On a small island with limited transport options, the taxi-vs-transfer question comes down to one thing: availability. Prices are similar. The difference is whether a car is there when you need it.
Taxis on Marthas Vineyard
The island has a handful of taxi companies serving the entire island, including the airport. During off-season and quiet weekdays, getting a taxi from MVY is usually straightforward. You may need to call a company directly rather than finding one waiting at the curb. During summer peak, particularly on weekends and around holidays, taxis are in high demand across the island. Arriving at MVY and calling for a taxi might mean a 20-30 minute wait, or longer during the busiest periods.
Fares from the airport run $15-45 depending on destination. Most operators charge zone-based rates rather than using meters. Vehicles are typically standard sedans or minivans, and drivers know the island well.
Pre-Booked Transfers
A pre-booked transfer costs about the same as a taxi: $20-45 to most island destinations. The difference is that your driver is committed to your booking. They know your flight arrival time and are at the airport when you land. During summer, when taxis may all be occupied elsewhere on the island, this guarantee has real value.
Transfer services also let you specify vehicle size, request child seats, and note special luggage requirements in advance. On an island where a surprise surfboard or extra-large suitcase can cause logistical problems, this planning capability matters.
The Summer Factor
From mid-June through early September, Marthas Vineyard's population swells from about 17,000 to over 100,000. The taxi fleet does not scale with the population. This mismatch means that during peak season, pre-booking your airport transport is not just convenient, it is practically essential. Many regular visitors to the island would never arrive in summer without arranged transport.
Off-Season Dynamics
From October through May, the island is quiet and transport is rarely a problem. Fewer taxis operate, but demand is proportionally lower. A phone call to a local taxi company from the terminal will usually get you a car within 10-15 minutes. Pre-booking still works if you prefer certainty, but the urgency is much lower.
Which Makes Sense
During summer, book a transfer. The small price premium over a taxi (if any) buys you guaranteed transport on an island where supply is genuinely limited. During off-season, either option works. If you are arriving on a busy holiday weekend, treat it like peak summer and book ahead. The worst outcome at MVY is being stranded at a small airport with no available cars, which is avoidable with a five-minute booking in advance.