Online grocery delivery is now essential — record 42 million users

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Youdle) – You're one of millions who now expect grocery delivery as a standard shopping option, not a luxury. DoorDash reported a record 42 million monthly active users on its platform, according to reporting from Astute Analytica. Instacart maintained a massive base of 14.4 million active customers throughout 2024 who purchase frequently.

What started as a convenience during the pandemic has become your default way to shop. The numbers are staggering — online grocery is now mainstream, and the infrastructure behind it has become sophisticated enough that you can reliably order fresh items and expect them to arrive cold and safe.

Online grocery has shifted from "nice to have" to "essential utility." This means you have options — real competition between delivery platforms, better service standards, and potentially better prices as these services compete for your business. Your ability to compare stores instantly and have groceries delivered same-day has fundamentally changed how you budget and plan meals. The winner isn't just one platform — it's you, with real leverage to negotiate better service and pricing.

Use Youdle Search to compare delivery fees and cart totals across services in real time. The Youdle Community shares which services are fastest in your neighborhood. Don't stick with one platform out of habit — switching between apps for different stores can save you $50+ per month on fees and markups.