Los Angeles is one of the best cities for rideshare and delivery drivers, thanks to its high demand for transportation and food delivery services. However, maximizing your earnings depends on knowing where and when to drive. Whether you’re working with Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, or Uber Eats, choosing the right routes can help you secure high-paying trips, avoid traffic, and boost your income.
At LA Elite Rentals, we provide fuel-efficient and reliable rental cars so you can drive more and earn more. But to truly maximize your profits, you need to know the best areas to operate in. Here are the top high-paying routes in Los Angeles for rideshare and delivery drivers.
1. LAX to Downtown LA – The High-Demand Airport Route
Best Time: Early mornings (5 AM – 9 AM) & evenings (6 PM – 11 PM)
Why It Pays Well:
- LAX is one of the busiest airports in the world, meaning consistent ride requests from travelers.
- Many passengers head to Downtown LA, Hollywood, or Beverly Hills, resulting in long, high-fare trips.
Pro Tip: Use the LAX staging lot (TNC lot) to queue for airport pickups and avoid circling the terminals.
2. West Hollywood & Beverly Hills – Premium Ride Zone
Best Time: Nights & weekends (7 PM – 2 AM)
Why It Pays Well:
- High demand for luxury and premium rides, especially for Uber Black and Lyft Lux drivers.
- Busy nightlife scene with clubs, bars, and restaurants = frequent ride requests.
Pro Tip: Stick to areas around Sunset Boulevard, Rodeo Drive, and Melrose Avenue for high-paying rides.
3. Santa Monica & Venice Beach – Tourists & Locals on the Move
Best Time: Midday to sunset (12 PM – 7 PM)
Why It Pays Well:
- Tourists and locals frequently request rides between Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and Third Street Promenade.
- Consistent food delivery orders from restaurants along Main Street, Abbot Kinney Blvd, and Ocean Avenue.
Pro Tip: Avoid Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) traffic by using local streets like Lincoln Blvd and Ocean Park Blvd.
4. Hollywood & Universal City – Nonstop Rides & Deliveries
Best Time: Afternoons & evenings (3 PM – 12 AM)
Why It Pays Well:
- Heavy rideshare demand around Hollywood Blvd, Universal Studios, and Griffith Observatory.
- Frequent delivery orders from tourists and locals staying at hotels and Airbnbs.
Pro Tip: Be strategic about Hollywood Bowl event nights—they bring huge ride demand but heavy traffic.
5. Downtown LA – Business Travelers & Late-Night Rides
Best Time: Weekday mornings & evenings (7 AM – 10 AM & 4 PM – 9 PM)
Why It Pays Well:
- Business professionals request rides between hotels, offices, and Union Station.
- Late-night surge pricing from bars, clubs, and concerts in the Arts District and LA Live.
Pro Tip: Use side streets like Grand Ave, Olive St, and Figueroa St to avoid traffic.
6. USC & UCLA – Student Rides & Food Delivery Hotspots
Best Time: Evenings & weekends (6 PM – 2 AM)
Why It Pays Well:
- Students constantly need rides to downtown, Westwood, and social events.
- High volume of food delivery orders from dorms and off-campus housing.
Pro Tip: Be available for surge pricing after football games, concerts, and big campus events.
Maximize Your Earnings with LA Elite Rentals
Having the right vehicle is just as important as knowing the best routes. At LA Elite Rentals, we offer:
Fuel-Efficient Hybrids & Electric Vehicles – Save money on gas and increase profits.
Unlimited Mileage Plans – No restrictions, so you can drive as much as you need.
Insurance & Maintenance Included – Focus on earning while we handle the rest.
Quick & Easy Approval Process – Get on the road in no time!
Ready to start driving smarter and earning more? Rent your car today with LA Elite Rentals and hit the best routes in LA!
📞 Contact us now to book your rental! 🚗💨
