Best Gig Apps to Make Some Extra Cash in 2024

Comparing the best apps for gig work

A closer look at the top gig apps that can help you make extra money

Uber

Key features:

• Drive your own car and set your own hours.
• Earn money from each fare collected from passengers.
• Easy, safe, and fun way to make money.
• Option to supplement income or make it a full-time job.

Earning potential:

• Income varies based on location, hours driven, and service provided.
• Most drivers earn around $15 to $20 per hour before vehicle expenses.
• Full-time drivers can earn upwards of $1,000 per week with extended working hours.

Requirements:

• Meet minimum age and driving experience requirements.
• Clear a background check.
• Possess a valid driver’s license, proof of residency, and insurance (if using your own car)

Our verdict:

When it comes to gig work in the ridesharing industry, Uber stands out as one of the best gig apps. It offers a flexible schedule, allowing you to drive your car and set your own hours. The earning potential with Uber is significant, with the opportunity to make money from each fare collected from passengers. The platform is easy to use, safe, and provides a fun way to earn extra income.

Pros:

• No special licenses or qualifications required.
• Opportunity to earn more through bonuses and incentives.
• Drive whenever you want, offering flexibility in working hours.

Cons:

• Surges in demand during peak hours may increase competition among drivers.
• Gas and car maintenance costs can impact profitability.
• Waiting for rides may be time-consuming.

DoorDash

Key features:

• Pick up meals from local restaurants and deliver them to customers.
• Flexible work schedule with no restrictions on hours

Earning potential:

• Earn $2 to $10 per order plus 100% of customer tips.
• Average annual income of $54,181 for DoorDash drivers

Requirements:

• Valid driver’s license
• Reliable vehicle (car, scooter, or bicycle in select cities)
• Smartphone
• Good customer service skills
• Consent to a background check

Our verdict:

DoorDash is an excellent gig app for those looking to earn extra money on their own terms. It offers flexibility and control over your work schedule, allowing you to decide when and how much you want to work. With competitive earning potential and the ability to keep 100% of customer tips, DoorDash is a popular choice for gig workers.

Pros:

• Flexible schedules and the ability to accept or reject jobs.
• 100% ownership of all tips received.
• Quick and easy customer interactions

Cons:

• Inconsistent order flow based on demand and supply.
• Responsibility for vehicle expenses and maintenance
• Income not guaranteed during slow periods.

Lyft

Key features:

• Connects drivers with ride seekers through the app.
• Flexible work hours and real-time passenger requests
• Earning potential:
• Average annual pay of $31,164 for Lyft drivers in the United States
• Hourly earnings range between $15 and $20 in major markets

Requirements:

• Submit application and pass a background check.
• Clean driving history and valid driver’s license
• 4-door vehicle (rental options available)
• Proof of insurance and compliance with state/city-specific requirements

Our verdict:

Lyft is a popular gig app for drivers looking to earn extra money by providing rides to passengers. With flexible hours, real-time requests, and the ability to withdraw earnings at any time, Lyft offers a driver-friendly experience.

Pros:

• Flexibility to set your own hours and earn on your terms.
• Access to real-time passenger requests and profile information
• An option to earn additional bonuses for achieving driving goals.

Cons:

• Responsibility for vehicle expenses, tolls, maintenance fees, and insurance
• Fluctuating income based on city demand and time of day.
• Possibility of encountering difficult or unpleasant passengers

Instacart

Key features:

• Online grocery delivery service
• Shop for groceries and deliver them to customers’ doorsteps.

Earning potential:

• Most shoppers make between $15-$25 per hour plus tips.
• Income depends on the area, order availability, and task completion.

Requirements:

• Access to reliable transportation
• Create an account at shoppers.instacart.com.
• Download the Instacart Shopper app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store

Our verdict:

Instacart is a convenient gig app for those interested in grocery shopping and delivery. With a flexible schedule, quick payouts, and the ability to earn tips, Instacart offers a rewarding opportunity for shoppers.

Pros:

• Flexible schedule, work whenever and wherever
• Quick payouts, weekly or daily with direct deposit
• Opportunity to earn tips from customers.

Cons:

• Dependence on reliable transportation
• Dealing with demanding customers may cause stress.
• Instacart takes a commission from earnings.

Survey Junkie

Key features:

• Take surveys and earn rewards such as cash and gift cards.
• Simple signup process and user-friendly interface
• Varied surveys to choose from
• Secure payments and helpful customer support

Earning potential:

• Earn anywhere from $1 to $50 per survey.
• Expect to earn a few hundred dollars per month.

