Unveiling Inequalities in the gig Economy: Analyzing driver earnings in Toronto’s ridehailing industry

This study examines the net earnings of transportation network company (TNC) drivers in Toronto, using a comprehensive dataset of 84 million TNC trips conducted between January 2023 and April 2024. By integrating trip data with vehicle-specific information, the analysis offers a comprehensive view of driver earnings both before and after expenses. Findings reveal that in 2023, median gross earnings per engaged hour were $33.52, but net earnings dropped to $15.31 after deducting expenses, leaving 57% of drivers earning less than the provincial minimum wage of $16.55. When all in-app time is considered, net earnings declined further, with median earnings of $7.94 per in-app hour in 2023 and $5.97 in 2024, resulting in over 95% of drivers earning below minimum wage. These findings highlight systemic issues in the TNC industry, including prolonged unpaid waiting periods for ride assignments and significant variability in operating costs. We explore policy solutions such as utilization rate targets and minimum pay standards, alongside improvements to the data collection process, to better ensure fair wages for TNC drivers. By uncovering the prevailing wage conditions in the TNC industry, this research underscores the urgent need for proactive regulatory measures to enhance working conditions for TNC drivers in Toronto.