10 Best Food Delivery Apps that Pay You High in 2024

In a world increasingly reliant on doorstep deliveries, the demand for delivery drivers is surging. This makes delivery applications a go-to option for many seeking flexible work opportunities.

Whether you’re looking to earn extra income on your schedule or considering a full-time career as a gig worker in delivery, finding the best food delivery services to work for can make all the difference.

These apps vary widely in what they offer their workforce, from competitive pay rates to flexible hours and safety measures.

If you’re searching for the best delivery apps to make money, you’re in the right place.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the top-rated delivery apps based on factors like earnings potential, flexibility, user experience, safety protocols, and availability. 

We will help you navigate through the options to find the app that best suits your needs and preferences.

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Best Food Delivery App to Work For

  • DoorDash – On-demand food delivery service
  • Instacart – Grocery delivery and shopping service
  • Delivery.com – Deliver food, alcohol, groceries, and more
  • Grubhub – Deliver food from your favorite restaurants
  • Caviar – Deliver food from premium restaurants
  • Postmates – Deliver food, groceries, and more
  • Uber Eats – Food delivery from local restaurants
  • Favor Delivery – Deliver food, alcohol, and more
  • GoPuff – Deliver convenience items 24/7
  • Amazon Flex – Deliver packages for Amazon

1. DoorDash

Aspects Details
User ratings 4.3/5 (162)
Industry Food and Grocery
Average earnings $16–$23/hour
Operational countries United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, Germany, New Zealand
Key features No-contact delivery, supports real-time tracking, multiple payment methods
Payment Frequency Weekly
Door dash - best delivery app

DoorDash is a popular and publicly-loved delivery app that quickly connects food delivery drivers with customers. It helps drivers (or Dashers) directly make meal deliveries from restaurants to customers who live or work in the area.

DoorDash empowers drivers/dashers to connect with customers quickly and efficiently. With the freedom to choose your mode of transportation and set your own schedule, DoorDash offers unparalleled flexibility.

Here is how DoorDash pays its drivers;

  • Regarding the drivers’ payments, this delivery app pays via the Dasher Pay Model, which is responsible for pay and varies based on the order. 
  • Drivers can cash out their payments the same day for $1.99 or free with a Dasher Direct Debit Card. 
  • Subsequently, they are welcoming a new pay option called Time Earnings Mode, in which drivers can earn a guaranteed hourly rate while delivering plus 100% of tips.

According to Bloomberg Second Measure reports, DoorDash and its subsidiary Caviar earned 65 percent of U.S. meal delivery sales.

Apart from food delivery, DoorDash is partnering with some of the leading grocery delivery apps because of its significant market share. For instance, Smart and Final, Walmart, and Fresh Thyme allow potential customers to order groceries more easily.

Driver Requirements to Work for DoorDash:

  • The minimum age requirement for drivers is 18 years or older.
  • Drivers must have access to vehicles such as bikes, scooters, or cars for deliveries. 
  • A valid driver’s license number is needed.
  • A valid auto insurance, along with a clean driving record, must be acquired by the driver.
  • An Android or iOS smartphone is necessary.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for DoorDash:

Pros
  • This includes peak pay for busy hours and challenges in completing set deliveries
  • Drivers can cash out their payments the same day for $1.99 or free with a Dasher Direct Debit Card
  • They can choose which orders to accept or decline
  • Delivery routes can be scheduled in advance based on time and customer-preferred availability
Cons
  • Earnings vary based on order availability. There is no guaranteed or recurring payment option
  • Driver support is only available via chat

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2. Instacart

Aspects Details
User ratings 4.3/5 (43)
Industry Grocery
Average earnings $15.61/hour
Operational countries United States, Canada
Key features Exclusive coupons, chat functionality, group shopping, contactless delivery, same-day pickup or delivery
Payment Frequency Immediately after delivery/weekly
Instacart - best delivery app

The following delivery app on our list is Instacart. It revolutionizes grocery delivery, allowing customers to shop from various stores and get their items delivered on the same day. 

