Want to get paid for something you already do every day? Walking apps turn your daily steps into real money, gift cards, or rewards. Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or just running errands, these apps track your movement and compensate you for staying active.
From experience, walking apps won’t replace your income, but they’re perfect for earning an extra $10–50 monthly with zero effort beyond what you’re already doing. Many users report that combining 3–4 apps maximizes earnings since each counts the same steps differently.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best apps that pay you to walk, how much you can realistically earn, which ones offer cash vs. rewards, and tips to maximize your earnings without changing your routine.
Reality check: Most walking apps pay $0.50–5 per 10,000 steps, or around $15–50 monthly for moderate activity. The real value comes from passive earning—you’re walking anyway, so why not get paid?
How Do Walking Apps Make Money?
You might wonder: why would companies pay me to walk? Here’s how these apps profit:
Advertising revenue: Apps show ads and sponsored content, sharing profits with users
Health data: Anonymized fitness data is valuable to researchers and insurance companies (always read privacy policies)
Sponsorships: Fitness brands and health companies sponsor challenges and rewards
Premium subscriptions: Many apps offer paid tiers with better rewards
Affiliate partnerships: Apps partner with retailers offering cashback and discounts
Understanding the business model helps you choose apps that align with your privacy preferences.
What Makes a Good Walking Reward App?
Before diving into the list, here’s what separates legitimate apps from time-wasters:
- Fair conversion rates: Reasonable steps-to-rewards ratio
- Low minimum payout: Under $10 for cash withdrawals
- Multiple withdrawal options: Cash, PayPal, gift cards
- Accurate tracking: Properly counts steps via phone or wearable
- Privacy protection: Clear data policies
- Legitimate payouts: Proven payment history
- No excessive ads: Doesn’t ruin user experience
15 Best Apps That Pay You to Walk
1. Sweatcoin
What it is: One of the most popular walking apps globally with over 100 million downloads.
How it works: Tracks outdoor and indoor steps via your phone’s GPS and accelerometer. Converts steps to “sweatcoins” you can redeem for products, services, or PayPal cash.
Conversion rate: Approximately 1,000 steps = 0.95 sweatcoins
Payout options: Products from marketplace, PayPal cash (higher redemption rates), donations to charity, premium subscriptions
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by reward (PayPal starts around $5 for 500 sweatcoins)
Average monthly earnings: $5–20 for 8,000–10,000 daily steps
Pros:
- No ads in basic version
- Works worldwide
- Verifies outdoor steps via GPS
- Active marketplace with real products
- Partnership with major brands
- Can earn from friends’ steps (referrals)
Cons:
- Drains battery (uses GPS constantly)
- Doesn’t count all indoor steps
- Conversion rate decreased over time
- Best rewards require many coins
- Premium subscription for better rates
Best for: Active people who walk outdoors regularly
Platform: iOS, Android
2. Achievement (formerly Pact)
What it is: A health rewards app that pays for various fitness activities including walking, running, and logging meals.
How it works: Connect fitness trackers or health apps (Apple Health, Google Fit, Fitbit). Earn points for walking, logging food, taking surveys, and completing health activities.
Conversion rate: 10,000 points = $10 (earn 80 points per day for walking 10,000+ steps)
Payout options: PayPal, direct deposit
Minimum withdrawal: $10 (10,000 points)
Average monthly earnings: $3–8 for consistent activity
Pros:
- Multiple earning methods (not just walking)
- Accepts various fitness tracker data
- Straightforward point system
- Reliable PayPal payments
- No ads
- Privacy-conscious
Cons:
- Slow earnings (takes 3–4 months to reach $10)
- Limited earning potential
- Points accumulate slowly
- No gift card options
Best for: Patient users who want completely passive earning
Platform: iOS, Android
3. Evidation (formerly Achievement Health)
What it is: A health tracking app that rewards you for various healthy behaviors including walking.
How it works: Connect health apps and wearables. Earn points for steps, workouts, sleep tracking, and health surveys.
Conversion rate: 10,000 points = $10 (earn up to 80 points daily)
Payout options: PayPal, gift cards (Amazon, Target, etc.)
Minimum withdrawal: $10
Average monthly earnings: $5–12 for active participation
Pros:
- Multiple health activities count
- Works with 20+ health apps
- Interesting health surveys
- Privacy-focused company
- Consistent point earning
- Gift card variety
Cons:
- Slow point accumulation
- Takes 2–3 months to cash out
- Survey availability varies
- Limited earning ceiling
Best for: Health-conscious users tracking multiple metrics
Platform: iOS, Android
4. Winwalk (Pedometer)
What it is: A straightforward pedometer app that rewards you for walking milestones.
