Reagan National Airport (DCA) offers some of the most affordable airport transfers in the US thanks to its proximity to downtown and direct Metro connection. Here is what you will actually pay.
Price breakdown by transport and destination
| Destination | Metro (USD) | Taxi (USD) | Uber/Lyft (USD) | Private transfer (USD) | |-------------|-----------|-----------|-----------------|----------------------| | Metro Center / Downtown | $2.50–$4.50 | $15–$20 | $12–$22 | $45–$60 | | Capitol Hill | $2.50–$4.50 | $12–$18 | $10–$20 | $45–$55 | | Dupont Circle | $2.50–$5.00 | $15–$22 | $12–$25 | $45–$60 | | Georgetown | N/A (no stop) | $18–$25 | $15–$28 | $50–$65 | | Arlington, VA | $2.50–$3.50 | $10–$15 | $8–$15 | $40–$50 | | Bethesda, MD | $3.00–$6.00 | $30–$45 | $25–$45 | $60–$80 | | Tysons Corner, VA | $3.50–$6.00 | $35–$50 | $30–$50 | $65–$85 |
All prices in USD. For EUR, multiply by approximately 0.92 at current exchange rates.
Peak vs off-peak Metro fares
Washington Metro uses variable pricing. Peak fares apply weekdays from opening to 9:30 AM and 3:00 to 7:00 PM. Off-peak fares are lower. A trip to Metro Center costs about $2.50 off-peak versus $4.00–$4.50 at peak. The difference is modest but worth knowing.
Taxi fare structure
DC taxis use meters — there is no flat rate from the airport. The meter starts at about $3.50 with increments based on distance and time. A tip of 15–20% is expected and customary in the US. A typical downtown ride lands at $15–$20 plus tip, making the total $18–$24 (EUR 17–22).
There is no airport surcharge at DCA, which keeps taxi costs reasonable.
Rideshare pricing
Uber and Lyft fares from DCA are usually $12–$22 to central DC during normal hours. During rush hour or events, surge pricing can push fares to $25–$40+. Check the app before committing — if the surge is high, a taxi may be cheaper.
When is a private transfer worth the cost?
At $45–$75 (EUR 41–69), a private transfer costs 3–4 times more than a taxi for the same route. The value comes from guaranteed availability, flight monitoring, meet-and-greet service, and the ability to request child seats or larger vehicles. For solo travelers or couples, it is a luxury. For families with luggage or business travelers needing reliability, the premium is justified.