The main component of why drivers prefer to work with Instacart:

  • Full-service and in-store shoppers. In the former, shoppers or drivers receive customer orders in the app, shop for them by visiting the designated store, and deliver the order. Here, drivers can pick the days and times they want to work and how often they work.
  • In the latter, shoppers take orders in the app, shop for them, and then stage them for pick-up. Here, they do not deliver. Instead, they just prepare the order for pick-up. These shoppers are limited to 29 hours a week or less and are considered part-time employees, not independent contractors like full-service shoppers.
  • Also, drivers working with Instacart must undergo contactless or curbside pickup delivery while delivering groceries to the customer’s place.

Back then, in the year 2023, Instacart began rolling out a new feature called Scan & Pay. Shoppers can use the feature to avoid the checkout line and save time on orders.

Driver Requirements to Work for Instacart:

  • Drivers applying for the delivery jobs must be at least 18 years old.
  • They must have access to a vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and car insurance.
  • They must be eligible to work in the United States.
  • They must have acquired the latest smartphone.
  • He or she must be physically capable of lifting 50 lbs of weight.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Instacart:

Pros
  • Options for full-service and in-store work (no car needed)
  • Schedule hours in advance
  • View estimated earnings before accepting orders
Cons
  • Cannot start work immediately if you have free time

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3. Delivery.com

Aspects Details
User ratings 0/0 (0)
Industry On-demand Food Delivery Service
Average earnings $35/hour
Operational countries United States
Key features Contact-free delivery, Group-ordering, Earning delivery points with every order, Tagging favorite restaurants, Unlimited free delivery
Payment Frequency Weekly
Delivery.com - best delivery app

Delivery.com is an app that goes beyond food delivery, offering various delivery options, including groceries, alcohol, and laundry. With smart route management and flexible hours, Delivery.com makes it easy to earn on your terms.

Founded in 1995, this is the oldest food delivery service on our list of best apps for driver delivery.

As soon as you sign up for delivery on Delivery.com, you’ll be asked which hours you prefer to work. This is to ensure that the company doesn’t become oversaturated with drivers who all want to work the same hours.

What’s unique for customers is that they can earn points for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for cash or donated to various charities. Delivery.com is currently available in over 2,400 cities and works with over 19,000 merchants in the U.S.

This food delivery app offers an option for “self-delivery,” where you can pick up the order directly from local restaurants, hotels, or other locations.

Driver Requirements to Work for Delivery.com:

  • Drivers must be 18 years or older.
  • They must have acquired a valid driver’s license, proof of auto insurance, and a smartphone.
  • A background check for a food delivery driver is mandatory.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Delivery.com:

Pros
  • Minimal driver requirements
  • Flexible hours
  • Multiple delivery options: groceries, takeout, laundry, alcohol
Cons
  • Lower pay compared to other apps
  • Reports of disorganized management

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4. Grubhub

Aspects Details
User ratings 4.3/5 (122)
Industry Food Delivery
Average earnings $14.08/hour
Operational countries United States, Canada, United Kingdom
Key features Supports contactless delivery, Food delivery with real-time tracking, Provides cash and online payment, Save your order history, Place your order in advance
Payment Frequency Direct deposit payments weekly, twice a week, or every two weeks, or instant cash out up to $500/day
Grubhub - best delivery app

Grubhub partners with over 350,000 restaurants, providing drivers with many earning opportunities. With detailed order information and live phone support, Grubhub is the best delivery service to work for, ensuring a seamless delivery experience in cities in the US and London.

Drivers working at Grubhub are mostly suggested to schedule their shifts in advance. However, they can even open the app and drive whenever they have extra time.

This on-demand food delivery service mainly delivers for restaurants or fast food cafes, but it’s expanded to include convenience stores to deliver groceries to the customers.

