Taxis in San Francisco: A Complete Visitor Guide
San Francisco is the birthplace of rideshare, and it shows - the licensed cab fleet has shrunk significantly in recent years. Still, taxis remain a useful option for travellers who want a regulated meter, especially during surge pricing and at SFO airport, where the official taxi queue is fast and the fares are set. Cabs are easy to find at the major hotels, Union Square, the ferry terminals and at SFO.
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Fare structure
San Francisco taxi meters are set by the city's Municipal Transportation Agency. The drop covers the first fifth of a mile, then the meter increments by short distance segments and by waiting time. Fees apply for pickups at SFO and on some long trips outside the city.
Quick fare estimator for San Francisco. 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 San Francisco taxi trade at the airport. Here is what to expect on the typical airport-to-city run:
| Airport | Distance | Time | Approx fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco International (SFO) | 13 mi | 25 min | $55-65 metered to downtown SF |
| Oakland International (OAK) | 18 mi | 30 min | $70-90 metered (Bay Bridge toll extra) |
| San Jose International (SJC) | 45 mi | 55 min | $130-160 metered, often cheaper by rideshare |
Tips for the airport run
- The Flywheel app pairs you with a licensed SF cab if you want regulated service from a phone.
- SFO has a flat-rate option to some destinations, but most trips run on the meter.
- Cable cars and Muni are often faster than taxis in the very steep hilly districts.
- Tip 15 to 20 percent.
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Booking and hailing
Below are the main licensed operators and apps used in San Francisco. Booking through one of these is the safest option, and ensures the driver is properly insured and licensed:
- Yellow Cab SF
- Luxor Cab
- DeSoto Cab
- Flywheel app
Tipping in San Francisco
Tipping norms vary between countries. In San Francisco, 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 San Francisco are honest, but the same handful of scams appear in every major city. Knowing them keeps you out of trouble:
- Drivers asking for a flat fare to bypass the meter on a route they know.
- Refusing short trips - this is against the city rules; report the medallion number.
- Adding 'bridge tolls' on a trip that does not cross any bridges.
Getting to the main attractions
The most common taxi routes in San Francisco go to and from the main visitor sights: the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz ferry, Union Square, Lombard Street, the Painted Ladies. 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 SFO to downtown San Francisco?
$55 to $65 on the meter, plus airport pickup fee and tip. Total around $65 to $75.
Are there still yellow cabs in San Francisco?
Yes, though the fleet has shrunk. Yellow Cab, Luxor and DeSoto all still operate, and you can book through Flywheel.
Is BART cheaper than a taxi from SFO?
Far cheaper - BART is around $10 one-way from SFO to downtown and takes about 30 minutes.
Can I get a taxi to take me across the Golden Gate Bridge?
Yes. The toll is paid by FasTrak in the inbound direction only, and is passed on to the passenger.
Are SF taxis safe?
Licensed taxis are safe. Use the taxi stand at SFO and major hotels rather than accepting rides from people who approach you.
Do San Francisco taxis take credit cards?
Yes, every licensed cab accepts cards.
Local taxi companies
The San Francisco 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 San Francisco 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 San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) for the official tariff.