Cab in New York: How does the cab in New York work?

April 6, 2025 Citie to Travel Comments Off

Taking a cab in New York is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around the city. In this blog we explain how the cab system in New York works, what the costs are, and what you can expect when it comes to tips for the drivers

How does the cab in New York work?

The cab system in New York is simple, but possibly different from what you are used to. After all, you can hail a cab in New York simply by raising your hand. Make sure the light on the roof of the cab is on, which means the cab is available. If the light is off, the cab is occupied or unavailable.

Tip: Wait to state your destination until you are in the cab. This is important because some drivers in New York may refuse you if they are not satisfied with the destination. Once you are in the cab, they cannot refuse you.

What does a cab in New York cost?

The cost of a cab in New York can vary depending on the time of day. Here’s what to expect:

1. Between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. (rush hour): During these hours, it is harder to find a cab and the price is also higher. The boarding fare is $3.50, and the ride may be more expensive due to traffic.

2. Between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. (off-peak): During these hours, fares are lower, with a $3.00 boarding fee and less traffic.

In addition, for every 1/5 mile (about 322 meters), an extra $0.50 is added. This means that if you travel during rush hour, the ride may cost more because of long wait times in traffic.

Tip: If you want to save costs, it is better to travel outside rush hours.

How can you pay in a New York cab?

In a New York cab, you can pay either by cash or credit card. However, using a credit card is increasingly common because it is both safe and convenient.

How much should you tip the taxi in New York?

The question “How much should you tip the cab in New York?” often comes up among tourists. Generally, a tip of 20% to 25% of the fare is expected. Many cabs in New York have a display on which you can choose how much to tip, with options such as 20%, 25% or 30%.

If the driver helps you load or unload a lot of luggage, consider tipping 25% or more. So it is important to always consider the service you have received.

Tip: Make sure you always tip at least 20%. If the driver provides extra service, such as helping with heavy luggage, be generous and tip higher.

Travelling by cab in New York in the evening and at night

If you are traveling in the evening or at night, a cab in New York is often the fastest and safest mode of transportation. However, keep in mind that a $1 surcharge is added between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. for rides during these hours.

What are the Green cabs in New York?

Green cabs (also called Boro cabs) are another option in New York. They serve specific neighborhoods such as Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island and the northern part of Manhattan, but they are not allowed rides to the airports. The fare for a green cab is the same as a yellow cab in New York.

Is the Boro cab cheaper than the Yellow cab in New York?

No, green cab (Boro cab) fares are identical to yellow cab fares in New York. The main difference is the area in which these cabs are available.

The Yellow Cab vs. Revel, Lyft and Uber

In addition to the iconic yellow cab in New York, you can also use ridesharing services such as Uber , Revel and Lyft. Both apps offer an easy way to book a ride. Still, the yellow cab often remains the fastest way to find a cab in New York, especially when you want to travel quickly from A to B.

Tip: If you need a cab quickly, it’s better to stick with a yellow cab. If you want more flexibility, you can also opt for Uber or Lyft, depending on price and availability.

Special offers for a city trip to New York

Are you going on a city break to New York and would like to visit some of the sights and attractions, take advantage of the offers below and save money on your admission tickets.