GUESS WHO? What does the average taxi driver look like in 2024?
The taxi and private hire industry continues to be a profession marked by experience, independence, and a striking gender imbalance, according to the latest government data from 2024.
While the core demographics of the industry remain consistent, subtle shifts in age and ethnicity highlight how this traditional sector is slowly evolving.
A Male-Dominated Profession
One of the most enduring characteristics of the taxi and private hire industry is its overwhelming male majority. In 2024, 93.6% of drivers were male, a statistic that has remained steadfast for over a decade. This gender disparity has consistently hovered above 90%, reflecting a profession where men have long dominated the landscape. While efforts to diversify the workforce have been discussed, the numbers suggest that the industry remains firmly in the hands of men, with little change on the horizon.
Age: A Marker of Experience
The average age of a taxi or private hire driver in 2024 was 48 years, a figure that aligns closely with previous years. This statistic highlights the experience-driven nature of the profession, where seasoned drivers often continue working well into their later years.
However, the age profile has subtly shifted over the last decade. There has been a slight decrease in the proportion of younger drivers, with only 22% of the workforce under 40 in 2024. In contrast, those aged 60 or over now make up 18% of drivers, indicating that the industry may be aging, with fewer younger entrants replacing those who retire or leave the profession.
A Diverse Workforce
While the gender and age dynamics remain relatively stable, the ethnic composition of taxi and private hire drivers has seen more noticeable changes. In 2024, the two largest ethnic groups were Asian or Asian British, comprising 42.1% of the workforce, and White, making up 41.5%. This is a significant shift from 2010 when 63% of drivers were White, and only 29% identified as Asian or Asian British. This change reflects broader demographic trends in the UK and points to the growing presence and influence of minority ethnic groups within the industry.
The Rise of Self-Employment
Another defining characteristic of the taxi and private hire industry is the high level of self-employment. In 2024, a staggering 89.1% of drivers were self-employed, a figure that has risen steadily from 76% in 2010. This trend underscores the independent nature of the profession, where many drivers prefer the flexibility and autonomy that comes with being their own boss. However, this rise in self-employment comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of financial stability and access to benefits traditionally associated with full-time employment.
Part-Time Work on the Decline
While the overall number of drivers has remained robust, the proportion of part-time drivers appears to be on the decline. In 2024, 17.2% of drivers were working part-time, a slight decrease compared to previous years.
This could indicate a shift towards more full-time work within the industry, possibly driven by the increasing costs associated with vehicle maintenance, insurance, and licensing. For many drivers, the financial pressures of the job may make part-time work less viable, pushing them towards full-time commitments to sustain their livelihoods.
