Auto Rickshaw Driver Income in Mumbai: What They Really Earn

When you hop into an auto rickshaw, a three-wheeled motor vehicle commonly used for short-distance transport in Indian cities. Also known as a tuk-tuk, it’s one of the most visible parts of Mumbai’s urban fabric. But behind the wheel is a driver working long hours—often 12 to 16 a day—trying to make ends meet. So how much do they actually take home? The answer isn’t what most people assume.

Auto rickshaw driver income, the net earnings a driver keeps after paying fuel, maintenance, and rent. Also known as net daily take-home, it varies wildly based on shift, location, and whether they own the vehicle or rent it. Drivers who own their rickshaws can earn between ₹800 and ₹1,500 a day after expenses. Those renting the vehicle—by far the majority—pay ₹300 to ₹600 just to use it, leaving them with ₹500 to ₹900. That’s before food, transport to the depot, or emergencies. Fuel alone eats up ₹200–₹350 daily, depending on gas prices and traffic.

Location matters. Drivers near railway stations, hospitals, or tourist spots like Marine Drive or Bandra make more because fares are higher and rides are frequent. But they also face more competition and police checks. A driver in a quiet suburb might get fewer rides but spend less time idling. Then there’s the monsoon—when traffic slows and riders vanish, income drops by 30–40%. Most drivers don’t get paid on holidays or sick days. There’s no safety net.

Fare rates, the official metered pricing set by Mumbai’s transport authorities for auto rickshaws. Also known as meter fare structure, they haven’t kept up with inflation since 2020. The base fare is ₹25 for the first 1.5 km, then ₹14 per km. But drivers rarely rely on the meter. Many negotiate flat rates, especially for longer trips or late-night rides. A trip from Andheri to Churchgate might cost a passenger ₹400, but the driver might only keep ₹250 after sharing with the owner or paying for fuel.

Some drivers work two shifts—morning and night—to stretch their income. Others pick up side gigs: delivering small packages, helping with grocery runs, or even driving for app-based services that now allow auto rickshaws. A few lucky ones have a regular customer base that pays them weekly. But most live paycheck to paycheck, with no health insurance, no paid leave, and no retirement plan.

What you see as a quick ride is someone’s livelihood. The auto rickshaw driver income you hear about online—₹15,000 to ₹25,000 a month—isn’t the norm. That’s the top 10%, usually owners with high-demand routes. For most, it’s closer to ₹12,000–₹18,000 a month, after everything’s paid. And that’s before family expenses, school fees, or medical bills.

Below, you’ll find real breakdowns from drivers across Mumbai—what they earn, what they spend, and how they survive. No fluff. Just what they tell us when no one’s listening.