Top 20 Apps Like Instacart– Best Instacart Alternatives in 2025

The rising cost of living has made it tough for many people to manage their monthly expenses. If you’re searching for a flexible way to earn some extra money, apps like Instacart can be a great option to start with.

So, what exactly is Instacart?

Instacart is a popular grocery delivery app that connects customers with shoppers who pick and deliver groceries right to their doors. It’s also known for offering part-time delivery jobs where you can earn money based on your own schedule.

But recently, many users have noticed that Instacart has been changing how its schedule system works. Shoppers are finding it harder to grab delivery orders (also called “batches”). According to a Luisa Zhou report, around 36% of U.S. workers are involved in gig work to earn side income.

If you’re thinking about creating a similar app to Instacart, working with a trusted mobile app development company can help bring your idea to life.

In this blog, we’ll share some of the best Instacart alternatives you can try in 2025—whether you’re looking to make money or build your own delivery app.

Check Out 20 Best Apps Like Instacart for Grocery Delivery in 2025

 

App Name	Type of Platform	Popular Feature	Google Play Rating	Apple Store Rating
Uber Eats	Food Delivery	Live Location Sharing and Pre-Order	4.1/5	4.8/5
Walmart	Online Grocery Shopping	Real-Time Order Tracking	4.3/5	4.8/5
Shipt	On-Demand Online Grocery	Personalized Shopper Experience	4.3/5	4.7/5
DoorDash	Food Delivery & Takeout	Group Orders in a Single Device	4.6/5	4.8/5
Postmates	Food Delivery	Anything Delivery Option	4.3/5	4.8/5
TaskRabbit	Labor & Repair Services	Instant Matching System	4.8/5	4.8/5
Gopuff	Consumer Goods & Food Delivery	Direct Local Fulfillment Delivery	4.3/5	4.8/5
Grubhub	Food Delivery	Perks and Reward Options	4.7/5	4.7/5
Peapod	Online Grocery Shopping	Personalized Shopping Lists	2.9/5	N/A
Dumpling	Online Grocery Shopping	Shop at Multiple Stores	3.8/5	4.9/5
FoodFetched	Food Delivery	Custom Delivery Schedule	2.5/5	3.8/5
Rappi	Food & Pharmacy Delivery	Real-Time Delivery Tracking	3.8/5	4.6/5
ShopHero	Online Grocery Shopping	Hyperlocal Delivery Service	3.8/5	5.0/5
HelloFresh	Meal Kit Delivery	Favorite Section to Save Meals	4.7/5	4.7/5
Mercato	Online Grocery Shopping	Real-Time Inventory Updates	4.8/5	4.8/5
Waiter.com	Food Delivery	Promotions and Discounts	2.4/5	2.1/5
Lyft	Ride-Sharing	In-app Messaging and Safety Features	4.7/5	4.9/5
Vons	Online Grocery Shopping	Digital Coupon System	4.8/5	4.8/5
Meijer	Online Grocery Shopping	Personalized Shopping Experience	3.7/5	4.6/5
Caviar	Food Delivery	Social Networking Space	4.6/5	4.8/5

 

1. Uber Eats

Google Play: 4.1/5 | Apple Store: 4.8/5

Uber Eats is one of the top alternatives to Instacart when it comes to food and grocery delivery. Operating in more than 6,000 cities across 45 countries, it’s a great platform for people who want to earn money with flexible hours. You just need a car, bike, or scooter to get started.

Uber Eats drivers (also called delivery partners) can make up to $12 per hour on average. During peak hours like lunch and dinner time, you could earn even more—up to $20 an hour.

Want to build an app like Uber? Check out our full blog on reasons to build rideshare apps like Uber.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Weekly payments to your bank account	Earnings can change based on location and time
Work whenever you want	No employee benefits—you’re an independent contractor
Easy sign-up process, no special skills needed	You handle your own taxes as a gig worker

2. Walmart Grocery Delivery

Google Play: 4.7/5 | Apple Store: 4.8/5

Walmart’s grocery delivery service is a strong Instacart alternative, especially for those who prefer working with a well-established retail brand. With thousands of stores across the U.S., Walmart offers both delivery and pickup services through its app.

