By Contributing Writer
New York City is always an adventure no matter what time of year you go there. But whether you are a visitor or live there, there are many ways of getting around without having the need for a car, such as using public transit. You can ride the trains, subways, bus, limo or taxi. Taxi service is one of the better ways to get around the city, as one will take you where it is you need to go directly. These costs are based on information given by the Taxi & Limousine Commission, copyrighted 2009.
Within New York City
Going uptown, downtown, crosstown or anywhere in between in NYC the basic start rate upon entry into the cab is $2.50. From there it will increase with every 4 blocks or so with an average cost of $.40 each, known as the unit fare. The meter will also increase if you are sitting idle for each 60 seconds or in heavy traffic. If you have luggage that needs to go in the trunk, the rate will start at that point. The upon entry fee for any handicapped person will not begin until the rider is seated and ready to go.
Other Surcharges and Fees
There is a $.50 surcharge for using a cab between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am. A $1.00 surcharge applies during rush-hour from Monday to Friday between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm.
All tolls are the responsibility of the rider prior to leaving the cab. Taxis use the E-Z Pay lane, and the passenger will pay that E-Z pay rate.
Flat Rate Fares
Taxi service to JFK Airport costs about $45.00 one way. Surcharges do not apply. If several stops are needed the upfront $45.00 will be charged at the first stop, followed by the unit fare.
There are also flat rates to any other borough in New York. The Bronx cost range is $38.00 to $53.00, depending on drop off location. The Brooklyn cost range is $33.00 to $38.00. Queens cost range is $20.00 to $25.00, and Staten Island cost range is $51.00 to $55.00.
Other Flat Rate Fares
LaGuardia Airport fares can cost from $24.00 to $28.00.
A taxi ride to Newark International Airport can cost from $69.00 to $75.00 with an additional surcharge.
Any other destination outside the city, the fare will be agreed upon between the driver and the rider, then set into the meter, before departure.
Methods of Payment as of 2009
Cash is accepted in all cabs, but please use small bills. Many cabs will take credit and debit cards, and many will also calculate in gratuity fees.
How to Save a Few Bucks
A taxi is required to carry up to four riders. You can save some money by sharing a cab with one or more riders, splitting the cost among all of you.
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