Another large cost not included in other replies is growth in new markets. Not only new staff etc, but when they enter a city they subsidize rides a ton. Just

Another large cost not included in other replies is growth in new markets. Not only new staff etc, but when they enter a city they subsidize rides a ton. Just think when one person signs up and gets $5 off first ride, they still have to pay the driver the regular rate. Plus, people use sign up codes, which gives both people $5 off their next ride. Again, they still need to pay both drivers their regular rate.