Does ridesharing save money, or do you pay a premium for convenience?

Which Is Cheaper: Uber or Taxis?

Taxi fares vary drastically by location, and the same is true for Uber fees.

Someone using a smartphone next to a street

Mlenny / Getty Images

Uber also offers different levels of service based on your preferences.

If you’re considering which service to take to the airport, the cheaper option is almost always Uber.

For example, many taxi riders tip their drivers around 20 percent.

Uber offers a tipping option as well.

Uber’s surge pricing is another major variable that can affect cost.

In addition to a minimum fare amount, Uber also charges a cancellation fee that varies by city.

That said, geographic location also matters.

It’s a near-draw in cities like Washington, D.C., and Nashville.

A study by GOBankingRates found that Uber was the more economical choice in 16 of 20 major U.S. cities.