In the past, Khosrowshahi has attributed soaring prices to a shortage of drivers during the COVID-19 pandemic, though Uber reached a record-high 5 million drivers in August 2022 ? up 31% from the year prior, the company noted in its Q2 2022 earnings report.

The question of Uber’s affordability in 2026 is a subject of intense debate between consumer perception and corporate strategy. While many users feel that prices have skyrocketed compared to the "subsidized" rates of the 2010s, Uber’s 2026 financial reports indicate a deliberate push toward affordability to boost trip volume. In early 2026, Uber lowered its profit forecasts specifically because it invested heavily in "low-cost mobility products" like shared rides to win back budget-conscious travelers. However, "too expensive" remains the sentiment for many due to surge pricing and the hidden costs of insurance and fuel that are passed on to the rider. Market research shows that cost control is now the #1 priority for corporate travel managers, with over 50% reporting decreased budgets. While Uber is technically offering more "cheaper" options, the base cost of a standard UberX in major cities remains significantly higher than pre-2020 levels, leading many to perceive the service as a luxury rather than a daily utility.