As a Walmart Spark driver (the name for Walmart’s delivery gig workers), you can earn between $13 to $20 per hour depending on your area and how many deliveries you complete.

Customers use the app to order groceries, and drivers pick up and deliver the orders from the local Walmart store—simple, flexible, and fast.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Work with a trusted and popular brand	Limited availability in rural or low-demand areas
Competitive pay with peak bonuses	You need a reliable vehicle to start delivering
Flexible schedule and easy-to-use app	No health or employee benefits offered

3. Shipt

Google Play: 4.3/5 | Apple Store: 4.9/5

Shipt is another top-rated app like Instacart that connects users with personal shoppers who deliver groceries and household items. It’s available in over 5,000 U.S. cities and partners with popular stores like Target, CVS, and Kroger.

As a Shipt shopper, you can earn around $15 to $22 per hour, depending on your location and how quickly you complete orders. The best part? You get to choose your own hours and work as much or as little as you want.

Shipt shoppers also have the chance to get tips from customers, which can boost your overall earnings.

If you’re looking to create an app like Shipt, partnering with a reliable grocery app development company can help you turn your idea into a successful business.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
High earning potential with tips	Must have strong customer service skills
Flexible hours and schedule	Requires a car and some lifting of heavy items
Partners with many major stores	Not available in all states or small towns

4. DoorDash

Google Play: 4.6/5 | Apple Store: 4.8/5

DoorDash is a leading food and grocery delivery app available in over 7,000 cities across the U.S., Canada, and Australia. If you’re planning to create an app like DoorDash, this platform is a great example of how to succeed in the delivery market. It’s also an excellent Instacart alternative for those who want to earn on their own schedule by delivering meals, snacks, groceries, and convenience items.

Dashers (DoorDash delivery workers) typically make between $10 to $25 per hour, depending on location, time of day, and tips. You can deliver by car, scooter, or even a bicycle in some cities.

The app is beginner-friendly and offers real-time updates, so you know exactly where to go and what to pick up.

Also Read: Top 20 Apps Like TikTok – Best TikTok Alternatives.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Work anytime with no minimum hours	Pay can vary based on demand and tips
Can deliver using a car, bike, or scooter	No medical or job benefits included
Simple app with clear delivery instructions	You cover your own gas and expenses

5. Postmates

Google Play: 4.2/5 | Apple Store: 4.7/5

Postmates, now owned by Uber, is a delivery app that lets you earn money by delivering food, groceries, and other goods. It operates in many major cities in the U.S. and works similarly to Instacart and Uber Eats.

As a Postmates driver, you can earn around $11 to $20 per hour, depending on location, delivery time, and tips. You can accept deliveries anytime—day or night—and there’s no need to schedule shifts in advance.

Since Postmates is now part of UberEats, users and drivers benefit from a larger delivery network and more consistent demand.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Flexible work hours with no fixed schedule	May not be available in smaller towns
Get paid weekly or instantly with Instant Pay	Lower earnings during off-peak hours
Deliver more than just food—groceries and more	Must manage your own vehicle and expenses

6. TaskRabbit

Google Play: 4.0/5 | Apple Store: 4.8/5

TaskRabbit is a bit different from typical grocery delivery apps, but it’s still a great alternative to Instacart if you’re looking to earn extra money. Instead of just delivering food or groceries, TaskRabbit connects you with people who need help with all kinds of tasks—like shopping, moving, cleaning, or assembling furniture.

You set your own hourly rate and choose the type of jobs you want to do. Some shoppers on TaskRabbit earn $20 to $35 per hour, especially in high-demand areas.

It’s ideal for people who want more variety in their side hustle and enjoy helping others with everyday tasks.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Wide variety of tasks, not just deliveries	You must apply and pass a background check
Set your own rates and schedule	Earnings depend on your skills and area demand
Good pay for experienced taskers	Platform takes a small service fee from your rate

7. Gopuff

Google Play: 4.4/5 | Apple Store: 4.6/5

Gopuff is a fast-growing delivery app that specializes in snacks, drinks, groceries, and household essentials. Unlike Instacart, Gopuff stores its own inventory in local warehouses, so deliveries are quicker and more efficient.

