Taximeter Rate Increase

Today, our new taxi meter rates go into effect, providing a much-needed increase for taxi drivers. After extensive outreach, the SFMTA board passed an 18% increase in the taximeter rates – the first increase in 11 years. During this time, the cost of living in the Bay Area has risen considerably.

•  45% increase in the cost of everyday items
• 50% increase in the cost of transportation
•  82% peak increase in the cost of gasoline.

The new rates listed below will support an industry that is an integral part of  our transportation system, especially for SF’s paratransit program.

The new rates go into effect beginning Thursday, November 17:

• First one-fifth mile of flag rate is $4.15
• Each additional one-fifth mile or fraction thereof is $0.65

• Each minute of waiting or traffic time delay is $0.65
• SFO pick-up fee is unchanged at $5.50

For more information on the current structure of taxi fares, please visit Taxi Fares.

To get a sense of what this increase will mean for an average rider, we show an estimate for a typical taxi trip.

Under the old rate structure, the average cost for a taxi ride was $16.04, which includes a 15% tip. Under the new approved structure, the average cost, including tip will be $18.98, or a $2.94 increase per trip. This increase goes directly to taxi drivers.

Impact on Paratransit Taxi Riders

Taxis have been an integral part of the SFMTA’s paratransit program since the 1980’s, and they provide an important mobility option for people with disabilities who are unable to use Muni. The SFMTA subsidizes 80% of the cost of paratransit taxi trips, and the paratransit taxi rider pays the remaining 20%. Paratransit taxi riders will see an increase of approximately $0.50 for an average paratransit taxi trip under the new meter rates. Paratransit taxi trips accounted for roughly 13% of all taxi trips in the last fiscal year.

Please contact SFTaxi@sfmta.com with any questions you may have about the new rates.