Plan Client-Favored Grubhub Delivery

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Driver Requirements to Work for Grubhub:

  • Drivers must be at least 19 (21 in Chicago and Las Vegas).
  • The necessary documents include a valid driver’s license or state ID and car insurance.
  • A smartphone with a data plan is necessary (iOS 11 or higher or Android 5.0 or higher).

Pros and Cons of Delivering for GrubHub:

Pros
  • Live phone support for U.S. drivers
  • Encouraged generous tipping, default at 15%
  • Detailed order information before acceptance
Cons
  • Fewer incentives compared to other services
  • Must sign up for specific delivery locations

5. Caviar

Aspects Details
User ratings There is no pricing on Capterra
Industry Food Delivery
Average earnings $23.94/hour
Operational countries United States
Key features Easy-to-search design, Quick customer support, No-contact delivery, Fresh and healthy food options
Payment Frequency Weekly Direct Deposit, Instant payment using Dasher Fast Pay (includes a small fee of $1.99 per transaction) or via DasherDirect (DashDoor-exclusive prepaid debit card offering no-fee deposits)
Caviar - best delivery app

Formerly known for high-end food delivery, Caviar offers drivers access to diverse restaurants and transparent information on earnings. 

Caviar was primarily a higher-end food delivery app; however, since DoorDash purchased it in 2019, customers can now find a diverse food selection on Caviar. 

If you quickly search Caviar’s options, you’ll find everything from donuts to fast food, sushi, Indian food, etc.

Before accepting the order, Caviar provides a food delivery driver with complete information about the earnings and even “expected pay” for the entire day. 

Not only this, Caviar allows drivers to check for real-time estimates of their earnings before each delivery.

Here is how Cavier pays to its drivers;

Caviar’s payment model is similar to its parent company, DoorDash: Base Pay + Promotions + Tips =Total Earnings. Base Pay varies depending on where you’re delivering and can range from $2 to $10 per order.

Base Pay varies based on where you’re delivering and can range from $2-$10 per order. 

Driver Requirements to Work for Caviar:

  • The food delivery driver must be 18 years or older.
  • A social security number and background check is mandatory.
  • A valid driver’s license and auto insurance if you are driving a car.
  • Driver must own a smartphone.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Caviar:

Pros
  • See order details, including pay, before acceptance
  • There are no penalties for low order acceptance rates
  • Smaller delivery areas, fewer dead miles
Cons
  • Pay has decreased since DoorDash’s acquisition
  • Must schedule hours, less flexibility

6. Postmates

Aspects Details
User ratings 4.5/5 (21)
Industry Food, Grocery, and Alcohol Delivery
Average earnings $19-$22/hour
Operational countries United States
Key features Real-time notifications, Order tracking system, Easy pickup, and non-contact delivery
Payment Frequency Weekly, Instant cash-outs at any time (with a small fee of $0.50 per instant deposit)
Postmates - best delivery app to work

Postmates is one of the best food delivery apps in the United States. Its slogan says everything it provides: “Anything, anytime, anywhere.”

Postmates is now the best food delivery service to work for in more than 50 states. Even though Uber Eats acquired Postmates in 2020, it still operates as its brand.

Along with food delivery services, Postmates provides grocery services to customers. However, the most exciting part about Postmates is that, with monthly delivery charges of $9.99, you do not have to pay delivery fees on orders over $20. The delivery fees will depend on the order size and the overall distance.