Drivers for Gopuff, also known as delivery partners, can earn about $13 to $21 per hour. Since items are picked up from central hubs, there’s no need to shop inside busy stores.

This makes Gopuff a simple and reliable way to earn money with less hassle.

Check out our full blog on 10 Apps Like Instagram that you must know about.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Central warehouse pickup, no in-store shopping	Only available in select cities
Consistent hourly pay with tips	Must drive to Gopuff hubs, not store-to-store
Offers late-night delivery jobs	No full-time employee benefits

8. Grubhub

Google Play: 4.1/5 | Apple Store: 4.7/5

Grubhub is one of the oldest food delivery apps in the U.S. and a solid alternative to Instacart. It allows users to order from local restaurants, and drivers (called Grubhub Delivery Partners) can make deliveries using their car or bike.

Grubhub drivers usually earn $12 to $20 per hour, depending on location, time, and tips. The app also offers a scheduling option if you want priority access to more orders.

It’s easy to sign up and start earning quickly.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Flexible delivery hours	Pay varies depending on time and city
Tips are 100% yours	Delivery demand may drop during slow hours
Easy sign-up process	Must manage gas and vehicle costs

9. Peapod

Google Play: 3.7/5 | Apple Store: 4.1/5

Peapod is a grocery delivery service mainly available in the Northeast U.S. It’s one of the first services of its kind and remains a reliable Instacart alternative.

Unlike apps where shoppers go into stores, Peapod picks and packs groceries in its own facilities. This makes delivery routes more organized and timely.

Drivers working with Peapod can earn around $15 to $20 per hour with the possibility of tips.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Streamlined process with pre-packed orders	Limited to select regions in the U.S.
Decent pay with steady demand	App and tech feel outdated compared to others
Routes are planned for efficiency	Fewer job openings in low-demand areas

10. Dumpling

Google Play: 4.3/5 | Apple Store: 4.9/5

Dumpling is a unique delivery platform that gives you more control over your delivery business. Unlike Instacart, where you’re assigned jobs, Dumpling lets shoppers build their own client base and set their own rates.

You can shop at any grocery store the customer prefers and even build long-term customer relationships.

This app is ideal for shoppers who want to treat delivery work like a real business.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Set your own pricing and schedule	Takes time to find regular clients
Build a loyal customer base	Not ideal for quick, one-off gigs
Full control over your delivery business	You handle customer service yourself

11. FoodFetched

Google Play: 4.0/5 | Apple Store: 4.5/5

FoodFetched is a smaller but growing food and grocery delivery app. It works similarly to Postmates and Instacart, allowing drivers to pick up and deliver groceries or restaurant meals in their local area.

Pay depends on location and tips, typically ranging from $10 to $18 per hour.

If you’re looking for something local with less competition from other drivers, FoodFetched is worth exploring.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Good option for small or mid-size cities	Smaller customer base than big apps
Flexible work hours	Limited availability in major cities
Can deliver food and groceries	Fewer delivery requests in slow periods

12. Rappi

Google Play: 4.5/5 | Apple Store: 4.7/5

Rappi is a popular delivery app mainly serving Latin America. It offers grocery, food, and even pharmacy deliveries. Rappi allows delivery workers to earn money with flexible hours while serving many cities.

Rappi drivers typically earn $10 to $18 per hour, plus tips. The app also offers bonuses during busy times.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Covers many delivery types (groceries, food, pharmacy)	Mostly available in Latin America, limited U.S. presence
Flexible work hours	Pay varies by country and demand
Bonus pay during busy hours	Drivers must cover their own expenses

13. ShopHero

Google Play: 4.1/5 | Apple Store: 4.6/5

ShopHero is a smaller grocery delivery app focused on local stores in select U.S. cities. It’s growing fast and is a good alternative for shoppers who want to avoid large crowds and busy stores.

Drivers earn around $12 to $18 per hour, depending on the area and tips.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Focus on local businesses	Limited city coverage
Easier store pickups due to less traffic	Smaller customer base than big players
Flexible scheduling	App still developing features

14. HelloFresh

Google Play: 4.2/5 | Apple Store: 4.8/5

HelloFresh is best known for meal kit delivery, but it also offers grocery delivery services. Delivery drivers help bring fresh ingredients directly to customers’ doors.

