Los Angeles Comparison
Uber vs DoorDash in Los Angeles
Which app actually pays more per hour in Los Angeles? We compared net hourly estimates after IRS mileage proxy and self-employment tax assumptions.
The TL;DR for Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, Uber tends to pay more per hour due to higher base fares and longer trip consistency, while DoorDash is better for short-distance drivers trying to avoid high depreciation.
HIGHER PAY
Uber
Side-Hustle Scenario (25 hrs/wk)
Net Hourly Pay
$20.57
Gross Weekly
$1064
Est. Miles Driven
272 mi
Tax Risk (Quarterly)
~$1724
DoorDash
Side-Hustle Scenario (25 hrs/wk)
Net Hourly Pay
$19.31
Gross Weekly
$1011
Est. Miles Driven
272 mi
Tax Risk (Quarterly)
~$1619
When to Choose Which App
Choose Uber If:
- ✓ You own an electric/hybrid vehicle (high MPG mitigates longer rides).
- ✓ You prefer driving passengers over finding apartment numbers and carrying food.
- ✓ You plan to drive early mornings or late-night weekends (bar rush).
Choose DoorDash If:
- ✓ Your car is older and you want to minimize highway mileage.
- ✓ You hate small talk and prefer listening to audiobooks uninterrupted.
- ✓ Your primary driving hours are 11 AM - 1 PM or 5 PM - 8 PM (meal times).