Harry Reid International Airport is only about 5 km from the Las Vegas Strip. The short distance keeps base fares low, but surge pricing during events and weekends can change the equation.
Full price breakdown
| Transport | Destination | Price | Journey time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public bus (Route 109) | South Strip | USD 6-8 / EUR 5-7 | 30-45 min |
| Rideshare (off-peak) | Strip hotel | USD 12-25 / EUR 11-23 | 10-20 min |
| Taxi | Strip hotel | USD 15-25 / EUR 14-23 + tip | 10-20 min |
| Rideshare (surge) | Strip hotel | USD 30-50 / EUR 28-46 | 10-20 min |
| Pre-booked transfer (sedan) | Strip hotel | USD 35-60 / EUR 32-55 | 10-20 min |
| Pre-booked transfer (SUV) | Strip hotel | USD 50-80 / EUR 46-74 | 10-20 min |
| Limo transfer | Strip hotel | USD 80-150 / EUR 74-138 | 10-20 min |
| Taxi | Downtown (Fremont) | USD 20-30 / EUR 18-28 + tip | 15-25 min |
| Taxi | Henderson | USD 30-45 / EUR 28-41 + tip | 20-30 min |
What makes prices spike
Las Vegas transport pricing is event-driven. During major conventions (CES in January, SEMA in November), weekend nights, fight nights at MGM, and concert letouts, rideshare surge pricing can triple normal rates. A ride that costs USD 15 on a Tuesday morning can cost USD 50 on a Saturday night.
Taxis have metered rates regulated by the Nevada Taxi Authority, so they do not surge. The airport surcharge is a flat USD 2. This makes taxis more predictable during peak times.
Tips for saving money
Check both Uber and Lyft before booking. Prices differ and one app often has a significantly better rate at any given moment. If both are surging, a taxi is your best bet since the fare is metered and fixed by regulation.
The public bus (Route 109) is the cheapest option at USD 6 for a 2-hour pass, but it is slow and impractical with luggage. It connects to the South Strip Transit Terminal where you can transfer to the Deuce bus that runs the length of the Strip.
For groups of 3-4, splitting a taxi or sedan transfer makes it cheaper per person than individual rideshares, especially during surge periods.
Tipping reminder
Tipping is deeply embedded in Las Vegas culture. Taxi drivers expect 15-18%. Rideshare tips are added through the app after the ride. Transfer drivers typically receive USD 5-10. Budget an extra 15-20% on top of the fare.