Drivers can earn about $14 to $20 per hour, with flexible shifts and a friendly work environment.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Regular work with meal kit deliveries	Requires punctuality and care with deliveries
Good hourly pay	Not available everywhere
Friendly company culture	Less flexible than some gig apps

15. Mercato

Google Play: 4.0/5 | Apple Store: 4.5/5

Mercato is a grocery delivery app that focuses on local, independent grocery stores. It’s perfect if you want to support small businesses while earning money.

Delivery drivers can make $12 to $18 per hour, plus tips, with a flexible schedule.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Supports local grocery stores	Limited to certain regions
Flexible work hours	Fewer deliveries ingr slow periods
Great for shoppers who enjoy small stores	Smaller delivery zones

16. Waiter.com

Google Play: 3.8/5 | Apple Store: 4.3/5

Waiter.com offers delivery services mostly for meals and catering orders, but it also includes grocery deliveries. It serves major U.S. cities and offers steady work for drivers.

Drivers can expect to earn $12 to $20 per hour, with tips adding extra income.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Steady delivery demand	Limited to larger metro areas
Good tip potential	Smaller app user base
Regular payment schedule	Less flexible than gig-only apps

17. Lyft

Google Play: 4.2/5 | Apple Store: 4.7/5

While Lyft is known as a ride-sharing app, it also offers delivery services in some cities. Drivers can deliver groceries, food, and essentials through Lyft’s delivery program.

Lyft delivery drivers earn about $12 to $20 per hour and can work on their own schedule.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Flexible hours	Delivery available only in some areas
Access to ride-share and delivery gigs	Earnings depend on demand and tips
Easy to use app	Costs for vehicle and fuel

18. Vons

Google Play: 4.0/5 | Apple Store: 4.4/5

Vons offers grocery delivery and pickup through its app in the western U.S. As a driver or shopper, you get to work for a trusted supermarket brand.

Earnings range from $13 to $19 per hour, depending on your city and hours worked.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Well-known brand with loyal customers	Limited to Vons’ store areas
Flexible work options	Fewer orders in rural regions
Simple app for deliveries	No employee benefits

19. Meijer

Google Play: 4.2/5 | Apple Store: 4.5/5

Meijer is a large supermarket chain in the Midwest U.S. offering grocery delivery through its app. Drivers can earn competitive pay delivering groceries with flexible hours.

Hourly pay typically ranges from $14 to $20, plus tips.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Strong regional presence	Limited outside Midwest
Good hourly pay with tips	Delivery zones can be large
Flexible schedule	Requires reliable vehicle

20. Caviar

Google Play: 4.0/5 | Apple Store: 4.7/5

Caviar focuses on high-end restaurant delivery in select U.S. cities. It’s a great Instacart alternative if you want to deliver restaurant meals with higher pay rates. In case you’re interested in creating an app, you can check out our recent blog on USA food delivery apps.

Drivers can earn $15 to $25 per hour, depending on location and tips.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Higher pay rates than many apps	Available only in select cities
Focus on quality restaurant orders	Limited grocery options
Easy app interface	No employee benefits

Why Apps Like Instacart Are Gaining So Much Popularity in 2025

The use of delivery apps like Instacart has grown a lot, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. When lockdowns and social distancing were common, many people relied on these apps to shop safely without visiting crowded stores.

Even now, when restrictions have mostly lifted, many shoppers continue to use grocery delivery apps because they offer comfort and ease. According to Statista, reports, the grocery delivery business is expected to grow by over $1347 billion by 2029, showing just how big this trend is.

Here are some key reasons why grocery delivery apps are so popular today:

1. Easy and Quick Shopping

The biggest reason people love grocery delivery apps is convenience. With just a few taps on your phone, you can order everything you need and have it delivered right to your door. This saves you time and effort, avoiding long lines and busy stores — perfect for those with tight schedules or families.

2. Helpful for Everyone

These apps make grocery shopping easier for people who find it hard to go out, like seniors, people with disabilities, or those without transport. Delivery services bring essential items directly to them, making life simpler and safer.

3. Better for the Environment

Many delivery services are trying to be greener by combining many orders into one trip. This means fewer cars on the road and less pollution. Plus, some companies use eco-friendly packaging and support local farms, which helps reduce waste and promotes sustainability.

