How to Make $500 a Week with DoorDash

Ever wondered how to make $500 a week with DoorDash? You’re not alone, not even close. The promise of flexible hours and quick cash has turned doordashing into a side hustle obsession. But can you really hit that magic $500 mark each week? Absolutely … if you really know the ins and outs of how to make money on DoorDash. 

That’s where we’ve got your back: From time-tested DoorDash tips and tricks to strategies that help you make more money on DoorDash, we’ll show you how to turn red bags into green stacks.

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What is DoorDash?

DoorDash is the largest food delivery service in the U.S., holding about 67% of U.S. meal delivery sales according to Bloomberg Second Measure. The app connects customers with restaurants, convenience stores, and grocery chains while Dashers (delivery drivers) pick up and drop off the orders.

To get started, you’ll need to:

• Sign up on the DoorDash website or app.
• Pass a background check.
• Have a car, scooter, or bike (varies by city).
• Download the Dasher app to accept orders.

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What does DoorDash pay?

DoorDash pays Dashers per delivery, with earnings made up of:

• Base pay: $2–$10 depending on time, distance, and desirability of the order.
• Promotions: Peak Pay (extra earnings during busy times) and Challenges.
• Tips: Customers add them in-app or in cash.

According to Gridwise data, U.S. Dashers average around $19 per hour before expenses like gas, mileage, and insurance. Payments are made weekly via direct deposit, or instantly through Fast Pay (for $1.99 per transfer).

Can you make $500 a week with DoorDash?

For sure. Let’s break it downAt $20/hour, you’d need about 25 hours per week (roughly 3-4 hours a day). At $15/hour, you’d need 33–34 hours per week.

In other words, $500 a week is doable whether you DoorDash part-time or make it your full hustle. One of the best ways to make money on DoorDash is to combine smart scheduling with the strategies below.

14 tips and strategies on how to make $500 a week with DoorDash

Here are the DoorDashing tips that separate the casual drivers from the ones who know how to make more money on DoorDash.

1. Take advantage of guaranteed earning incentives

DoorDash sometimes offers “Guaranteed Earnings” for new Dashers, ensuring you make a minimum amount in your first few weeks. Always check the app or your email for offers.

2. Try the new earn-by-time mode

Instead of being paid per order, you can opt for hourly earnings in select markets with the Earn by Time Mode. This can guarantee steady income during slow times and is one of the best ways to DoorDash if you hate waiting.

3. Stay informed about any promotions or bonuses

Peak Pay bonuses (extra $1–$4 per delivery during busy hours) can quickly stack up. Track upcoming promos in the Dasher app to maximize your route.

4. Consider multi-apping

Pair DoorDash with Uber Eats, Instacart, or Walmart Spark. Multi-apping ensures you’re not stuck waiting for orders, boosting how to make money DoorDashing and beyond.

5. Find the most popular restaurants and hotspots

Hang near fast-food chains or busy shopping centers. Hotspots (marked in the app) often guarantee shorter wait times and steady orders.

6. Accept group orders

Group orders often pay higher because they save the restaurant and DoorDash money. Multiple meals = bigger tips.

7. Work during peak hours and on weekends

Lunch (11am–2pm), dinner (430pm–8pm), and weekends are when customers order the most. That’s when you’ll make good money on DoorDash.

8. Be selective with the orders you accept

Decline low-paying long-distance orders. Use the $1-per-mile rule: only accept jobs that pay at least $1 for every mile driven.

9. Deliver on your way home

If you’re already driving, why not add one or two deliveries? It’s one of the simplest DoorDash tips and tricks to squeeze out extra weekly earnings.

10. Test different markets

Busy downtowns and suburban areas may pay differently. Experiment in different zip codes to figure out where the best way to make money on DoorDash is in your city.

11. Use an electric bike

In high-traffic cities, e-bikes can be faster than cars and cheaper than paying for gas and parking. 

12. Provide exceptional customer service

Fast, polite, and accurate delivery = higher ratings = more tips. Even a small bump in your tip rate adds up over 25+ deliveries a week.

13. Track your income and expenses

Use an app like Stride or Everlance to log mileage and costs. Tracking ensures you know your real profit (and helps with tax deductions). The IRS allows a per-mile deduction, updated each year. 

14. Adopt a businessperson’s mindset

Treat DoorDash like a mini business, not a casual gig. Analyze which orders are profitable, invest in gear (like insulated bags), and strategize your schedule.

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Turn DoorDash into a $500-a-Week Side Hustle

If you’re serious about how to make good money on DoorDash, the playbook is simple: work peak hours, chase bonuses, and use smart DoorDash tips and tricks. One of the best ways to make money on DoorDash is by treating it like a business — not just a side hustle. Stay consistent, use data to guide your routes, and don’t forget to cash in on those mileage deductions.

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