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Driver Requirements to Work for Postmates:

  • Meet the minimum driving age eligibility to drive in your city.
  • Hold a valid U.S. driver’s license and vehicle insurance, too.
  • Possess at least one year of licensed driving experience (or three years if you’re below 23 years old).
  • Provide proof of residency in your city or state.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Postmates:

Pros
  • Easy and user-friendly
  • Great potential to earn
  • Flexible work hours
Cons
  • Direct deposit of payment is limited until a few requirements are met
  • Low payment on waiting

7. Uber Eats

Aspects Details
User ratings No ratings on Capterra
Industry Online Food Delivery Company
Average earnings $18.45/hour
Operational countries United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Japan, etc.
Key features Simple delivery ordering, Real-time order tracking, No-contact delivery option, Easy payment processing
Payment Frequency Weekly/Instant Cash Out
Uber eats - best delivery app to work for

Uber Eats is a top-rated food delivery app for which to work. Leading ridesharing giant Uber owns this food delivery application. The primary reason for getting the title “best delivery app” is because it has the best food delivery service capabilities.

Uber Eats started its journey in 2014, and now it has over 9,500 merchant partnerships to deliver food from your favorite nearby restaurants. 

For drivers expecting a customized working style, no work pressure, and flexible working hours, Uber Eats is the right choice.

Regarding Uber Eats pay, each fare is calculated based on time, distance, and any promotional pay minus a service fee. However, delivery drivers always keep 100% of their tips.

You can get paid weekly through the app or cash out the payment and receive Instant Pay on your debit card—terms apply.

Lastly, you can sign up for the Uber Visa Debit Card and cash out your earnings up to five times per day at no charge.

Driver Requirements to Work for Uber Eats: 

  • The minimum age requirement to become a food delivery gig driver at Uber Eats is 19 years.
  • A valid U.S. driver’s license is required to drive within the city.
  • A government-issued ID plus a driving experience of 1 year is also a must.
  • Delivery vehicles must meet the requirement of either a car no older than a 1999 model or a 50cc+ engine scooter.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Postmates:

Pros
  • Offers incentives for drivers
  • Good discounts and offers from restaurants
  • Drivers can choose the hours
Cons
  • Waiting time and traffic can be frustrating
  • GPS failure or vehicle wear and tear can be frustrating

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8. Favor Delivery

Aspects Details
User ratings 4.4/5 (417)
Industry Food Delivery
Average earnings $18/hour
Operational countries United States
Key features 100% contact-free delivery experience, Best customer support, Smooth payment processing
Payment Frequency Weekly (on every Wednesday)
Favor delivery

Favor is the easiest way to get anything you want in your city: food, groceries, wine, beer, and other essentials.

With a few taps on your mobile, this app allows you to quickly browse menus from multiple local restaurants and stores near you. In addition, the Favor app offers express food delivery service to prime customers, allowing them to receive their orders in less than 2 hours.

The good part about the Favor delivery app is that you can even create a custom favor. This allows your runner to be guided on where to go and what to get.

Driver Requirements to Work for Favor:

  • The minimum age requirement for a driver is 18 years old.
  • Driver must hold an active U.S. driver’s license.
  • Possess a bank account for processing direct deposits.
  • Have successfully cleared the background check.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Favor:

Pros
  • Deliver by bike in some areas; no car or license is needed
  • Higher-end driver pay
  • Above-average hourly guarantees
Cons
  • Only available in Texas

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9. Gopuff

Aspects Details
User ratings No ratings on Capterra
Industry Digital Delivery Service
Average earnings $15/hour
Operational countries United States, United Kingdom
Key features Non-contact delivery, Quick order and delivery, Secure payment processing, Awesome customer service
Payment Frequency Weekly (on Wednesday or Friday)
Gopuff

GoPuff provides the best delivery service for food and drinks, household essentials, baby and pet supplies, fancy water, energy drinks, snacks, ice cream, and even alcohol in some selected markets.

As said above, GoPuff specializes in delivering a wide range of essentials, from snacks to household items. With guaranteed minimum pay and convenient deliveries from one central hub, GoPuff makes earning easy.

