Yellow Cab Rate Calculator
Standard (6am – 4pm)
Rush Hour (4pm – 8pm Mon-Fri)
Overnight (8pm – 6am)
15%
20%
25%
30%
Estimated Fare Breakdown
Base Flag Drop: $3.00
Distance Charge: $0.00
Wait Time Charge: $0.00
Surcharges (MTA/Imp): $1.50
Time Surcharge: $0.00
Tip: $0.00
Estimated Total: $0.00
*Estimation based on standard NYC Yellow Cab rates. Tolls not included.
How Yellow Cab Rates Are Calculated
Calculating the cost of a Yellow Cab ride involves several fixed and variable components. In most major metropolitan areas like New York City, the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) sets standardized rates to ensure transparency for passengers.
The core components of a taxi fare include:
- The Base Fare (Flag Drop): This is the initial charge the moment the meter starts. In NYC, this is currently $3.00.
- Mileage Rate: This is calculated based on the distance traveled. The standard rate is $0.70 per 1/5 of a mile (or $3.50 per mile) when the cab is traveling at speeds over 12 mph.
- Wait Time (Slow Traffic): When the vehicle is moving slower than 12 mph or is stopped, the meter charges by time. This is typically $0.70 per minute.
- Mandatory Surcharges: Most rides include an Improvement Surcharge ($1.00) and an MTA Tax ($0.50).
Typical Rate Structure Example
| Charge Type | Rate | When it Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Base Fare | $3.00 | Start of every trip |
| Distance | $3.50 / mile | Travel > 12 mph |
| Idle/Wait | $0.70 / min | Travel < 12 mph |
| Rush Hour | $2.50 | 4pm – 8pm (Mon-Fri) |
| Overnight | $1.00 | 8pm – 6am |
Using the Yellow Cab Calculator
To get a realistic estimate of your next trip, enter your estimated distance in miles. If you are traveling through high-traffic areas like Midtown Manhattan during the day, be sure to add 10-15 minutes of "Wait Time" to account for stop-and-go traffic. Our calculator automatically factors in the mandatory $1.50 in state fees and allows you to toggle specific time-of-day surcharges.
Tolls and Airport Flat Rates
Please note that this calculator estimates metered trips. For trips between Manhattan and JFK International Airport, a flat rate of $70 (plus surcharges, tolls, and tips) usually applies instead of the metered rate. Tolls are always added to the final meter price and are the responsibility of the passenger.