San Diego Ride Shares & Taxis

Multiple Taxis Waiting in Line to Pickup Passengers at the San Diego Airport

Using rideshare services in San Diego is very easy. We recommend downloading both Uber and Lyft apps ahead of time, so you can compare pricing and choose the cheaper option. You will need to make a profile and provide payment information before you can start using the app.

Did You Know?

That over 25% of the population in the United States uses Ride Shares at least once a month.

To request a ride, you’ll just need to enter your destination in the app - your phone will pick up your current location. The app will then show you a few different ride options and their pricing.

Pool is an option that can save you money by sharing a car with other riders going in your direction, while a standard ride share will give you a car to yourself. You can also request black cars and other luxury vehicles.

Once you’ve selected the ride you want, the app will pair you with a driver. You’ll be able to see your driver’s location on the map. You’ll also be able to see their license plate number as well as the make and model of their car, which will help you identify them when they arrive.

If you are planning on using a traditional taxi service while in San Diego, make sure you have their number saved in your phone or somewhere else accessible as you travel. You’ll need to call them and give them your location information in order to request a ride. While you may be able to hail a taxi in some parts of San Diego, you shouldn’t rely on this.

Rideshares are available at any time in San Diego. Keep in mind that you may need to wait longer for a ride if you are requesting one very early in the morning.

You’ll also need to accommodate for surge pricing. During peak periods, Uber and Lyft raise their rates to entice their drivers to work. Surge pricing normally happens in the evenings, especially on weekends or during big events like Comic-Con. Prices are the highest right after 2 AM, when the bars close.

To beat the surge pricing, try requesting your ride earlier in the evening. Not only will this bring the price down, but you also won’t have to wait as long for a ride.

The cost of a rideshare in San Diego can fluctuate, depending on the time of day and the level of demand for rides. Rides are generally affordable - for example, the average cost of a ride from the Gaslamp to La Jolla is about $20.

Uber does not have their pricing scheme readily available. However, we do know that they calculate their fares based on both the distance and the time it takes to get there, with added fees for busy times.

Lyft has a more transparent pricing scheme. They charge $0.90 per mile and $0.31 per minute, with a minimum fare of $4. Like Uber, you’ll pay extra for rides during busy times.

Taxi companies in the San Diego area typically charge a $2-3 base fee, and then $2-3 per mile. There are additional fees for waiting.

Tipping Your Ride Share Driver

After your ride, you’ll be asked to rate your driver in the app. This is also when you’ll have the option to leave them a tip. While you don’t have to tip your ride share driver, it is considered polite to do so.

Shared Rides in San Diego

Both Uber and Lyft provide the option for shared rides using their Pool service. This is a great way to save money, particularly if you’re going to one of San Diego’s tourist attractions.

If you take a shared ride with the Pool service, keep in mind that you can only take a maximum of two people, and that your ride may take longer.