How it works: Automatically tracks daily steps. Earn coins for reaching step milestones (5,000, 10,000, 15,000 steps). Redeem coins for gift cards.
Conversion rate: 1 coin per 100 steps (max 100 coins daily at 10,000 steps)
Payout options: Gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, Target, Starbucks, etc.)
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by card ($5–25)
Average monthly earnings: $10–20 in gift cards for 10,000 daily steps
Pros:
- Simple, clean interface
- No GPS drain (uses pedometer only)
- Wide gift card selection
- Daily scratch cards for bonus coins
- Low battery usage
- No premium subscription needed
Cons:
- No cash option (gift cards only)
- Earning cap at 10,000 steps daily
- Ads between screens
- Gift card values vary
- Takes time to accumulate coins
Best for: Casual walkers who prefer gift cards over cash
Platform: Android (iOS version has different features)
5. StepBet
What it is: A fitness betting app where you wager money on achieving step goals and split the pot with other winners.
How it works: Join step challenges (games) by placing a bet ($10–40). Hit your personalized step goals for 6 weeks. Winners split the pot after StepBet takes a fee.
Conversion rate: Variable (typically 10–20% profit on your bet if you win)
Payout options: PayPal, direct deposit
Minimum withdrawal: Automatic payout after game ends
Average monthly earnings: $5–50 depending on bets and success
Pros:
- Motivating (money on the line)
- Personalized step goals based on your history
- Social accountability
- Can play multiple games simultaneously
- Real profit potential
- Legitimate payouts
Cons:
- Requires upfront payment (not free earning)
- Can lose money if you don’t complete goals
- StepBet takes 15% fee
- Requires serious commitment
- Not passive income
Best for: Motivated individuals wanting accountability and betting excitement
Platform: iOS, Android
Read also: AI Online Jobs in Kenya: Your Complete Guide to Remote AI Work in 2026
6. Charity Miles
What it is: A walking/running app that earns money for charities of your choice.
How it works: Track walking, running, or biking. Corporate sponsors donate $0.25 per mile walked or $0.10 per mile biked to your chosen charity.
Conversion rate: $0.25 per mile walked
Payout options: Direct donation to 40+ charities (not personal income)
Minimum withdrawal: N/A (automatic donations)
Average monthly contribution: $5–15 to charity for moderate activity
Pros:
- Support causes you care about
- No payout minimums
- Multiple charity options
- Track any distance activity
- Simple, ad-free interface
- Feel-good factor
Cons:
- You don’t keep the money (charity only)
- Lower per-mile rate than personal earning apps
- Sponsorship availability varies
- Can’t combine with personal earning
Best for: Altruistic users who want their activity to benefit others
Platform: iOS, Android
7. CashWalk
What it is: A pedometer app offering step-based rewards and lottery entries.
How it works: Track daily steps automatically. Earn step points. Participate in daily raffles and redeem points for gift cards.
Conversion rate: 100 steps = 1 point (max 100 points daily)
Payout options: Gift cards (Amazon, Starbucks, etc.), raffle entries
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by reward (typically 1,000–10,000 points)
Average monthly earnings: $5–15 in gift cards
Pros:
- No GPS needed (battery-friendly)
- Daily raffle opportunities
- Bonus points for consecutive days
- Multiple redemption options
- Clean interface
Cons:
- Point caps limit earnings
- Ads required for bonus points
- No cash payout
- Takes weeks to earn rewards
- Raffle wins not guaranteed
Best for: Users who enjoy gamified rewards and raffles
Platform: iOS, Android
8. Runtopia
What it is: A running and walking app with built-in rewards system and social features.
How it works: Track runs and walks. Complete challenges. Earn sports coins redeemable for products and discounts.
Conversion rate: Variable based on distance, pace, and challenges
Payout options: Sports gear, fitness products, discounts
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by product
Average monthly earnings: $10–30 in products/discounts for active users
Pros:
- Great for runners and serious walkers
- Training plans included
- Audio coaching during runs
- Social community
- Quality sports products
- Regular challenges
Cons:
- No cash payouts
- Best for dedicated runners
- Product selection limited
- Requires consistent activity
- More focused on fitness than earning
Best for: Serious runners wanting gear discounts
Platform: iOS, Android
9. Lifecoin
What it is: A newer walking rewards app with cryptocurrency integration.
How it works: Track steps via phone or wearable. Earn “lifecoins” for steps and activities. Redeem for products, crypto, or gift cards.
