Where in the world have all the Ubers gone?

It seems like the popular rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are facing a staffing shortage similar to the hospitality industry, leaving Soda Citizens waiting longer to catch a ride.

Uber launched in South Carolina in 2014 and up until the pandemic took over, being an Uber driver was smooth sailing. In pre-pandemic times, an average wait time in South Carolina was approx. 5 minutes and almost 90% of requested rides arrived in 10 minutes or less.

Ever wonder how much a rideshare driver can make? According to Salary.com, the average Uber driver in Columbia earns $33,8032 a year, and the scale can range from $28,000 to $41,000+.

Around this time last year, Uber saw the demand for rides decrease by ~80% with people staying home, more people working remotely + restaurants closing to dine-in options. This forced the company to lay off 3,700 drivers nationally and go on a hiring freeze. Those layoffs cut the company by 14%. Lyft also laid off about 1,000 drivers, which accounted for 17% of the company.

Fast forward to May 2021 — with the return of community events, restaurants reopening to full capacity, and the lifting of other restrictions, where did all the drivers go?

Uber map of Columbia, SC | Photo via COLAtoday team

Both companies have reported difficulties getting drivers back behind the wheel and there are currently not enough drivers to meet the demand. Curious for more on driving for these companies? Learn how to become an Uber driver here or sign up to work for Lyft here.

To help sweeten the deal, Uber also announced a $250 million driver stimulus to go the extra mile and increase the earnings for drivers during this transitional time. The company noted the incentive was needed to help bring existing drivers back + ensure newbies make enough while they take the training wheels off.