Requirements:

• Must be 16 years of age or older.
• Must reside in the U.S., Canada, or Australia

Our verdict:

Survey Junkie is a reliable platform for earning extra money by sharing your opinions through surveys. While the payout rates can be low and surveys time-consuming, it offers a flexible schedule and a chance to start reaching your financial goals today.

Pros:

• Flexible schedule, take surveys whenever you have free time.
• Easy-to-understand interface and rewards system.
• No risk involved, joining is free.
• Fast payout process

Cons:

• Low payout rates may require taking many surveys for substantial profit.
• Surveys can be time-consuming.
• Limited availability for certain demographics

TaskRabbit

Key features:

• Connects people in need of help with local workers called Taskers.
• Offers a wide variety of manual labor gigs, including moving, furniture assembly, home repairs, and odd jobs.
• Taskers can set their own pricing and choose the types of jobs they want to perform.

Earning potential:

• Average hourly pay for Taskers in the U.S. is $35
• Earnings depend on location and the type of work performed.

Requirements:

• Must have a U.S. social security number and be at least 18 years old.
• Background and ID check required.
• Requires a smartphone with iOS 9.0 or later or Android version 4.3 or later.

Our verdict:

TaskRabbit is an excellent platform for individuals looking to earn money by providing numerous services. With flexible work options and the ability to set your own rates, it offers consistent pay and the opportunity to work on your own terms.

Pros:

• Flexible schedule and the ability to choose the types of jobs you want to perform.
• Consistent pay and the ability to set your own rates.
• Limited insurance coverage for certain damages
• Option for contactless or virtual work tasks

Cons:

• Upfront fee charged for new Taskers.
• Work can be inconsistent depending on location demand.

Amazon Flex

Key features:

• Deliver packages on behalf of Amazon using your own vehicle.
• Flexible schedule, allowing you to work as much or as little as you like.
• Convenient app that handles scheduling, package scanning, and navigation

Earning potential:

• The average annual pay for an Amazon Flex Delivery Driver in the United States is $42,889
• Earnings may vary based on location, tips received, delivery completion time, and other factors.

Requirements:

• Must be 21 years old or older.
• Access to a qualifying vehicle (4-door sedan, pickup truck, or van)
• Social security number, valid driver’s license, and proof of auto insurance
• Smartphone with iOS 13 or newer (iPhone 6s or higher) or Android version 6.0 or higher

Our verdict:

Amazon Flex offers a flexible and convenient gig opportunity for drivers to earn money by delivering packages for Amazon. With the ability to set your own schedule and high earnings potential, it is a great option for those looking for a side hustle.

Pros:

• High earnings potential, including the ability to keep 100% of tips.
• Flexibility to choose delivery blocks that fit your schedule.
• Fast cash earnings and the option to cancel delivery blocks with no penalties.

Cons:

• Earnings may vary based on location, tips, and delivery completion time.
• Vehicle expenses are not covered.
• Competition for delivery shifts may be high, making it challenging to consistently get shifts.

GrubHub

Key features:

• Food delivery app connecting drivers, restaurants, and customers.
• Available in over 3,000 cities across the U.S.
• Earn base pay for mileage and time, plus tips and exclusive offers.

Earning potential:

• The average annual pay for a Grubhub Delivery Driver in the United States is $52,000

Requirements:

• Must be over 18 years old (21+ in Las Vegas)
• iPhone with iOS 11 or higher OR Android with 5.0 or higher
• Checking account for direct deposit
• Additional requirements for car or bicycle delivery may apply.

Our verdict:

Grubhub is a popular food delivery app offering drivers the opportunity to earn money by delivering food. With a wide availability and good income potential, it is a top choice for gig workers.

Pros:

• Flexible schedules with 100% of tips going to drivers.
• Guaranteed minimum earnings and the option to deliver by bicycle.

• Collaborates with a variety of restaurants, including local joints and national chains.

Cons:

• Potential wear and tear on vehicles
• Penalties for missed shifts, rejected deliveries, or dropped orders.

Fiverr

Key features:

• Leading marketplace for freelance jobs
• Wide range of services offered, including graphic design, writing, and more.
• Ability to set your own rates and find steady work.

Earning potential:

• Average income varies depending on industry niche, activity level, and service prices.

Requirements:

• Users must be at least 18 years old and of legal age to form a binding contract.
• Create a seller profile and gigs advertising your services.

