How do you travel by taxi in New York?

Published on 30 January 2024,. Last updated on 23 January 2026, New York Info

New York taxis are instantly recognizable by their striking yellow color. This makes these so-called yellow cabs easy to spot in busy city traffic. Especially if you’re new to the city, you want to get from A to B quickly, safely, and without hassle. A New York taxi is therefore a practical transportation option for many tourists. In this blog post, you’ll read how taxis work in New York, what they cost, and what to keep in mind during your trip.

The history of the taxi in New York

The taxi has played an important role in the New York cityscape for over a century. The first motorized taxis appeared in Manhattan in 1907. These vehicles gradually replaced horse-drawn carriages and provided faster transportation through the growing city.

In the 1930s, taxis were required to be painted yellow. This made them more visible in busy traffic. Since then, the yellow taxi has become a recognizable symbol of New York. To ensure order and safety, the city later established strict regulations for permits and fares.

Today, taxis in New York are overseen by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). This organization determines, among other things, who is allowed to drive, which vehicles are permitted, and the applicable fares. This makes taxi transportation in New York transparent and reliable for residents and tourists.

In addition to the well-known yellow taxis, the city introduced green taxis, also known as Boro Taxis, in 2013. These are intended for the outer boroughs, such as Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. This helped to better distribute taxi service throughout the city.

How do you take a taxi in New York?

You can hail a taxi in several ways. First, you can hail one on the street. If you see a taxi with its roof light on, raise your arm.

You can also use apps like Curb or Arro. These allow you to order an official NYC taxi, similar to rideshare services. Taxis are also often available at busy locations, such as Times Square and large hotels.

How much does a taxi cost in New York?

Taxi fares in New York are set by the city and monitored by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC). Therefore, the same fares apply everywhere for yellow and green taxis.

Standard taxi fares (2026)

1. Starting rate: approximately $3.00 once the meter starts

2. Ride rate: approximately $0.70 per 320 meters or per minute in slow traffic

3. State surcharge: $0.50 per ride

4. Improvement surcharge: $1.00 per ride

Time-based allowances

1. Night surcharge: $1.00 between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM

2. Peak surcharge: $2.50 on weekdays between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM

Additional costs

1. Congestion surcharge: $2.50 for trips that begin, end, or travel in Manhattan below 96th Street.

2. Tolls and bridges: These are always automatically added to the fare.

This means the total fare may vary depending on the time of day, route, and traffic conditions. However, you know in advance that the fares are fair and fixed.

Taxi from the airport to Manhattan

From the airports, some different rules apply:

1. JFK Airport → Manhattan: Flat rate of approximately $70, excluding tolls, surcharges, and tips

2. LaGuardia (LGA): Fare based on the taximeter

3. Newark (EWR): Fare based on the meter, plus any applicable surcharges

Always follow the official taxi signs at the airport to take authorized taxis.

How do you pay for a taxi in New York?

You can pay with cash or credit card in almost every taxi. There’s a screen in the car where you can easily pay. You can also select a tip directly.

After paying, you’ll receive a digital or paper receipt, which is handy for keeping records.

How much do you tip in a taxi in New York?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s customary. Typically, you’ll give 15 to 20 percent of the total fare. When paying by card, you’ll see these options directly on the taxi’s screen, making it easy to choose an appropriate amount.

Can you travel safely by taxi in the evening and at night?

Yes, taxis operate day and night. Especially in the evenings, this is a practical alternative to walking or the subway for many tourists. Taxis are always available in busy areas of Manhattan.

Because official taxis are registered with the TLC, they comply with established safety regulations.

Taxi vs. Uber: Which is cheaper in New York?

This depends on the timing. Taxis operate with fixed fares, while Uber uses dynamic pricing. This can make Uber more expensive during peak hours or bad weather.

For short trips or during rush hour, a taxi is often more economical. Outside of peak hours, Uber can sometimes be cheaper. Therefore, it’s wise to compare both options before booking.

What are green taxis in New York?

Green taxis operate primarily outside Manhattan, such as in Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. They are permitted to pick up passengers there, but also operate within Manhattan.

The fares are the same as those of yellow taxis. The difference lies primarily in the area they operate within.

My experience with the taxi in New York

I’ve been to New York several times and have regularly used taxis. This is especially true when I’m staying in the city for a longer period and have more luggage. I also often take a taxi in New York for longer distances at night. Traveling by taxi through Manhattan is safe. The meter starts automatically with each ride according to the fixed fares, and you can easily pay by credit card using the display in the taxi.

For the rest, I usually take the subway, as it’s cheaper and also an easy and fast way to get around the city.

My tips for traveling by taxi in New York

1. Pay attention to the illuminated roof sign

Only taxis with a lit roof sign are available for passengers. This immediately lets you know that the taxi is available. It also prevents you from accidentally getting into an unlicensed taxi.

2. Check the badge number

Every licensed taxi has a unique badge number on the roof and sides. By checking this number, you know you’re getting into a licensed taxi. It also allows you to file any complaints later, if necessary.

3. Avoid rush hour

During peak hours, usually between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM, fares rise quickly. Therefore, it’s wise to travel outside these times if possible. This way, you’ll save money and avoid unnecessary delays.

4. Be aware of surcharges

Taxis in New York have various surcharges, such as night surcharges, rush hour surcharges, and congestion surcharges. Furthermore, tolls are automatically added to the fare. By taking this into account, you will know in advance approximately what the trip will cost.

Special offers for airport transfer to Manhattan

If you’re planning a city trip to New York and are looking for an affordable airport transfer, take advantage of the offers below.

Disclaimer: Some links in this blog are affiliate links. If you book through these links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.