Touching down at one of Houston’s two major airports after a long flight is an exciting feeling – you’ve arrived in the dynamic and culturally-rich biggest city in Texas! But getting from the terminal curb to your final destination can sometimes be a hassle if you don’t know which of the abundant cab companies offer a comfortable, trustworthy and budget-friendly ride.
Whether you’re visiting Houston on business, vacationing with family, or a local sans car, this guide will steer you towards the most reliable ground transportation options from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). From pre-paid flat-rate taxi services to female-driven cabs and more, there are ample affordable choices to help you start your Houston adventures smoothly.
One of the most popular and reputable companies servicing both airports is Yellowcab Houston. Their large fleet of over 800 bright yellow cabs operate 24/7, with pristine late-model vehicles fully licensed, insured and regularly inspected. Rates are clearly metered starting at $6.00 for the first 1.5 miles plus $2.25 per additional mile after that. Apps likeCurbWalk allow you to pre-book and pay for your Yellowcab in advance if desired.
Families and groups may find better value through Yellowcab’s flat rate service to popular destinations like downtown ($43.17 from IAH), the Galleria area ($51.16), Medical Center ($35.19) and more. Even more affordable are their airport shared-ride shuttle vans running every 20 minutes between the terminals and over 30 high-demand locations across the Greater Houston region. These start at just $16 one-way from IAH.
For the utmost in safety and professional service, turn to one of Houston’s top-rated female-driven companies like Bride’s Cab Service or Houston Checker Cab. These women-owned operations pride themselves on drivers specially trained in defensive techniques, immaculately clean vehicles, and rigorous security protocols like verifying passenger IDs. This extra peace of mind is ideal for solo travelers, particularly late at night or when requested for hotel pickups.
Brides Cab offers premium sedans and SUVs easily booked by phone or online, with standard rates of $2.80/mile from IAH and $2.85/mile starting at Hobby. Checker Cab sets Houston’s gold standard for corporate transportation as well, with late-model Lincoln Town Cars at the ready. Their per-mile rate of $2.50 for up to 4 passengers is highly competitive.
Those watching their travel budgets extra closely will want to hail one of the local independent companies like AAA Taxi or Fiesta Cab. While their fleets may not boast the newest models, these outfits are known for honest pricing with no surge charges. Fiesta is an especially popular choice thanks to their affordable $42 flat rates from IAH to most downtown locations, as well as discounted $23 runs from Hobby to inner-city districts.
AAA Yellow Cab’s old-school approach of static per-mile rates ($2.40 from IAH, $2.90 from Hobby) appeals to those wanting no pricing surprises. Uber and Lyft have also become ubiquitous for visitors and locals alike seeking affordable and on-demand rideshare services,without all the cash handling. Expect an UberX from IAH to downtown to run around $35 on average.
If you’re only traveling with carry-on luggage, shared van shuttles like Roadway Shuttle can be the economical way to go for $17.50 one-way from IAH. Advance online reservations are required for these no-frills buses that make multiple hotel stops en route.
For the ultimate luxury transportation, book a private black car transfer through companies like Houston Chauffeur Service from $65 for a sedan to $179 for a Mercedes Benz Van between IAH and downtown addresses. Though pricy, these elite services offer limo-like amenities including door-to-door service, bottled water, device charging, and prompt professional chauffeurs. As an added benefit, many premium hotels offer discounted flat rates as a perk for their guests.
Families looking to get around Houston on their own schedule may find renting your own car easier and potentially more budget-friendly if using discounted reservation sites or opting for economy classes. Both airport’s consolidated rental facilities house all the major national brands like Hertz, Avis, Dollar, Enterprise and more. Expect reasonable prices of $40/day for basic economy rides.
Last but not least, let’s not forget one of Houston’s most iconic (and affordable!) ground transportation methods – the local taxi cab! Once you’re in town, be sure to simply hail a city cab when you see those lit “Vacant” toppers along the street whenever you’re ready for your next destination. Independent Houston-based fleets like United Cab, Fiesta Cab Company and others charge standard per-mile metered rates that start at $2.75 base plus $2.40 per mile with no surge pricing and clean late-model vehicles. Bonus: all credit cards accepted with no minimum fares.
No matter if you’re a business traveler seeking premium private transfers or a savvy local looking to save on fares, Houston’s diverse airport transportation ecosystem truly offers a convenient and budget-friendly solution. With a little advance planning and knowledge of providers, you’ll be on your way to exploring the city’s world-class attractions and restaurants in utmost comfort and safety from the moment you deplane.