New data released by international ride-hailing platform, inDrive, shows that the country’s 50 top earning drivers on the platform are earning above-average monthly income.
According to figures from the first half of 2025, the top 50 earning drivers on the platform each made an average of R27,120.35 per month, totalling R162,722.11 over the six-month period assessed.
The data comes at a time when South Africa’s official unemployment rate increased to 32.9% in the first quarter of 2025, with many citizens turning to flexible gig work to make ends meet.
The data also notes an increase in the number of trips completed by top drivers compared to the same period last year, while the average time spent per trip has slightly decreased. This suggests a growing focus among top performers on completing high volumes of shorter, quicker trips to boost earnings. However, longer-distance travel, such as intercity rides, remains a viable source of income, especially for drivers operating along tourism or commuter corridors.
“What stands out in this data is not just the earnings, but the flexibility that drivers have at their disposal to build a workday that works for them, whether that’s multiple short trips or fewer longer ones. inDrive drivers are also taking advantage of the platform’s low commission model, which helps them keep more of what they earn,” said Ashif Black, Country Representative for inDrive South Africa.
Towards a fairer ride hailing industry
A key feature of the inDrive platform is its peer-to-peer pricing model, which enables passengers and drivers to negotiate fares directly before a ride. According to the latest analysis, nearly 65% of trips are completed at a price that differs from the app’s suggested fare, highlighting the continued relevance of this alternative approach.
For many drivers, this pricing freedom has proven particularly valuable in navigating economic uncertainty, fuel costs and fluctuating demand. “In a country where job opportunities remain scarce and the cost of living continues to climb, platforms that offer gig employment like inDrive are filling a crucial gap,” added Black.