4. Great Deals and Savings

Grocery delivery apps often offer special discounts, coupons, and loyalty programs to attract customers. Sometimes, the prices are just as good as or better than in physical stores. This mix of savings and convenience makes these apps very attractive to shoppers.

5. Focus on Health

Some apps also help people make healthier food choices by showing nutrition details or offering organic and specialty items. They might even suggest recipes or meal plans based on what you buy, making it easier to eat well.

Smart Ways to Earn Money with Jobs Like Instacart

Jobs like Instacart have become a popular way to make extra income. If you want to earn more from delivery or shopper jobs, here are some smart tips to help you boost your earnings:

1. Pick the Best Delivery Apps

Choose well-known apps that pay fairly and offer bonuses. Popular options like Instacart, Uber Eats, and DoorDash often have special promotions for new drivers or extra pay during busy times.

2. Work When Demand Is High

Timing matters a lot in delivery jobs. Focus on busy periods like lunch, dinner, and weekends when more people order food or groceries. Many apps pay more or offer extra bonuses during these peak hours.

3. Keep Track of Your Costs

To know how much you really earn, track your expenses like gas, car maintenance, and other costs. You can use mileage tracker apps to help manage your money better. Some finance apps like Dave, also help you keep an eye on your spending and even offer small loans if needed.

4. Join Multiple Platforms

Don’t rely on just one app. Signing up for several delivery services like Instacart, DoorDash, and Amazon Flex lets you pick the best paying jobs and work more hours, making it easier to increase your income.

5. Focus on Great Customer Service

Providing friendly and timely service can earn you better tips. Being polite, communicating well, and delivering orders quickly encourages customers to tip more, which adds up to higher overall pay.

Top Questions People Ask About Instacart-Like Apps

Apps like Instacart are getting more and more popular, but many people still have questions about how they work. 

1. What is an app like Instacart?
2. Can I earn money by working on these apps?
3. Do I need a car to work with delivery apps?
4. How much money can I make with Instacart or similar apps?
5. Are there other apps like Instacart?
6. Is it safe to use grocery delivery apps?
7. Do I have to pay to sign up as a delivery driver?
8. Can I use more than one delivery app at the same time?
9. Which delivery app pays the most?
10. How do I get started with apps like Instacart?

Want to Create an App Like Instacart? Start Here

With rising living costs around the world, more people are turning to delivery jobs and side gigs to earn extra income. Apps like Instacart have made it easier than ever to shop and deliver groceries, giving users a flexible way to work and get paid. If you’re thinking about launching a similar app, now is a great time to take action.

Looking for a trusted mobile app development company Austin? MMC Global is here to help you bring your idea to life. Our expert team builds high-quality delivery apps for Android and iOS that are fast, secure, and easy to use. Whether you’re starting small or planning a big launch, MMC Global has the tools and experience to support your success.

Let’s work together to build a powerful shopper app like Instacart that helps people earn and shop smarter.

FAQs About Apps Like Instacart

1. Can I make $300 a week with Instacart?

Yes, it’s possible if you work regularly, choose busy hours, and get good tips. Your location also matters.

2. Can I deliver for Instacart at night?

Yes, but it depends on store hours in your area. Some places have fewer orders at night.

3. How many hours can I work per week?

There’s no limit. You choose your hours as an independent contractor. Some work part-time, others full-time.

4. Which delivery app pays the most?

Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Amazon Flex usually offer better pay, especially with tips and bonuses.

5. Who pays more: Uber Eats or DoorDash?

Both are good. DoorDash has more bonuses, while UberEats is strong in big cities.

6. What are other apps like Instacart?

Popular options include Amazon Fresh, Walmart, Shipt, FreshDirect, Peapod, and Uber Eats.

7. Is Instacart still popular in 2025?

Yes. Instacart is still one of the top grocery delivery apps in the U.S., with millions of users.

8. Can I use more than one delivery app?

Yes, many drivers use multiple apps to get more jobs and earn more.

9. Do I need experience to start?

No experience is needed. You just need a phone, a car or bike, and to pass a background check.

10. Want to build an app like Instacart?

You can partner with experts like MMC Global to bring your app idea to life.