How Much Does It Cost to Get from Nantucket Airport to Town?

Nantucket is a small island, so distances are short. But being an island resort destination means prices are higher than you might expect for a 10-minute ride. Here is what to budget in 2026.

Taxi fares by destination

Nantucket taxis use a zone-based fare system. Common fares from ACK airport:

• Nantucket Town center: $15-$20
• Surfside / Cisco area: $20-$28
• Siasconset (Sconset): $30-$40
• Madaket: $25-$35

These are per-trip fares, not per-person. An additional charge of $1-$2 per extra passenger may apply with some operators. Luggage is included in the fare.

Pre-booked private transfers

Private transfers from ACK typically cost:

• To town: $25-$45
• To Surfside / mid-island: $35-$50
• To Siasconset: $45-$65
• To Madaket: $40-$55

The premium over a taxi reflects guaranteed availability, a known vehicle, and the convenience of not hunting for a cab during peak season. For groups, a larger vehicle (SUV or van) costs $50-$85 depending on destination.

Budget options

NRTA Shuttle (The Wave): $1-$2 per ride. The South Loop route serves the airport area during summer. Routes run roughly every 30-60 minutes. This is the cheapest way to reach town center, but only works if the timing aligns and you have minimal bags.

Biking: If you arrange a rental bike delivery to the airport (some shops offer this), the cost is the bike rental itself — typically $25-$40 per day. There is a paved bike path to town.

Walking: Free, but 45 minutes to town and not practical with luggage.

Seasonal pricing

Nantucket's transport costs peak during summer (June-September), especially around July 4th, August weekends, and holiday weeks. Taxis and transfers may be at the top of their ranges. In the off-season (October-May), prices are generally lower and availability is easier, but fewer operators are active.

Rental cars

Renting a car at ACK runs $150-$300 per day in summer. Off-season rates drop to $80-$150 per day. Gas is also more expensive on the island. Many visitors find that between taxis, bikes, and shuttles, a car is unnecessary — and parking in town is limited.

Tips on saving money

• If traveling with others, share a taxi — the zone fare is per trip, not per person.
• Use the NRTA shuttle for secondary trips around the island once you are settled.
• Consider skipping the rental car entirely and using bikes for daily transport.
• Book your transfer in advance — last-minute airport pickups during peak season can command premium pricing.

What about tipping

Tipping taxi drivers 15-20% is customary in the United States. For a $20 ride, a $3-$4 tip is standard. Pre-booked transfer drivers should be tipped similarly.