Driver Requirements to Work for Gopuff:

  • The minimum age required is 21 years or older with a valid U.S. driver’s license.
  • Driver must consent to undergo a background check.
  • They must have access to a vehicle with proof of registration and insurance.
  • Maintain a smartphone with the latest operating system update.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for GoPuff:

Pros
  • Deliveries from one central hub
  • Guaranteed minimum pay
Cons
  • Less known, fewer openings for new drivers
  • May need to carry large amounts of cash

10. Amazon Flex

Aspects Details
User ratings No ratings on Capterra
Industry Same-day Grocery Shopping and Delivery Service
Average earnings $18–$25/hour
Operational countries United States, United Kingdom
Key features Flexible work schedule, Competitive payments, Weekly driver payments
Payment Frequency Twice Weekly
Amazon flex shopping

If you’re looking for a delivery driver opportunity, Amazon Flex can be your best bet. 

Amazon Flex allows drivers to deliver parcels to Amazon customers on their own scheduled dates and times. It operates in North America, the UK, Spain, Germany, Singapore, Japan, and India. Amazon Flex provides great pay and helps drivers deliver packages easily.

Whether you wish to save money or just want some part-time delivery app jobs, this one is a good option. Most of their delivery partners make around $18 to $25 per hour (although this may vary). It also allows drivers to schedule work in advance or perform same-day deliveries.

With competitive pay and twice-weekly payouts, Amazon Flex provides a reliable source of income.

Driver Requirements to Work for Amazon Flex:

  • Drivers must be at least 21 years old and live in a city where Flex operates.
  • Possess a valid US driver’s license and Social Security Number.
  • Have a mid-sized or larger vehicle for deliveries.
  • Own a smartphone with Android 7.0 or higher or iOS.

Pros and Cons of Delivering for Amazon Flex:

Pros
  • Payouts twice weekly
  • Higher hourly pay
  • Earn the same amount even if deliveries are completed early
Cons
  • Limited openings

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FAQ

In 2024, the best food delivery apps for drivers include DoorDash, Uber Eats, Instacart, Grubhub, Amazon Flex, Shipt, Postmates, Roadie, Favor, and GoPuff.

To maximize earnings, choose automated route planning and optimization apps, work during peak hours, optimize your routes, and provide excellent customer service for better tips.

Yes, the delivery route planning app is available on Android and iOS.

Pay rates vary, but apps like Amazon Flex and Instacart are known for offering higher earnings per delivery compared to others.

You can sign up on the app’s website or mobile app, complete the required background check, provide the necessary documents, and start accepting delivery orders.

Vehicle requirements vary by app. Most accept cars, but some also accept bikes, scooters, and walking in certain cities.

Yes, many drivers work for multiple delivery apps simultaneously to maximize their earnings and take advantage of different demand periods.

Delivery drivers are typically responsible for their own fuel and vehicle maintenance costs. Some delivery routing applications like Upper Solo assist you plan and optimizing routes efficiently covering minimum time, shortest distance, and reduced fuel consumption.

Most apps have in-app support or customer service you can contact for assistance with issues like undeliverable orders, app glitches, or payment problems.

Yes, most apps require drivers to have valid auto insurance. Some apps also offer additional insurance coverage for drivers during deliveries.

Payments are usually made weekly via direct deposit, but some delivery driver apps offer instant payout options by applying a transaction fee. Earnings include base pay, tips, and potential bonuses.

Conclusion

We hope you can now choose your preferred options outside of the food delivery industry, businesses that focus on grocery delivery, alcohol delivery service, or other markets. Although you have so many delivery apps to choose from, you need the best route optimization software to streamline your tasks.

Moreover, you can deliver with finesse at any of these companies when you have the most time-saving routes available. 

Upper Route Planner allows multiple addresses to be imported through the Excel import feature in one go. You don’t need manual planning or searching for delivery routes, as the smart algorithm helps you find the best ones within a few seconds.

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Author Bio
Riddhi Patel
Riddhi Patel

Riddhi, the Head of Marketing, leads campaigns, brand strategy, and market research. A champion for teams and clients, her focus on creative excellence drives impactful marketing and business growth. When she is not deep in marketing, she writes blog posts or plays with her dog, Copper. Read more.