Perth is not a cheap city, and airport transport reflects that. Here is what each option realistically costs in 2026.
Airport train
The Forrestfield-Airport Link train costs approximately AUD $5.20 with a SmartRider card from the airport to Elizabeth Quay station in the CBD. Without a SmartRider (cash single ticket), it costs more — around AUD $7-8. Trains run roughly every 10-15 minutes and the journey takes 18 minutes. This is by far the cheapest option.
SmartRider cards can be purchased at the airport station. If you plan to use public transit during your stay, it is worth getting one immediately.
Rideshare fares
Uber rides from Perth Airport to the CBD cost AUD $25 to $45, depending on demand and time of day. Peak hours and late nights push prices toward the upper end. The app shows the fare before you confirm. Pickup is from designated areas in the terminal parking zones — a short walk from arrivals.
Taxi fares
Metered taxis to the Perth CBD run AUD $40 to $60. This includes a $3.40 airport surcharge that applies to all pickups from the airport. Tips are not expected in Australia but rounding up is appreciated. Taxis accept card payment.
Pre-booked private transfers
Private sedan transfers from PER to the CBD cost AUD $70 to $120. SUVs and minivans run AUD $100 to $160. The price is fixed at booking and includes meet-and-greet, luggage assistance, and direct door-to-door service. No surcharges, no surge pricing.
Fares to other destinations
Fremantle: AUD $55-80 by rideshare, AUD $70-100 by taxi, AUD $90-150 by private transfer. About 35 km from the airport.
Scarborough Beach: AUD $35-55 by rideshare, AUD $50-75 by taxi, AUD $80-130 by private transfer.
Cottesloe: AUD $40-60 by rideshare, AUD $55-80 by taxi, AUD $85-140 by private transfer.
Joondalup: AUD $60-90 by rideshare, AUD $80-120 by taxi, AUD $110-170 by private transfer. This is a longer drive north of the city.
What affects the price
Time of day: Rideshare surge pricing hits hardest during morning rush (7-9 AM) and evening rush (4-6 PM), plus late weekend nights. Train and private transfer prices stay constant.
Terminal location: Perth Airport's terminals are spread out. T3/T4 are slightly closer to the CBD than T1/T2, which can affect metered taxi fares by a few dollars.
Traffic: The Great Eastern Highway route to the CBD can be congested during peak hours. This increases taxi meter costs but does not affect fixed-price transfers or the train.
Tipping
Tipping is not customary in Australia. Taxi drivers, rideshare drivers, and transfer drivers do not expect tips. If you feel the service was particularly good, rounding up or adding a few dollars is generous but entirely optional.
Bottom line
Budget AUD $5 for the train, AUD $25-$60 for rideshare or taxi, or AUD $70-$120 for a private transfer. The train has genuinely changed the cost equation for Perth Airport — use it if you are traveling light and staying near the CBD. For everything else, factor in Australian prices and plan accordingly.