London taxi drivers don’t clock in. They own their own business, basically. They decide when to work—and when to nap.
How Much Do Black Cab Drivers Earn in London? (2026 Salary Guide)
Most work 50 to 60 hours a week. Some do 70. The maniacs? They push 80 hours. But here’s the kicker: they can also take a three-hour lunch if they want.
Weekends are where the real cash flows. A Friday night ride from Soho to Canary Wharf? That’s £30 easily. And the tips? Tourists from Texas love to tip big.
The Hidden Costs (Brace Yourself)
Earning £70,000 sounds great. But drivers bleed money on costs. First, there’s the cab itself—a new one costs £50,000. Yes, more than a Tesla.
Then you’ve got diesel (or electric charging), insurance, and licensing. Plus the dreaded Congestion Charge and ULEZ fees. Those add up to £5,000 a year easy.
So that £70,000 gross? After expenses, it’s more like £35,000 net. Still decent, but not flashy. It’s a solid middle-class living—with a side of backache.
