Omaha Rideshare Drivers Struggle with Record-High Gas Prices

Rideshare drivers in Omaha are adjusting their habits to cope with the impact of soaring fuel costs on their take-home pay.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 11:38pm

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A photorealistic studio still-life image featuring a car key, a gas pump nozzle, and a stack of dollar bills, conceptually representing the financial challenges faced by rideshare drivers due to record-high gas prices.The rising cost of fuel is squeezing the take-home pay of Omaha's rideshare drivers, forcing them to adapt their strategies to maintain a livable income.Omaha Today

Omaha rideshare drivers for Uber and Lyft are feeling the squeeze of record-high gas prices, which are cutting into their overall earnings. Veteran driver Terrence Tryon has adapted by seeking out cheaper gas stations in nearby Council Bluffs and carefully evaluating fares to maximize his profits, but the rising cost of fuel and city construction have still significantly impacted his take-home pay.

Why it matters

As gas prices continue to climb, the financial burden on rideshare drivers in Omaha and across the country is becoming increasingly unsustainable. This story highlights the challenges these workers face in maintaining a livable income amidst external economic factors beyond their control.

The details

Tryon, who has been driving for Lyft and Uber for 8 years, says gas prices of $3 to $4 per gallon in Omaha are cutting into his overall take-home pay. To save money, he often fills up his tank in the cheaper gas stations across the border in Council Bluffs. Tryon also carefully evaluates fares and navigates around city construction, as time is money in the rideshare business.

  • Gas prices in Omaha have reached record highs of $3 to $4 per gallon in recent months.

The players

Terrence Tryon

An Omaha rideshare driver who has been working for Uber and Lyft for 8 years, including in larger cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

Uber

A popular rideshare company that connects drivers with passengers through a mobile app.

Lyft

Another major rideshare company that operates a similar service to Uber.

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What they’re saying

“During my injury, I think that if I wasn't doing this, I wouldn't, I wouldn't be able to generate any type of funds.”

— Terrence Tryon, Rideshare Driver

“Um, it's always beneficial to drive, regardless of what the gas prices are. The change in gas is outrageous, by the way but it definitely changes how you drive. how you look at some of the fares.”

— Terrence Tryon, Rideshare Driver

“At the beginning of my rides, I normally gas up, so Council Bluffs actually has a little bit cheaper gas. But, um, I do see that gas is cheaper, um, depending on like the area of town that you're in.”

— Terrence Tryon, Rideshare Driver

What’s next

Rideshare companies may need to consider adjusting their pay structures or offering additional incentives to help drivers offset the rising cost of gas, in order to retain a reliable workforce.

The takeaway

This story highlights the financial strain that record-high gas prices are placing on gig economy workers like rideshare drivers, who must absorb these increased costs out of their own earnings. As the cost of living continues to rise, the sustainability of the rideshare model is being called into question.