The average hourly take (before expenses) is around £15–£20. But that’s just the melody—the real symphony plays during peak hours, events, and holidays. A cabbie working New Year’s Eve in central London can pocket £400 in one night.
Airport runs to Heathrow or Gatwick are the golden geese, especially with suitcases and zero traffic. Drivers call them ‘the lottery tickets’ of their shift.
What about Uber and app competition?
Yes, ride-hailing apps have shaken things up. But London black cabs have a trump card: they can use bus lanes and pick you up anywhere, anytime. No surge pricing surprises, just a steady, legitimate hustle.
Many cabbies now use their own apps too, blending old-school trust with modern tech. They’re adapting, and their earnings are holding steady—because quality always finds a buyer.
How Much Money Taxi Drivers Earn in UK - YouTube