How Much Do Uber Drivers Make in Kingston, Ontario?

In recent years, the gig economy has reshaped the employment landscape, offering Canadians more flexible and independent ways to earn a living. Among these options, Uber stands out as one of the most recognized ride-sharing platforms in the world. Whether you're a student, part-time worker, or someone looking to make a full-time income on your own schedule, driving for Uber can be an enticing opportunity. However, one of the most frequently asked questions is: "How much do Uber drivers make in Kingston, Ontario?"

In this detailed blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Uber driver earnings in Kingston, from average hourly rates to expenses, peak earning times, and tips to maximize your income. We will also examine real-life insights from current and former Uber drivers, explore data from job platforms and surveys, and discuss the pros and cons of ride-sharing work in a mid-sized Canadian city like Kingston.

Understanding Uber’s Payment Model

Before diving into the numbers, it's essential to understand how Uber calculates driver pay. Uber drivers in Canada earn based on the following structure:

Base Fare – A flat fee for every ride.
Time – A per-minute rate based on the total trip duration.
Distance – A per-kilometre rate based on the length of the ride.
Surge Pricing – Additional bonuses during high-demand periods.
Tips – 100% of tips go directly to the driver.
Promotions & Bonuses – Occasionally offered incentives for completing a specific number of trips or driving during specific times.

In Kingston, Ontario, which is a smaller urban centre compared to Toronto or Ottawa, these factors can vary significantly, making it even more important to break down the numbers.

Average Hourly Pay in Kingston, Ontario

Reported Earnings

Based on data from job platforms and surveys, here’s a general idea of what Uber drivers make in Kingston:

Glassdoor: Reports Uber drivers in Kingston earn between CA$19 to CA$21 per hour, averaging around CA$20/hour.
Indeed: Across Ontario, earnings range from CA$14 to CA$35/hour, with an average of CA$20.89/hour.
Dundas Life: Provides a Canada-wide average of CA$20.59/hour, with ranges typically between CA$15 and CA$31/hour.
Vaia Job Listings: Ads for Uber drivers in Kingston suggest potential earnings of CA$24 to CA$27.50/hour during high-demand periods.

Real-Life Driver Testimonials

Many Uber drivers share their earnings experiences through online forums such as Reddit and Facebook groups. Here are a few notable insights:

A 2019 Kingston Reddit user shared that their family member was making around $500 a week by driving part-time, with the potential for more if availability increased.
A recent (2025) Reddit post from a Canadian driver reported that during active driving hours (excluding idle time), they averaged $25 to $35/hour.

These anecdotes confirm that while official numbers suggest a $20/hr average, experienced and strategic drivers can push their earnings higher, especially by capitalizing on peak demand hours.

Gross vs. Net Earnings: Factoring in Expenses

Common Expenses for Uber Drivers

Uber drivers are classified as independent contractors in Canada, meaning they are responsible for their own vehicle maintenance, fuel, insurance, taxes, and other related costs. Common expenses include:

Fuel: Depending on your vehicle and driving habits, fuel costs can range from $0.10 to $0.20 per km.
Vehicle Maintenance: Oil changes, tire rotations, brake replacements, and general upkeep are regular expenses.
Insurance: Rideshare insurance is mandatory and can be costlier than personal coverage.
Depreciation: The wear and tear on your vehicle can significantly affect its resale value.
Taxes: Drivers must report their Uber earnings as self-employed income and pay the applicable income and sales taxes.

Net Income Estimates

After accounting for the above expenses, the average net income for Uber drivers in Kingston typically falls in the CA$12 to CA$20/hour range. Some full-time drivers report taking home about 50-60% of their gross earnings after expenses.

For example:

If a driver grosses CA$1,000/week, their take-home may be around CA$500–$600.
That means a full-time driver (40+ hours/week) can reasonably expect to earn CA$2,000–$2,400/month net, depending on cost management and strategy.

Peak Hours & High-Demand Events

Like most cities, Kingston has specific times where ride demand surges. Identifying and working during these windows can significantly boost earnings.

Typical Peak Hours:

Weekday mornings (7 AM – 9 AM): Commuters and students heading to work or school.
Evenings (5 PM – 8 PM): Rush hour, social outings.
Weekend nights (8 PM – 2 AM): Nightlife, bar-hopping, and downtown traffic.

Seasonal & Event-Based Surges:

Queen’s University events: Homecoming, Frosh Week, and graduation.
Tourist season: Summer months attract visitors to Kingston’s waterfront and historic sites.
Festivals: Buskers Rendezvous, Limestone City Blues Festival, and other city-sponsored events increase local traffic.

Working during these periods often means benefiting from surge pricing, which can double or even triple base fares.

Tips to Maximize Uber Earnings in Kingston

Drive Strategically: Focus on high-demand zones like downtown, Queen’s University, and the Kingston General Hospital area.
Leverage Uber Promotions: Keep an eye out for trip bonuses and guaranteed hourly earnings during special campaigns.
Use a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle: Hybrid or electric cars dramatically reduce fuel costs, increasing your net income.
Track Expenses Meticulously: Use apps or spreadsheets to record all mileage, maintenance, and receipts for tax deductions.
Keep a High Rating: Drivers with better ratings tend to get more rides and better tips.
Join Multiple Platforms: Consider signing up for other delivery or ride-sharing apps like Lyft, DoorDash, or SkipTheDishes to supplement income.

The Pros and Cons of Driving for Uber in Kingston

Pros:

Flexible Schedule: You control when and how long you work.
Decent Hourly Pay: Can exceed minimum wage, especially during peak times.
Cash Flow: Get paid weekly or opt for instant payout.
Variety: No two days are the same—meet new people and explore the city.

Cons:

Vehicle Costs: High mileage can accelerate maintenance and depreciation.
Unpredictable Demand: Some days may be slow with minimal rides.
No Benefits: No health coverage, vacation pay, or job security.
Self-Employment Taxes: You must track and remit taxes on your own.

Uber vs. Other Gig Opportunities in Kingston

Driving for Uber isn’t the only way to earn flexibly in Kingston. Other gig options include:

SkipTheDishes / DoorDash: Delivery driving, often during meal hours.
Instacart: Grocery shopping and delivery.
Lyft: While less popular than Uber, it’s worth signing up for both.
TaskRabbit / Handy: Offers for odd jobs and handyman work.

Compared to these alternatives, Uber driving tends to offer higher hourly pay, especially during peak demand. However, food delivery can have lower fuel and maintenance costs.

Final Thoughts: Is Driving for Uber in Kingston Worth It?

Driving for Uber in Kingston can be a rewarding and viable side hustle or even a full-time income source, depending on your availability, efficiency, and expense management. Most drivers can expect to earn around CA$20–27/hour before expenses and CA$12–20/hour net. That said, success requires smart strategy, attention to cost control, and a willingness to adapt to fluctuating demand.

If you’re considering Uber driving in Kingston:

Start part-time to test the waters.
Track your earnings and costs from day one.
Drive during high-demand periods to maximize your income.
Stay informed through local forums and driver communities.

With proper planning, Uber can offer more than just a paycheck—it can provide freedom, autonomy, and the potential for a profitable entrepreneurial venture in one of Ontario’s most historic and vibrant cities.

Are you a current or former Uber driver in Kingston? Share your experience in the comments below—we’d love to hear your insights!

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