The Best Side Hustles in 2026: What Actually Works for Rideshare & Delivery Drivers

— By Sergio Avedian —

For rideshare and delivery drivers, side hustles aren’t a trendy concept; they’re a necessity. In 2026, declining per-mile pay, rising vehicle costs, and constant algorithm changes have made it clear: relying on a single app is risky.

The good news? Drivers already have the skills, flexibility, and mindset to succeed in multiple income streams. The smartest drivers today use Uber, Lyft, and delivery apps as cash-flow tools, while building side hustles that offer more control and long-term upside.

Here are the best side hustles in 2026, tailored specifically for rideshare and delivery drivers.

1. Rideshare Driving (Uber & Lyft): Still Useful, But Strategic

Rideshare driving remains one of the fastest ways to generate cash. The key difference in 2026 is that brute-force driving no longer works. Profitability depends on knowing when not to drive.

The drivers who still make good money:

• Focus on events, airport runs, and surge windows

• Avoid low-pay, long-distance trips

• Use rideshare as short, intentional work blocks, not endless hours

Think of rideshare as a liquidity engine, not a career. It’s best used to fund other goals like paying bills, investing, or launching another hustle.

Sign Up for Uber 

Sign Up for Lyft

2. Delivery Apps: Smarter, Quieter, and More Selective

Delivery continues to appeal to drivers who prefer less passenger interaction and more predictability. In 2026, grocery delivery, large orders, and catering runs tend to outperform fast-food volume chasing.

Top delivery drivers:

• Decline aggressively

• Target high-tip customers

• Stack orders only when it makes sense

Delivery pairs perfectly with rideshare, especially during slow passenger hours. It’s not about loyalty to one app; it’s about maximizing dollars per mile and per hour.

Sign Up for Uber Eats

Sign Up for DoorDash

Sign Up for Instacart

3. Multi-App Driving Is No Longer Optional

If you’re still driving one app at a time, you’re leaving money on the table.

In 2026, successful drivers run:

• Uber + Lyft

• Rideshare + delivery

• Driving apps + task or service platforms

Multi-apping gives you leverage over the algorithm instead of the other way around. The goal isn’t chaos; it’s an optional choice.

4. Local Service Businesses (The Best Upgrade Path)

Many drivers eventually realize they’re already doing the hardest part of a business: showing up reliably and dealing with customers.

That’s why local services are one of the best side hustles for drivers:

• Mobile car detailing

• Pet sitting or dog walking

• House cleaning

• Junk removal

• Move-out cleaning

These services often pay 2–3x more per hour than driving, with far less vehicle wear. Many drivers use rideshare income to fund startup costs, then gradually replace app income entirely.

5. Freelancing & Remote Work (Using Skills You Already Have)

Drivers underestimate how valuable their skills are. Communication, time management, navigation, and customer service all translate well into freelance work.

Popular options in 2026:

• Virtual assistant services

• Social media management

• Basic bookkeeping

• Writing or editing

• Customer support

Unlike driving, freelancing decouples income from miles driven. One client can replace an entire week of app driving.

6. Content Creation for Drivers (YouTube, Blogs, Newsletters)

Drivers trust other drivers more than corporate messaging. That’s why driver-focused content continues to perform well.

You don’t need a massive audience. Niches work:

• City-specific driving strategies

• EV ownership for drivers

• Expense tracking and taxes

• Real earnings breakdowns

Many drivers monetize through ads, affiliates, sponsorships, or digital products. The key is authenticity and documenting what you’re already doing.

7. Digital Products: Monetizing What You’ve Learned

If you’ve figured out how to:

• Track expenses

• Optimize your schedule

• Reduce costs

• Improve profitability

…someone else will pay to learn it faster.

Digital products like spreadsheets, guides, or short courses allow drivers to earn while offline. Once created, they can generate income without driving another mile.

8. Reselling & Flipping (Perfect for Drivers on the Road)

Drivers are constantly moving through neighborhoods, stores, and marketplaces. That makes reselling a natural fit.

Popular flipping categories in 2026:

• Furniture

• Electronics

• Tools

• Clearance retail items

Many drivers combine delivery shifts with sourcing inventory, maximizing time already spent on the road.

9. AI-Assisted Hustles (Leverage, Not Replacement)

AI hasn’t eliminated side hustles — it’s made them faster. Drivers use AI tools to:

• Write listings

• Create content

• Design products

• Automate outreach

Those who embrace AI gain leverage. Those who ignore it fall behind.

My Take: Think Like an Independent Operator

The biggest mindset shift for drivers in 2026 is this: you are not an employee, you’re an independent operator.

Rideshare and delivery still matter, but they should support your broader strategy, not define it. The best side hustles for drivers are the ones that:

• Reduce dependency on any single app

• Increase hourly earnings

• Create long-term flexibility

Driving can open doors, but only if you use it intentionally.

Email me your comments to [email protected]

Sergio@RSG

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