Taking a taxi in Los Angeles in 2025–2026 remains a reliable way to travel across this vast and busy city. Whether you’re heading to LAX, downtown, or the beach, taxi fares depend on distance, traffic, and location. On average, taxi rides in Los Angeles cost $3.50 for the base fare plus $3.10 per mile, with waiting charges around $35 per hour. While ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft compete closely, taxis still serve as a convenient, regulated, and dependable option, especially for airport and late-night rides.
Taxi rides in Los Angeles cost $3.50 base fare and $3.10 per mile in 2025–2026. Learn about fares, airport taxi costs, neighborhood rates, and tips to save on LA cabs.
Average Taxi Fare in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Taxi fares in Los Angeles are regulated by the City of Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT). Prices vary slightly depending on route length, traffic conditions, and time of day.
• Base fare: $3.50 for the first 1/9 mile.
• Per-mile rate: $3.10 for each additional mile.
• Waiting time: $0.35 per minute ($21 per hour).
• Typical 5-mile ride: $18–$22 in normal traffic.
• Rush hour fares: $22–$28 due to slower traffic flow.
• Night surcharge: Usually not applicable in regulated taxis.
Taxi Fare from LAX Airport [2025–2026]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a major hub, and taxi rides from here are standardized by zone-based pricing. Rates depend on destination distance and travel time.
• LAX to Downtown LA: $55–$70, around 40–50 minutes.
• LAX to Hollywood: $50–$60, roughly 35 minutes.
• LAX to Santa Monica: $35–$45, 25–30 minutes.
• LAX to Beverly Hills: $45–$55, about 30 minutes.
• LAX to Pasadena: $75–$90, approximately 50 minutes.
• Tip: Always use official LAX taxi pickup zones at the “LAX-it” lot for licensed cabs.
Taxi Cost by Los Angeles Neighborhood [2025–2026]
Taxi prices vary across neighborhoods based on distance and traffic patterns. Below are the typical fares for popular destinations from downtown Los Angeles.
• Downtown to Hollywood: $18–$25; 20–25 minutes.
• Downtown to Beverly Hills: $30–$38; 30–35 minutes.
• Downtown to Santa Monica: $45–$55; 40–50 minutes.
• Downtown to Long Beach: $65–$80; around 45 minutes.
• Downtown to Glendale or Pasadena: $25–$35; 25–30 minutes.
• Downtown to LAX: $55–$70; about 45 minutes in moderate traffic.
Minimum Fares and Extra Charges [2025–2026]
Certain additional fees may apply depending on the service and location. Always verify with the driver or check the taxi meter display before the ride begins.
• Minimum fare: $8.00 (including base fee and short distance).
• LAX airport surcharge: $4.00 added automatically.
• Additional passenger: No extra charge for up to four passengers.
• Baggage fee: Free for regular luggage.
• Tolls: Rare within city limits but added if applicable.
• Gratuity: 10–15% is customary for good service.
Taxi Fare Comparison: Downtown, Beach & Valley Areas [2025–2026]
Each area of Los Angeles offers slightly different travel patterns and average fare totals.
• Downtown LA: Shorter trips (1–3 miles) average $10–$15, mostly around the financial and entertainment districts.
• Westside & Beaches: Trips from Santa Monica to Venice or Marina del Rey cost $12–$18, while longer routes to LAX cost $35–$40.
• San Fernando Valley: Taxi fares from Van Nuys to Hollywood cost $35–$45, while to Downtown LA can reach $50+.
• South LA: Local rides average $10–$20; trips to LAX cost around $30.
• Pasadena & Glendale: Local fares range $10–$15; to Downtown around $25–$35.
Ride-Hailing vs. Taxi Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
While Uber and Lyft dominate the rideshare market, taxis remain competitive, especially for fixed routes and regulated pricing.
• Short trips (2–4 miles): Taxis are often cheaper ($12–$16) than Uber during surge pricing.
• Airport rides: Taxis offer predictable flat rates, while Uber can surge to $70–$90.
• Late-night rides: Taxis are more reliable since they operate 24/7 without dynamic pricing.
• Traffic-heavy hours: Uber/Lyft may cost 25–40% more during congestion.
• Best option: For airport and regulated routes, taxis; for long off-peak rides, Uber/Lyft.
Taxi App and Booking Options in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Los Angeles offers several convenient taxi booking apps in addition to traditional street hailing.
• Yellow Cab of Los Angeles: Reliable, city-approved operator with app booking.
• LA City Cab: Offers flat-rate options for airport transfers.
• United Taxi LA: Serves most metro areas with quick response time.
• CURB App: Book licensed taxis through a user-friendly app interface.
• Taxi Live GPS: Allows real-time tracking of available taxis nearby.
• Tip: Always confirm the driver’s license and taxi permit number before boarding.
Taxi Fares to Major Attractions [2025–2026]
Visiting Los Angeles landmarks by taxi offers comfort and convenience without parking hassles. Below are average fare estimates from Downtown LA.
• To Universal Studios Hollywood: $25–$30; 20 minutes.
• To Griffith Observatory: $18–$25; 20 minutes.
• To The Getty Center: $35–$45; 30 minutes.
• To Santa Monica Pier: $45–$55; 40 minutes.
• To Dodger Stadium: $10–$15; 10 minutes.
• To Los Angeles Zoo: $20–$25; 15 minutes.
How to Save on Taxi Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Taxis can get expensive over long distances, but a few smart strategies can reduce your fare significantly.
• Use taxi apps with fare estimators before booking.
• Share rides when possible — many LA cabs allow multi-stop routes.
• Choose fixed-rate airport rides for LAX and Burbank Airport.
• Avoid peak hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM) to prevent higher wait charges.
• Take advantage of hotel partnerships offering 10–15% discounts on cab rides.
• Always ask for a receipt to track expenses and avoid overcharges.
Summary of Taxi Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
| Category | Average Fare | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Fare | $3.50 | First 1/9 mile |
| Per Mile | $3.10 | Standard LA rate |
| Waiting Time | $0.35/minute | Traffic or stop time |
| Downtown to LAX | $55–$70 | 45–50 minutes |
| LAX to Santa Monica | $35–$45 | 25–30 minutes |
| Minimum Fare | $8.00 | Includes base charge |
| Hourly Rate | $35–$40 | Ideal for hourly rentals |
FAQ: Taxi Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. How much does a taxi cost per mile in Los Angeles?
The average cost is $3.10 per mile plus a $3.50 base fare.
Q2. What is the average taxi fare from LAX to Downtown LA?
Expect to pay around $55–$70 depending on traffic and time of day.
Q3. Are there surcharges for airport trips?
Yes, a $4 airport fee is added automatically to the total fare.
Q4. Do taxis charge extra for luggage or passengers?
No, regular luggage and up to four passengers are included in the fare.
Q5. Is it cheaper to use Uber or a taxi in Los Angeles?
Taxis are usually cheaper for short or airport rides, while Uber may be cheaper off-peak.
Q6. Can I pre-book a taxi in Los Angeles?
Yes, you can pre-book through apps like CURB, Yellow Cab, or United Taxi LA.
Q7. Do Los Angeles taxis operate 24/7?
Yes, all licensed LA taxis run 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.