Estimate Taxi Fares in San Francisco
Use our San Francisco taxi fare calculator to get quick price estimates for rides in San Francisco, United States. Plan your trip with confidence and avoid surprises at the meter.
Fare Estimator
San Francisco Taxi Fares Explained
Taxi fares in San Francisco start with a flag drop fee around four dollars, covering the initial portion of the ride. After that, passengers pay about 60 to 65 cents for each fifth of a mile traveled or for every minute the cab is waiting in traffic.
If you take a taxi from San Francisco Airport to downtown, the average fare is approximately $55. Besides the base and distance fees, rides may include surcharges, such as fuel fees between one and three dollars depending on the distance.
Since 2011, taxi meter rates have seen gradual increases reflecting inflation, wage changes, and costs such as gas prices. Current proposals suggest a flag drop fee of up to $4.20 and incremental charges for distance and waiting time around 60-65 cents per unit.
The taxi fare calculation balances time and distance. For example, a ten-minute, two-mile ride might include a $4 flag drop plus about $6 more in distance and waiting fees, totaling roughly $10 to $11 before tips or extras.
About Taxis in San Francisco 🚕
To get a taxi in San Francisco, look for official taxi stands or use apps and phone calls to book rides. Most taxis are yellow or white, marked with a medallion to show they are licensed and safe.
You can pay taxis with cash or credit cards; many cabs also accept mobile payments. Having exact change or a card ready helps speed up the process when you finish your ride.
Taxis in San Francisco are available day and night but can be busy during peak hours. Airport taxi stands and major hotels always have taxis waiting to serve passengers.
Safety tips include checking the taxi's medallion and driver ID, keeping belongings secure, and sharing your trip details with someone you trust before you travel.
Main taxi companies in San Francisco include Yellow Cab and Luxor Cab. These companies have regulated drivers who must follow city rules and maintain vehicle safety and cleanliness.
San Francisco taxis coexist with ride-share services, offering reliable transport especially for people who prefer traditional cabs or need quick airport rides during busy times.
Tips for Taxi Riders
- Always check if the meter is running before your ride starts.
- Carry small change in the local currency for convenience.
- Be aware of possible surcharges like night rides or airport fees.
- If traveling with friends, split the cost to save money.