If you’re thinking about getting into delivery work this year, one of the biggest questions you probably have is: how much does a takeaway delivery driver make in 2025? With the cost of living still rising and gig work more popular than ever, many people are turning to food delivery to earn extra cash or even make a full-time living.
Whether you’re in the UK or the US, this article breaks down real earnings, what affects your pay, and how to boost your income in the food delivery world.
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What are the numbers for 2025?
In 2025, the average takeaway delivery driver earns between:
- £9.00 to £11.00 per hour in the UK
- $13.00 to $16.00 per hour in the US
Those numbers can go higher, especially in big cities or during peak hours, and lower in slower areas or off-peak times. Your earnings will depend on where you are, how many apps you use, and how you approach the job.
Takeaway Delivery Driver Pay in the UK
In the UK, most drivers work for platforms like Just Eat, Deliveroo, or Uber Eats. Pay is generally per delivery, with bonuses and tips on top.
Average Pay Breakdown:
- Per delivery: Around £3.00 to £5.00
- Hourly average: Between £9.00 and £11.00
- City peak hours (like London): £12.00 to £15.00/hr, sometimes up to £18.00
According to Glassdoor and recent 2025 reports, Just Eat drivers earn roughly £10/hour, while Deliveroo drivers often make £12–£15/hour, especially during busy times like dinner rush and weekends. Riders in London report even higher hourly rates thanks to stacked orders and surge pricing.
Of course, if you’re in a smaller town or rural area, you might see pay closer to £9.00/hour, with fewer orders and longer distances between them.
Takeaway Delivery Driver Pay in the US
In the US, drivers typically work with DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, or Postmates. Tips are a bigger part of the income in the States, and in some cities, base pay is supplemented by local wage laws.
Typical Pay Breakdown:
- Base pay per delivery: $2.50 – $5.00
- Tips: $3.00 – $6.00 average
- Promos & peak pay: $1 – $4 extra per order
- Hourly average: $13.00 – $16.00
- NYC guaranteed wage: $17.96/hr (rising to $19.96/hr by April 2025)
Grubhub drivers currently average about $14.50/hour, while Uber Eats and DoorDash vary based on market. In high-demand areas like New York City or Los Angeles, takeaway delivery drivers can earn over $20/hour during busy periods, especially if they stack orders and drive smart.
Full-Time vs. Part-Time: What’s Better?
The answer to this question depends on your lifestyle and goals.
Part-Time Driving
Many drivers choose to deliver part-time to make some side income. If you’re only working evenings or weekends:
- UK: You can earn £100–£150/week
- US: You might make $150–$250/week
It’s flexible and works well with other jobs or responsibilities.
Full-Time Driving
Going full-time takes planning and a lot of energy, but it can bring in solid money:
- UK: Full-time takeaway drivers can earn £500–£700/week
- US: Full-timers often make $800–$1,200/week, depending on location and hours
Just remember: those numbers are before expenses like fuel, insurance, and vehicle wear and tear.
Tips to Boost Your Takeaway Delivery Income
If you want to earn more in 2025, here are five ways to work smarter, not harder:
- Work during peak hours – Dinner time (6–9 PM) and weekends are where the money is.
- Use multiple apps – Sign up for more than one (e.g., Uber Eats + Deliveroo) to avoid downtime.
- Deliver in high-tip zones – Wealthier neighborhoods or business areas often bring bigger tips.
- Use an electric bike or scooter – Cut fuel and parking costs, especially in the UK.
- Track all expenses – Keep records for taxes and claim mileage or fuel if you’re self-employed.
Is It Worth It in 2025?
If flexibility and independence matter to you, being a takeaway delivery driver is still a solid option in 2025. You’re your own boss, you choose your hours, and you don’t need a degree or even a CV to start.
It’s not always easy, though. Bad weather, long waits at restaurants, and occasional rude customers are part of the job. But if you know your area, optimize your routes, and take advantage of promotions and peak pay, you can make it work for you.
Conclusion
So, how much does a takeaway delivery driver make in 2025? In short:
- UK: £9–£11/hour, up to £15+ during peak
- US: $13–$16/hour, $20+ in hot markets, and $19.96/hr guaranteed in NYC
If you’re willing to hustle and work smart, takeaway delivery can offer a reliable income with the flexibility to fit your life. For many drivers, that balance is exactly what makes this gig worth it in 2025.