George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (IAH) to City Center
Complete guide for getting from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport to Houston city center. Find out about taxi fares, distance, duration, and travel tips.
Airport Details
- Name: George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport
- IATA Code: IAH
- Location: Houston, US
- Elevation: 97 ft
Taxi from George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport to City Center
Taxis from IAH to Houston city center use zone fares. Expect about $58 to downtown Houston. Prices may vary to spots like Medical Center at $66 or Galleria at $71. Check zone maps near pickup areas.
A $2.75 departure fee applies. Add $1 for late-night rides from 8pm to 6am. Seniors get 10% off. No flat rate to city center, but some services offer fixed prices.
Gratuity is extra. Travel time to downtown is 25-40 minutes based on traffic. Always confirm fare before starting.
Taxi Tips & Safety
Find official taxis at designated zones outside each terminal on the arrivals level. Follow signs to taxi stands. Avoid anyone offering rides inside the terminal.
Use the queue at official stands to prevent scams. Insist on zone fares shown on maps. Licensed taxis take cash or credit cards.
Stay safe by booking ahead if needed. Track flight delays with pre-booked services. Keep belongings close and note driver details.
Alternative Transport
METRO Bus 102 costs $1.25 to downtown. It takes 45-90 minutes every 20-30 minutes. Good for budget travel but slower with transfers.
New 500 IAH Downtown Direct bus is $4.50 one-way. Runs every 30 minutes from 5:30am to 8pm to Convention Center. Non-stop and direct.
Shuttles or ride shares like Uber cost $40-50 to downtown. Faster at 25-40 minutes. Split costs for groups to save over taxis.
Tips for Airport Transfers
- Look for official taxi ranks to avoid scams.
- Check if there is a flat rate to the city center.
- Consider booking a private transfer in advance for peace of mind.
- Have the address of your destination written down in the local language.