The distance from YVR Airport to Richmond Centre is only 6 km, and the drive takes about 12 minutes. A standard rideshare costs about $16 at normal demand, with a likely range of $14 to $18.
A short fare, and how it adds up
Our figures are estimates from average rates, not Uber’s own prices.
The base fare is $2.50, distance adds $1.15 per km and time adds $0.35 per minute. For 6 km and 12 minutes that comes to $13.60. The $2 booking fee lifts it to about $16.
On very short trips a regional minimum fare of $4.43 applies, but at this distance you are well above it, so it does not change the result.
When the area is busy
At a busy level (1.2 times) the estimate is about $18. Very busy (1.5 times) is about $22, and peak demand (2 times) is about $29.
The dollar gap is small on a trip this short, though the percentage is the same as on a long one. The Uber app shows the real upfront price before you book.
Comfort is about $19 and XL, which seats up to six, is about $22. Premier is about $33.
Taxi, and getting picked up
Whalley Taxi and Royal City Taxi publish a flag fee of $3.75 and a rate of $2.18 per km. Over 6 km the meter comes to about $17 for either one. Waiting time and extras are not included.
That is close to the rideshare estimate, so on a trip like this the choice can come down to which is easier to arrange. Vancouver Taxi is on 604-871-1111 and Yellow Cab Vancouver is on 604-681-1111. Both say they run wheelchair accessible vehicles and accept airport fares.
Since you are leaving an airport, open the app after you land and follow the pickup instructions it shows. Share your exact destination address, and ask the driver whether your luggage fits if you are carrying a lot.
A 12 minute drive is an average. If you have a booking to reach, leave some margin, because busy hours can stretch a short trip. If you need an accessible vehicle, book one ahead by phone.
For a ride this short, it is worth checking the total on the confirmation screen before you tap to book. A change of a dollar or two matters more here than on a long trip, and the screen shows exactly what you will be charged.