Conversion rate: ~1,000 steps = 1 lifecoin
Payout options: Cryptocurrency, gift cards, products
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by reward type
Average monthly earnings: $8–20 for 10,000 daily steps
Pros:
- Cryptocurrency earning option
- Modern interface
- Marketplace with varied products
- Growing community
- No GPS required
Cons:
- Relatively new (less proven)
- Crypto values fluctuate
- Fewer reward options than competitors
- Still building user base
Best for: Crypto enthusiasts wanting alternative rewards
Platform: iOS, Android
10. Miles
What it is: An app that rewards all forms of travel, including walking, with a focus on movement variety.
How it works: Automatically tracks all movement (walking, biking, running, driving, flying, trains). Earn miles for every form of travel. Redeem for rewards.
Conversion rate: Variable by travel mode (walking earns 10x more than driving)
Payout options: Gift cards, merchandise, sweepstakes entries, donations
Minimum withdrawal: Varies (500–50,000 miles depending on reward)
Average monthly earnings: $5–15 for mixed travel
Pros:
- Rewards all movement types
- Automatic tracking (set and forget)
- Interesting reward variety
- Eco-friendly incentives (walking/biking pays more)
- Partnership perks
Cons:
- Heavy battery drain
- Constant location tracking
- Privacy concerns
- Slow point accumulation
- Limited cash options
Best for: People with varied daily transportation
Platform: iOS, Android
11. Fit For Bucks
What it is: A straightforward fitness rewards platform focused on simplicity.
How it works: Connect your fitness tracker. Complete daily step goals. Earn bucks for achievements. Redeem for PayPal or gift cards.
Conversion rate: Variable based on activity and challenges
Payout options: PayPal, gift cards
Minimum withdrawal: $10
Average monthly earnings: $5–10 for consistent activity
Pros:
- Simple interface
- PayPal option available
- Works with multiple trackers
- Clear goals
- Regular challenges
Cons:
- Smaller user base
- Limited reward options
- Slower earning than top apps
- Less polished than competitors
Best for: Users wanting straightforward step tracking rewards
Platform: iOS, Android
12. PK Rewards
What it is: A health and fitness app that gamifies wellness activities including walking.
How it works: Complete health challenges (steps, workouts, meditation). Earn points. Redeem for prizes and sweepstakes entries.
Conversion rate: Points vary by activity type and challenge
Payout options: Sweepstakes entries, prizes, gift cards
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by prize
Average monthly earnings: $5–20 in prizes/entries for active participation
Pros:
- Multiple health activities count
- Motivating challenges
- Prize variety
- Social competition features
- Works with wearables
Cons:
- Rewards mostly sweepstakes (not guaranteed)
- Requires app engagement
- Limited direct cash options
- Prize availability varies
Best for: Competitive users who enjoy challenges and gamification
Platform: iOS, Android
13. Rover (Bounts)
What it is: A location-based rewards app that pays for visiting places while walking.
How it works: Walk to specific locations (stores, parks, landmarks). Check in via app. Earn rewards for visits and steps.
Conversion rate: Variable by location and distance
Payout options: Gift cards, discounts, cashback
Minimum withdrawal: Varies
Average monthly earnings: $10–30 for urban users with accessible locations
Pros:
- Location-based bonus rewards
- Discover new places
- Cashback opportunities
- Works well in cities
- Combines walking with exploration
Cons:
- Location-dependent (urban advantage)
- Battery drain from GPS
- Limited rural availability
- Requires intentional location visits
Best for: Urban walkers who explore their city
Platform: iOS, Android
14. HealthyWage
What it is: A weight loss and fitness betting platform where you can wager on step goals.
How it works: Make a bet on achieving fitness goals (including step challenges). Achieve your goal within the timeframe. Win cash prizes.
Conversion rate: Profit varies based on bet amount, goal difficulty, and timeframe
Payout options: PayPal, check
Minimum withdrawal: Automatic payout after challenge completion
Average monthly earnings: $50–500+ potential (but requires upfront bet)
Pros:
- Significant earning potential
- Strong motivation (money at stake)
- Calculator shows potential winnings
- Legitimate, established company
- Serious accountability
Cons:
- Requires upfront payment
- You can lose your bet
- Not passive income
- Requires major commitment
- Not suitable for casual walkers
Best for: Dedicated individuals with specific fitness goals
Platform: iOS, Android, Web
15. MapMyFitness (Under Armour)
What it is: A comprehensive fitness tracking app with rewards program from Under Armour.
How it works: Track walks, runs, and workouts. Earn points for activities. Redeem for Under Armour gear and discounts.
