I quit driving for Uber after I got a full-time finance job. Ride-hailing took more unpaid work than it used to.

Business Insider

February 28, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

James Howe, a former Uber driver who transitioned to a full-time finance job after leaving the ride-hailing platform, shares his insights on why he quit. For over a decade, he relied on Uber as his main income source, initially as a part-time driver and later full-time after losing his traditional job. However, over time, he noticed significant changes in how Uber operates. The introduction of upfront pricing algorithms made it harder to predict earnings, requiring him to spend more unpaid hours searching for rides without the same financial return. This shift, combined with increased competition on the app, led him to reject many low-paying rides and operate more like a business owner than an employee. The turning point came after Howe landed a finance job through a chance encounter with an Uber passenger who was an executive at the company. He hasn’t driven for Uber since December, focusing instead on his new role. Looking back, he questions whether driving full-time for Uber would have been sustainable long-term due to the time demands and diminishing returns. While he enjoyed connecting with people during drives, he believes Uber’s culture has shifted away from supporting drivers, despite company claims of offering promotions and retention programs like Uber Pro tiers. This story highlights broader challenges in the gig economy, where platforms often prioritize growth over fair compensation for workers. Howe’s experience underscores how changes in platform policies can impact driver livelihoods and lead to burnout. His transition to a traditional job reflects a growing trend among gig workers seeking more stable and fulfilling career opportunities. For businesses, this serves as a reminder of the importance of creating sustainable models that value their workforce and retain talent.

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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/28/2026