As the gig economy continues to grow globally, delivery work has emerged as one of the most accessible and scalable sources of income. From food and grocery delivery to last-mile e-commerce logistics, the need for reliable couriers has never been greater. But not all cities offer the same potential. Factors like demand, platform saturation, tipping culture, infrastructure, and cost of living all influence profitability. In this article, we explore the most profitable cities for delivery work in 2025, spanning major urban hubs across North America, Europe, Africa, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, and Central America.
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What Makes a City Profitable for Delivery Work?
Several factors determine whether a city is truly profitable for delivery work. One of the most important is population density. The more people living in a concentrated area, the more delivery opportunities are available each hour.
Wealth concentration also plays a role. Affluent cities tend to generate higher order volumes and better tips. In countries like the U.S., tipping is culturally expected, while in many European cities, it’s discretionary and less common.
However, high earning potential needs to be weighed against the cost of living. A city may offer $25 an hour, but if rent, fuel, and food costs are exorbitant, the actual take-home pay may not be as attractive.
Infrastructure and traffic conditions are also crucial. While dense cities can be delivery goldmines, constant congestion or poor route planning can reduce the number of orders a driver completes per hour, directly impacting profitability.
The 10 Most Profitable Cities for Delivery Work in 2025
Although the USA and UK are home to some of the most profitable delivery cities, our focus is on highlighting top opportunities around the world.
1. New York City, USA
New York City continues to rank among the most profitable cities for delivery work due to its nonstop demand and urban density. The city thrives on food, grocery, and e-commerce deliveries. DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, and Amazon Flex dominate here.
Tipping culture is strong -15–25% is typical. Despite a high cost of living, couriers can earn up to $30 per hour during peak times, particularly in Manhattan and Brooklyn.
2. London, United Kingdom
London remains one of the UK’s top cities for gig work, thanks to its fast-paced lifestyle and heavy reliance on delivery services. Uber Eats, Deliveroo, and Just Eat lead the market.
Drivers typically earn £15–£20 per hour, especially in Zones 1–3. Tipping isn’t as ingrained as in the U.S., but it’s becoming more common, especially among younger users and during premium delivery windows.
3. Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos stands out as one of Africa’s most profitable cities for delivery work in 2025. With over 21 million residents and a surging digital economy, delivery demand is booming.
Platforms like Gokada and Jumia Food are key players. While tipping is rare, riders can earn ₦1,500–₦3,000 per day (around $2–$4 USD), a solid income relative to local costs.
4. Toronto, Canada
Toronto is a multicultural, delivery-friendly city with a strong digital infrastructure. Uber Eats, DoorDash, and SkipTheDishes are widely used.
Drivers earn between CAD $18–$25 per hour, bolstered by a tipping culture where 10–20% gratuities are standard. The city’s balanced cost-to-earnings ratio makes it one of the best places for gig workers in North America.
5. Sydney, Australia
Sydney’s mix of urban density and suburban sprawl offers great delivery flexibility. Platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Menulog are key players.
With Australia’s high minimum wage, delivery drivers commonly earn AUD $25–$30 per hour. Tipping isn’t as culturally entrenched but is on the rise, especially through in-app platforms.
6. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is one of Europe’s most accessible cities for delivery drivers. Its infrastructure is ideal for cycling and scooter deliveries, helping reduce operating costs.
Lieferando, Uber Eats, and Gorillas lead the way. Couriers typically earn €12–€18 per hour, and the city’s moderate cost of living improves profitability.
7. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona continues to thrive as a delivery hotspot. Its compact layout, tourism-driven economy, and restaurant density create ample demand.
Glovo, based in Barcelona, is the dominant platform, with Uber Eats gaining ground. Riders earn €10–€15 per hour, with better returns in tourist districts. Tipping is inconsistent but growing.
8. São Paulo, Brazil
As Brazil’s largest city, São Paulo offers enormous delivery potential. iFood, Rappi, and Uber Eats dominate here, especially for motorbike couriers.
Delivery drivers earn R$15–R$25 per hour, especially during peak mealtimes. While tipping isn’t yet standard, it’s becoming more common with digital payment systems.
9. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires offers a steady income stream for gig workers, particularly in neighborhoods like Palermo and Recoleta. Platforms include PedidosYa, Rappi, and Uber Eats.
Riders earn ARS $1,500–$2,000 per day, and the city’s low cost of living makes delivery work sustainable even with modest tips.
10. Panama City, Panama
Panama City is quickly becoming one of Central America’s most profitable cities for delivery work. Its compact layout supports high delivery frequency.
Rappi, Appetito24, and Uber Eats are widely used. With hourly earnings around $8–$12, couriers benefit from growing digital tipping habits and a strong middle-class customer base.
Global Trends Making Delivery Work More Lucrative
In today’s digital economy, businesses that don’t offer delivery options risk falling behind. This has fueled a surge in mobile ordering, spanning everything from food and groceries to electronics and pharmaceuticals.
In many countries with rising middle classes, there’s a growing preference for convenience over in-store shopping. Add to this the continued rise of e-commerce and last-mile logistics, and it’s clear that delivery work is here to stay.
Additionally, as gig work becomes more normalized, some regions are beginning to offer better protections, benefits, and even incentive structures for couriers.
These global shifts are expanding the list of profitable cities for delivery work, opening doors for both newcomers and experienced drivers alike.
Conclusion
In 2025, delivery work offers more than just flexibility – it provides real earning potential for those in the right markets. From global megacities like New York and São Paulo to rising stars like Panama City and Lagos, opportunity abounds for delivery drivers who know where to look.
Whether you’re thinking of relocating, starting fresh, or simply maximizing your local opportunities, keep this list in mind. The world’s most profitable cities for delivery work are calling, and your next high-earning shift could be just around the corner.