When in Las Vegas, it can be especially helpful to have a designated driver. Parking costs an arm and a leg at any of the hotels on The Vegas Strip and if you are drinking, driving is NEVER a good idea. So leave the rental cars at the airport for those that aren’t as in the know as you are – and check out our 5 Transportation Options in Sin City.
Uber
The most popular and well known of the rideshare companies to date, Uber is alive and kicking in Las Vegas. There was a pretty significant war when Uber first came to Las Vegas though. You see, Vegas cabbies can benefit significantly when in demand. Strip clubs and massage parlors off the strip to drop off fares at their establishments. Some places will pay a driver up to $150 per person dropped off. And when there is no Uber or Lyft readily available, people will opt to hop in the Taxi line instead. That is why you’ll notice Taxi lines at the front of most hotels, while the Uber or Lyft pickup is typically around the back of the building.
Uber can be very cost effective but the prices can change depending on supply and demand. The fewer available Uber drivers, the busier the time of day, the more expensive your ride is going to be. Simply sign onto the Uber app, input your payment information and type in your destination address. Cars will respond to your current location as they are available and as soon as you select your preferred driver an estimated time until arrival will appear.
Just remember, if you ask for recommendations from your driver, it might a paid advertisement you’re getting.
An Uber from Mccarran Airport to The Strip averages $10-30 depending on your ride type.
Lyft
Lyft is very similar to Uber except for one (fairly important) detail. You can tip your driver in a Lyft. Some people consider that a benefit, tipping their driver for a job well done. Some people consider it TOO much to tip when they are already paying for a ride. Isn’t the driver getting paid already anyway? Well, even though Uber and Lyft drivers are enticed with hourly wages of $25-35 an hour, with the company cut, the city taxes and other hidden costs, only making around $12 an hour. So if that matter to you, take a Lyft and tip your driver.
A Lyft from Mccarran Airport to The Strip averages $8-27.
Taxi Cab
You walk out the front door of your swanky Las Vegas hotel, step into the street and whistle to hail a cab. NOT IN VEGAS. Cars are not allowed to stop on the strip to pick you up or drop you off. If you want a taxi from your hotel you will need to wait in the (often absurdly long) taxi line. These lines can move pretty quickly, so don’t stress too badly if the line seems never ending. For an estimated fare before your trip, try visiting and inputting your information.
A Taxi from Mccarran Airport to The Strip averages $25.
Public Transportation
If you are looking for the most budget friendly option, the public transportation is going to be your go to. Mind you, the transit system in a city you know well can be confusing – let alone the transit system in a city you are a tourist in. Preparing in advance, making sure you know the fares required and the routes and bus or train numbers you will need to take are vital in making sure you don’t end up completely lost and very late
A 24 hour all access pass on the transit system of Las Vegas is $8.
Car Service
A car service is a viable option when you’ve got the money to spare. Private town cars start around $45 an hour and get more expensive as the luxury of the vehicle increases.
A private car from Mccarran Airport to The Strip averages $70-250 depending on your car selection.
If you have read this far, I’m going to share a little tip with you. There is a brilliant website called that will give you a live comparison of the estimated cost of your trip by Uber, Lyft or Taxi. If you’re budget conscious it is a great way to get the cheapest ride possible at any given time.