Our verdict:

Fiverr is a top platform for freelancers to highlight their skills and find a variety of gigs. With its user-friendly interface and the ability to set your own prices, it offers great earning potential.

Pros:

• Free to join and easy to use.
• Direct money transfer upon completing orders.
• Wide range of services available for freelancers

Cons:

• Platform fee of 20% on each transaction
• Tips for sellers are also subject to the platform fee.
• Competitive marketplace, and higher prices may receive less business.

Airbnb

Key features:

• Online marketplace for short-term property rentals
• Provides alternative lodging options to hotels and motels.
• Convenient management of reservations and payments through the app

Earning potential:

• Average income for hosts in the U.S. is over $9,000 per year, varying based on rental prices and frequency.

Requirements:

• Ownership of property and being respectful to guests
• Attentive and responsive to reservation requests
• Maintaining the property and offering quality experiences to receive honest reviews.

Our verdict: Airbnb offers a flexible and convenient way for hosts to earn extra income by renting out their homes or properties. With its extensive reach and user-friendly platform, it is a recommended app for those looking to capitalize on their real estate.

Pros:

• Potential to earn a decent amount, especially during peak seasons.
• Simplified management process through the app
• Freedom to set your own rates and rental schedule.

Cons:

• Demanding work that requires attending to guest inquiries and property maintenance
• Discouragement of cancellations, which may be challenging in unforeseen circumstances.
• Not suitable for those uncomfortable with strangers staying on their property.

What you should look for in a gig app

Unlock the best gig app for your needs! Find the perfect platform that offers the features and benefits you desire. Discover how to choose a gig app that aligns with your preferences and helps you maximize your earning potential.

1. Flexibility

When selecting a gig app for work, prioritize platforms that offer flexibility. Look for apps that allow you to set your own schedule, so you can work when it suits you best. The best apps for gig work provide the freedom to choose gigs that fit your availability and lifestyle.

2. Accessibility

The top gig apps prioritize accessibility, ensuring they are available on both iOS and Android devices. Seek out apps that are easy to download and navigate, allowing you to quickly find and apply for gigs on the go. Accessibility is key to maximizing your potential earnings.

3. Convenience

Convenience is crucial when it comes to gig apps. Look for platforms that offer a seamless user experience, with intuitive interfaces, clear gig descriptions, and straightforward application processes. The best gig job apps simplify the gig-seeking process and minimize the time spent on administrative tasks.

4. Mobility

Mobile-friendly gig apps are essential for gig workers on the move. Choose apps that provide a mobile platform, enabling you to accept and complete gigs from anywhere. With mobility, you can work remotely, travel, or switch locations while still being able to access and manage your gigs efficiently.

5. Variety

The best gig apps offer a wide range of gig opportunities to cater to diverse skills and interests. Look for platforms that cover various industries, such as ridesharing, delivery services, freelance work, or pet sitting. Having access to a variety of gigs ensures you can explore different avenues and find work that aligns with your preferences and capabilities.

Tips for making money with gig apps

1. Choose the right gig apps: Research and identify the best gig apps for your skills and interests. Look for platforms like Uber, TaskRabbit, Fiverr, or Instacart that offer a variety of gig opportunities.
2. Optimize your profile: Create a compelling and professional profile highlighting your skills, experience, and qualifications. Highlight your expertise to attract potential clients or customers.
3. Be proactive: Actively search for gigs and apply promptly. Respond to inquiries or requests quickly, showing your reliability and commitment to potential clients.
4. Provide excellent service: Deliver high-quality work, provide exceptional customer service, and go the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction. Positive reviews and referrals can boost your reputation and attract more gig opportunities.
5. Maximize your availability: Be flexible with your availability and take advantage of peak demand periods or high-earning opportunities. This may involve working during evenings, weekends, or holidays.
6. Leverage networking: Network within the gig community and seek referrals from satisfied clients. Building relationships and connections can lead to recurring gigs and word-of-mouth recommendations.
7. Manage your time and finances: Efficiently organize your schedule, prioritize tasks, and track your earnings. Set aside funds for taxes and expenses to ensure you are financially prepared.
8. Continuously improve your skills: Stay updated with industry trends, enhance your skills, and seek opportunities for professional growth. This can help you stand out and command higher rates in the big economy.

The product information provided here is based on research conducted up to a specific date and may have changed. For the latest and most accurate information, we recommend you to visit the respective app’s website before proceeding.

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