Quick answer: Miami taxis run on county-regulated meters: $2.95 for the first 1/6 mile, then $0.55–$0.85 per additional 1/6 mile plus $0.40 per minute of waiting. A typical downtown-to-airport ride costs about $27 including the $2 airport surcharge and takes around 20 minutes. Cash and cards are both accepted, and a 15–20% tip is customary. Rates checked against the Miami-Dade County tariff in July 2026.

How do taxis work in Miami?

Grabbing a Miami taxi is one of the handiest ways to move around the city and its outskirts. Many cab companies work the streets here, and the service is generally safe and dependable. Flagging down a ride in Florida's second most populated city is usually quick and painless as a result.

Yellow is the dominant color for local cabs. You will spot black ones too, though, which tend to belong to smaller licensed firms operating alongside the bigger fleets. Either way, a "Taxi" or "Cab" sign, the company phone number, and a visible rate card mark out a legitimate ride.

How much does a taxi cost in Miami?

A Miami taxi costs the metered fare: $2.95 for the first 1/6 mile, then $0.55–$0.85 per additional 1/6 mile, plus $0.40 per minute of waiting — rates are set by the county, not negotiated. A driver might now and then float a fixed price, but that practice is rare.

Here is the official structure (rates set by Miami-Dade County):

  • First 1/6 mile (0.26 km): $2.95
  • Each additional 1/6 mile up to 1 mile (1.6 km): $0.85
  • Each additional 1/6 mile after the first mile: $0.55
  • Waiting time: $0.40 per minute ($24 per hour)

Airport trips carry an extra charge, while any toll fees fall to the passenger. Wheelchairs, animals, luggage, and child seats ride at no extra cost.

Can you pay by card in a Miami taxi?

Yes. Both cash and card, whether credit or debit, are generally welcome. If you intend to pay by card, mention it to the driver before you set off to head off any awkwardness. On a 20-minute downtown hop billed at roughly $27, a card reader that fails at the curb is the last thing you want.

How to Hire a Taxi in Miami

You have several ways to flag a ride. Hail one straight from the street, walk to a nearby rank, or phone a cab company or open a taxi app.

Street hailing is common and usually works well, since plenty of cabs cruise the city at any hour. Ranks are widespread too, especially in central districts, near popular attractions, shopping malls, hotels, and entertainment zones.

Booking by phone or app is another route, though it can add a small fee. Lean on this option when you are out late at night, heading beyond the city limits, or racing to make a flight or cruise on time. With the meter starting at $2.95 for the first 1/6 mile, a confirmed pickup beats standing on a quiet corner hoping a free cab rolls by.

How much is a taxi from downtown to Miami Airport?

The typical fare from downtown to Miami International Airport sits around $27, including the $2 airport surcharge, and the run usually takes about 20 minutes in normal traffic. Street hailing is possible, yet pre-booking or calling ahead is the safer play for arriving on schedule.

Heavy congestion can stretch the trip out considerably, since waiting time bills at $0.40 per minute once the car slows to a crawl. Helpfully, cabs may use the designated MIA pick-up and drop-off lanes, which sidesteps the snarl inside the airport complex.

Extra Info & Tips about Taxis in Miami

  • Local cabs always bill by meter, airport runs included.
  • Confirm the meter is reset and switched on before the ride starts.
  • Check that the car is properly licensed. Authorized vehicles show a "Taxi" or "Cab" sign, the company phone number, the vehicle license number, the driver's license number, and a visible rate card.
  • Drivers are legally bound to take you to your chosen destination. Turning down short hops is illegal and can be reported.
  • Some drivers speak limited English, but many handle Spanish.
  • A broad range of accessible cabs serve the city.
  • Tipping is not compulsory, though a 15%–20% tip is customary for good service.

Fares change periodically — check current rates on the official source. New to MIA? Our Miami Airport guide covers terminals, parking and the basics.

Useful links: How to Get from Miami Airport to Downtown Miami