Taxis in Chicago: A Complete Visitor Guide
Chicago has one of the largest licensed taxi fleets in the United States, and despite rideshare competition the iconic Chicago cab is still a fixture downtown. Visitors find taxis lined up at Union Station, Millennium Park, the major hotels, and both airports. Rates are set by the city, so a Chicago taxi gives you a predictable price for a known route - useful when an Uber surge sends rideshare prices through the roof on game nights and during the winter storms the city is famous for.
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Fare structure
Chicago taxi fares are set by the city's Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection. The meter starts with a flag-drop, then ticks by distance segments and by waiting time. Additional passenger fees apply for each rider beyond the first, and there is a small fuel surcharge that the city adjusts based on gas prices. Tolls on the Skyway or to the airports are passed on to the passenger.
Quick fare estimator for Chicago. Enter your trip distance and approximate travel time. The result is a rough range based on typical meter rates - confirm with the driver or operator before you travel.
Airport transfers
Most visitors meet the Chicago taxi trade at the airport. Here is what to expect on the typical airport-to-city run:
| Airport | Distance | Time | Approx fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| O'Hare International (ORD) | 18 mi | 40 min | $45-55 metered to the Loop |
| Midway International (MDW) | 11 mi | 25 min | $30-40 metered to the Loop |
Tips for the airport run
- The Loop, River North, and Streeterville have plenty of taxis cruising for fares - hailing on the street is fast.
- Both airports have well-organised taxi queues; ignore drivers approaching you in baggage claim.
- An additional passenger surcharge applies for each extra rider, and a small charge for each piece of luggage in the trunk.
- Standard tip is 15 to 20 percent.
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Booking and hailing
Below are the main licensed operators and apps used in Chicago. Booking through one of these is the safest option, and ensures the driver is properly insured and licensed:
- Yellow Cab Chicago
- Flash Cab
- Checker Cab
- American United Cab
- Curb app
Tipping in Chicago
Tipping norms vary between countries. In Chicago, a tip of 15 to 20 percent of the metered fare is customary - in line with US conventions. Tips on card readers usually offer quick-select buttons.
Common scams to watch for
Most licensed drivers in Chicago are honest, but the same handful of scams appear in every major city. Knowing them keeps you out of trouble:
- Drivers taking I-90 the long way from O'Hare during rush hour when the Kennedy is the faster route - check on maps.
- Refusing to take you to the South Side - this is illegal and you can report the medallion number to the city.
- Skipping the meter and offering a flat fare for a short trip - always ask for the meter to be started.
Getting to the main attractions
The most common taxi routes in Chicago go to and from the main visitor sights: Willis Tower, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Wrigley Field, the Art Institute, Magnificent Mile. Distances within the central district are short and most fares run under $20 if there is no traffic - but bear in mind that journeys taking a long time in heavy traffic will rack up extra cost on the time-based portion of the meter.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from O'Hare to downtown Chicago?
Expect $45 to $55 on the meter from O'Hare to the Loop, plus a tip. Tolls are extra if the driver takes the Skyway. Total around $55 to $65 with tip.
Is there a flat fare from O'Hare to the Loop?
Chicago does not run a city-wide flat fare scheme between O'Hare and downtown. A shared-ride taxi option does exist with a flat per-person rate from the airport.
Are Chicago taxis open 24 hours?
Yes, taxis run around the clock, with phone dispatch and app booking through Curb available overnight.
Can I pay cash in a Chicago taxi?
Yes, and you can also pay by card. Drivers must accept both.
Are taxis safe in Chicago?
Licensed Chicago cabs are safe. Confirm the medallion number on the side of the car and avoid unlicensed cars that approach you at airports or train stations.
How do I report a problem with a Chicago taxi driver?
You can file a complaint with the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, quoting the medallion number printed on the side of the cab.
Local taxi companies
The Chicago taxi trade is made up of dozens of licensed firms in addition to the major names listed above. If you operate a licensed taxi or private hire company in Chicago and would like to be listed in this section, you can submit your business for inclusion.
A note on accuracy: Taxi rates change. The figures above are intended as rough guides only. Always confirm the meter rate or flat fare with your driver before setting off, and refer to the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection for the official tariff.