When navigating a new city—or even your own—choosing between a taxi and public transit can shape your entire experience. Taxis offer speed and privacy, while buses and subways are budget-friendly and often more sustainable. But how do you know when it’s worth paying extra for a taxi instead of taking the train or bus?

This post explores key factors to consider when deciding between taxis and public transit and how to save money either way—whether you’re commuting for work, traveling for business, or exploring as a tourist.

1. Time sensitivity: Taxis save time in the right conditions
   Taxis shine when every minute counts. If you’re running late for a meeting, catching a flight, or traveling during off-peak hours with low traffic, a taxi can cut your travel time in half. In contrast, public transit often requires multiple transfers and strict timetables.

Still, if your route includes congested urban areas during rush hour, public transit may actually be faster—especially if you’re using rapid lines like New York City’s Express Subway Service or Chicago’s ‘L’ trains.

2. Cost: Public transit wins for budget travel
   Fares for subways and buses are typically fixed and much lower than taxi rates. For example, a subway ride in NYC is $2.90, while the average taxi fare for the same distance can exceed $20 during traffic or peak hours.

However, if you’re traveling in a group, a shared taxi fare can be cost-effective—especially when split among 2–3 people. For solo travel on a tight budget, transit almost always comes out ahead.

3. Luggage and accessibility: Taxis offer ease and comfort
   If you’re traveling with heavy bags, children, or need wheelchair-accessible transport, a taxi is often more convenient. While some public transit systems are improving accessibility, elevators and ramps can be limited, and space for luggage is scarce.

Apps like Curb and Uber also offer services for wheelchair users or those who need extra assistance.

4. Destination flexibility: Taxis go door to door
   Public transit requires navigating to stations, transferring lines, and often walking several blocks. Taxis provide door-to-door service, ideal for hard-to-reach destinations or neighborhoods without nearby transit stops.
5. Local familiarity: Public transit can be overwhelming
   For newcomers to a city, learning a transit map can be intimidating. Apps like Transit and Citymapper help, but if you’re short on time or worried about language barriers, a taxi may be the less stressful option.
6. Safety: Consider time of day and location
   Late at night or in unfamiliar areas, taxis may feel safer than waiting at an empty bus stop or walking through a dark subway station. However, always use regulated taxis or verified rideshare services.

How to save no matter which you choose
Even if taxis cost more, there are ways to reduce that expense. With Fluz, riders can buy an Uber gift card with cashback or earn cashback with a Lyft gift card and apply them directly in the app. These gift cards match the exact cost of your ride, allowing you to save on every trip without sacrificing convenience.

Apps like Ibotta and Rakuten also offer occasional rebates or cash back for booking transportation or buying related travel items.

Final thoughts
Taxis and public transit both have their place—it’s all about the context. When you’re prioritizing cost, go with buses or subways. When time, comfort, or door-to-door service matters, a taxi is often worth the splurge. And with tools like Fluz and other cashback apps, you can offset the cost of taxis and make smarter spending decisions no matter how you ride.