning and variety of delivery options make it a strong contender.
Uber Eats: Averaging $18.75 per hour, Uber Eats offers multiple bonuses like Surge Pricing and Quests to boost your income.
Shipt: With earnings ranging from $18 to $35 per hour during busy times, Shipt provides a guaranteed minimum pay for added stability.
DoorDash: A popular choice, DoorDash drivers earn $15 to $25 per hour, especially during peak hours with bonuses like Peak Pay.

Other apps like Instacart, Eaze, and Roadie also offer competitive pay, especially if you’re in the right location or delivering during high-demand periods. Each app has unique features, so it’s worth exploring a few to find the best fit for your goals.

Key Takeaways for Choosing the Right App

Choosing the best food delivery app depends on your priorities. Are you looking for the highest hourly pay? Or do you value flexibility and bonuses? Here are some tips to help you decide:

Consider Your Location: Apps like Grubhub and Waitr perform better in smaller towns, while Uber Eats and DoorDash thrive in urban areas.
Look at Pay Structure: If guaranteed pay is important, Shipt or GoPuff might be your best bet. For higher tips, apps like Caviar and Favor are great options.
Check for Bonuses: Apps with frequent bonuses, like DoorDash and Uber Eats, can significantly boost your earnings.
Think About Delivery Type: If you prefer delivering groceries, Shipt and Instacart are ideal. For package deliveries, Amazon Flex and Roadie are worth considering.
Flexibility Matters: Apps like Postmates and Uber Eats let you work whenever you want, while Amazon Flex requires scheduled blocks.

Ultimately, the right app for you depends on your goals and lifestyle. Experiment with a few to see which one aligns with your needs. By understanding each app’s strengths, you can maximize your earnings and make the most of your time on the road.

Pro Tip: Don’t limit yourself to just one app. Using multiple apps gives you more opportunities and helps you avoid downtime.

Choosing the right food delivery app can make a big difference in how much you earn. By exploring different platforms and testing strategies, you’ll find what works best for your schedule and goals.

Don’t be afraid to experiment—sometimes, the perfect app for you isn’t the most obvious one.

With the right approach, you can turn food delivery into a rewarding gig. Stay consistent, keep learning, and watch your earnings grow. You’ve got this! 🚀