Conversion rate: Points based on workout frequency and type
Payout options: Under Armour products, gear discounts
Minimum withdrawal: Varies by product
Average monthly value: $10–40 in discounts for active users
Pros:
- Quality fitness tracking features
- GPS route mapping
- Training plans included
- Under Armour product rewards
- Large community
- Premium features available
Cons:
- Rewards limited to Under Armour products
- No cash payout
- Best for serious fitness enthusiasts
- Premium subscription for best features
Best for: Fitness enthusiasts who buy athletic gear
Platform: iOS, Android
Apps That Pay Cash vs. Gift Cards
Understanding payout types helps you choose the right apps:
Cash payouts (PayPal, direct deposit):
- Achievement
- Evidation
- StepBet
- HealthyWage
- Fit For Bucks
- Sweatcoin (select rewards)
Gift cards only:
- Winwalk
- CashWalk
- MyPoints
- QuickRewards
- Miles
Products/Merchandise:
- Sweatcoin marketplace
- Runtopia
- MapMyFitness
- Lifecoin
Charity donations:
- Charity Miles
Mixed options:
- Evidation (cash + gift cards)
- PK Rewards (prizes + cards)
- Rover (cards + cashback)
Realistic Monthly Earning Expectations
Here’s what you can earn based on daily step count:
5,000 steps daily (low activity):
- Combined monthly: $8–15
- Best apps: Achievement, Evidation, Winwalk
- Time to first payout: 3–4 months
10,000 steps daily (moderate activity):
- Combined monthly: $20–40
- Best apps: Sweatcoin, Winwalk, CashWalk, Achievement
- Time to first payout: 1–2 months
15,000+ steps daily (high activity):
- Combined monthly: $35–60
- Best apps: All major apps combined
- Time to first payout: 3–6 weeks
Key insight: Use 3–5 apps simultaneously since they all track the same steps. Walking 10,000 steps counts on every app you have installed.
How to Maximize Walking App Earnings
1. Use Multiple Apps Simultaneously
Install 3–5 apps so the same steps count multiple times. Your 10,000 daily steps earn across all platforms.
Recommended combination:
- Sweatcoin (cash + products)
- Achievement (cash)
- Winwalk (gift cards)
- CashWalk (gift cards + raffles)
- Miles (mixed rewards)
2. Enable Background Tracking
Allow apps to access location and motion sensors for automatic counting. Set and forget.
3. Connect Fitness Trackers
Link Apple Watch, Fitbit, or other wearables for more accurate tracking and bonus points on some apps.
4. Complete Daily Bonuses
Many apps offer bonus points for:
- Consecutive day streaks
- Watching ads
- Completing surveys
- Sharing achievements
- Referring friends
5. Participate in Challenges
Join step challenges, competitions, and special events for multiplied rewards.
6. Optimize Your Walking Routine
- Park farther away
- Take stairs instead of elevators
- Walking meetings
- Lunch walk breaks
- Evening neighborhood walks
7. Refer Friends
Most apps pay $1–10 per referral. Share your code with fitness-minded friends.
8. Cash Out Regularly
Don’t let points accumulate indefinitely. Withdraw when you hit minimums in case apps change policies.
Common Walking App Mistakes to Avoid
1. Shaking Your Phone to Fake Steps
Apps detect artificial movement patterns. This violates terms and gets you banned with earnings forfeited.
2. Only Using One App
You’re leaving money on the table. The same steps can count on 5+ apps simultaneously.
3. Forgetting to Open Apps
Some apps require periodic opening to sync steps. Check weekly if not using background tracking.
4. Ignoring Battery Optimization
GPS-based apps drain batteries fast. Adjust settings and carry portable chargers for long walks.
5. Not Reading Privacy Policies
Understand what data you’re sharing. Some apps sell anonymized health data to third parties.
6. Expecting Quick Cash
Walking apps are ultra-long-term passive income. Manage expectations.
7. Letting Points Expire
Some apps have expiration policies. Track your balances and redeem before losing rewards.
Privacy and Battery Considerations
Walking apps have tradeoffs:
Privacy concerns:
- Location tracking (always or while using app)
- Health data collection
- Step patterns
- Movement habits
- Anonymous data sales
Protect your privacy:
- Read privacy policies carefully
- Choose apps with strong data protection
- Use “while using app” location permissions when possible
- Opt out of data sharing if available
- Avoid apps with questionable practices
Battery optimization:
- Use pedometer-based apps (no GPS) for better battery life
- Enable battery optimization in phone settings
- Charge during less active periods
- Use power saving modes
- Consider apps with offline tracking
Best battery-friendly options:
- Winwalk (pedometer only)
- CashWalk (pedometer only)
- Achievement (syncs periodically)
Heavy battery users:
- Sweatcoin (constant GPS)
- Miles (tracks all movement)
- Rover (location-based)
Do Walking Apps Actually Work?
