A standard rideshare from Robson Street to Science World costs about $11 at normal demand, and the likely range is $9 to $13. The trip is 3 km and takes about 8 minutes.
Where the $11 comes from
Our estimate starts with average rideshare rates. The base fare is $2.50, distance is $1.15 per km, time is $0.35 per minute, and there is a $2 booking fee. Three kilometres adds about $3.45 and eight minutes adds $2.80. None of this is an Uber quote, only our estimate from average rates, and the app gives the real upfront price at the moment you request the ride.
When demand rises, so does the total. At a busy 1.2 multiplier the price is about $13. At very busy (1.5) it is about $15, and at peak (2.0) it is about $20. On a hop this short, a surge can double the cost, so a quick look at the app before you order is worth the few seconds.
Bigger vehicles cost more: Comfort is about $13, XL (up to 6 seats) is about $15 and Premier is about $22. The regional minimum fare is $4.43, but this trip sits far above it.
Meter reading from Robson Street to Science World
Whalley Taxi and Royal City Taxi have a flag fee of $3.75 and a per km rate of $2.18. For 3 km the meter would show about $10. Waiting time and extras are not included in that number. On a short ride the flag fee is a big share of the fare, which is why a taxi and a rideshare end up so close in price at normal demand.
You can also phone for a taxi. Black Top & Checker Cabs is on 604-731-1111, and MacLure’s Cabs is on 604-831-1111.
Practical tips for a short city ride
Short trips in a busy part of a city go smoothly when the details are right. A few things help:
- Check the pickup pin in the app and move it if it is on the wrong side of the street.
- Share the exact address or meeting spot with the driver.
- Ask whether luggage or shopping bags will fit before you book a standard car.
- Book an accessible vehicle by phone ahead of time.
If you are visiting a popular attraction, expect other people to be asking for cars at the same time as you. Allow a few extra minutes on the clock, and do not count on the ride taking only 8 minutes if you are catching something with a set start.