Yes, they work, but with important caveats:
✅ Legitimate payments: Major apps like Sweatcoin, Achievement, and Evidation have paid millions to users
✅ Passive earning: After setup, they work automatically
✅ Free to use: No payment required to start
❌ Low earnings: $15–50 monthly for most users
❌ Slow accumulation: Takes months to reach payout thresholds
❌ Battery drain: Some apps significantly impact battery life
❌ Privacy trade-offs: You’re monetizing your health data
Bottom line: Walking apps are legitimate supplementary income for something you’re already doing, but won’t meaningfully change your finances.
Walking Apps Safety Tips
Protect yourself while using walking apps:
Verify legitimacy:
- Check app reviews and ratings
- Research company background
- Look for payment proof from real users
- Avoid apps asking for payment to join
- Start with established apps from this list
Protect personal information:
- Don’t share more data than necessary
- Use separate email for fitness apps
- Review connected app permissions
- Understand data sharing policies
- Opt out of marketing when possible
Physical safety:
- Stay aware while walking (don’t stare at phone)
- Use headphones at safe volume
- Walk in well-lit, populated areas
- Tell someone your walking route
- Carry phone for emergencies
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you really get paid to walk?
Yes, walking apps legitimately pay users through advertising revenue, sponsorships, and health data monetization. Major apps like Sweatcoin, Achievement, and Evidation have paid out millions collectively. However, earnings are modest—typically $15–50 monthly for 10,000 daily steps across multiple apps. It’s supplementary income, not a salary replacement.
Which walking app pays the most?
Sweatcoin typically offers the highest earning potential at $10–25 monthly for active users with 10,000+ daily steps. HealthyWage and StepBet can pay significantly more ($50–500+) but require upfront bets and aren’t pure “walking for free money” apps. For completely passive earning, combine Sweatcoin, Achievement, and Winwalk for $25–45 monthly total.
Do walking apps work if I use a treadmill?
Yes, most modern walking apps count treadmill steps since they use your phone’s accelerometer to detect movement. However, GPS-based apps like Sweatcoin may not count indoor steps accurately. Apps using only pedometer data (Winwalk, CashWalk, Achievement) work perfectly on treadmills. Consider phone placement—holding or in pocket works best.
Can I use multiple walking apps at the same time?
Absolutely, and you should! Using 3–5 apps simultaneously is the best strategy since they all track the same steps independently. Your 10,000 daily steps earn rewards across every app installed. Popular combination: Sweatcoin + Achievement + Winwalk + CashWalk + Miles. This doesn’t violate any terms of service.
Do walking apps drain phone battery?
Yes, especially GPS-based apps like Sweatcoin and Miles that constantly track location. Pedometer-only apps like Winwalk and CashWalk have minimal battery impact. To minimize drain: use battery saver mode, close unnecessary background apps, optimize location settings to “while using,” and carry a portable charger for serious walkers. Battery impact varies by phone model.
Conclusion: Start Earning from Your Steps Today
Walking apps offer genuine passive income for something you’re already doing—moving throughout your day. While you won’t get rich, earning an extra $25–50 monthly requires zero lifestyle changes beyond installing apps.
My recommended starting strategy:
Week 1 – Foundation:
- Install Sweatcoin (highest individual earning potential)
- Add Achievement (cash payouts)
- Download Winwalk (gift cards, low battery use)
Week 2 – Expansion:
4. Install CashWalk (raffles + gift cards)
5. Add Evidation (multiple health activities)
Week 3 – Optimization:
6. Review which apps work best for your routine
7. Set up background tracking on all apps
8. Enable notifications for bonus opportunities
Daily routine:
- Simply carry your phone (or wear fitness tracker)
- Walk normally throughout your day
- Check apps weekly to claim bonuses
- Withdraw monthly when hitting minimums
Monthly realistic earnings (10,000 steps daily):
- Sweatcoin: $10–15
- Achievement: $3–5
- Winwalk: $8–12
- CashWalk: $5–8
- Evidation: $5–8
- Total: $31–48 for walking you’d do anyway
The beauty of walking apps is they’re completely passive after initial setup. You’re literally earning money while commuting, shopping, exercising, or walking your dog.
What’s your daily step count? Which walking apps will you try first?
Bookmark this page for updates as new walking reward apps launch and payment structures change throughout 2026.
