✈️ How to Get from San Francisco Airport (SFO – USA): transport, prices and tips
Arrived at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and wondering how to get from SFO to downtown or your final destination?
This complete 2025 guide covers every option — private transfer, public transport, ride-hailing apps, taxis, safety, accessibility, and SIM cards.
SFO is located in Millbrae, about 21 km (13 miles) south of downtown San Francisco, and is one of the busiest airports in the United States and on the West Coast.
Transfer Price Estimates by Destination 💰
Private transfers are ideal for travelers seeking comfort and door-to-door service — perfect for families or groups.
| Category | Downtown San Francisco | Nearby neighborhoods | Tourist cities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (shared shuttle) | US$ 25–45 | US$ 20–35 | Napa Valley: US$ 80–120 |
| Executive (sedan/SUV) | US$ 45–80 | US$ 40–70 | Palo Alto: US$ 70–100 |
| Luxury (limousine/large SUV) | US$ 80–150+ | US$ 70–120 | Silicon Valley: US$ 90–150 |
Rideshare Apps (Uber / Lyft) 📊
- Operation: fully available at the airport
- Pickup area: Level 5 of the Domestic Garage, clearly marked with signs
- Airport fee: flat surcharge of US$ 5.50 per ride from SFO
- Average wait time: 5–10 minutes
| Category | Downtown | Nearby neighborhoods | Palo Alto / Silicon Valley |
|---|---|---|---|
| UberX / Standard Lyft | US$ 46–50 | US$ 30–40 | US$ 70–90 |
| Comfort | US$ 55–65 | US$ 40–55 | US$ 80–100 |
| Luxury / Black | US$ 80–120 | US$ 60–100 | US$ 110–160 |
Taxi Estimates 💵
- Base fare: US$ 4.10
- Airport surcharge (SFO pickup): US$ 6.00
- Payment: cash, card, or contactless accepted
| Destination | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Downtown San Francisco | US$ 55–65 |
| Mission District | US$ 50–60 |
| Palo Alto | US$ 80–100 |
| Oakland | US$ 70–90 |
| Berkeley | US$ 75–95 |
Public Transportation: BART and Bus 🚌🚇
BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)
- Station located at the International Terminal, connected via the AirTrain.
- Travel time to downtown: ≈30 minutes
- Average fare: US$ 5.35 per ride
- Connection to Caltrain available in Millbrae
SamTrans (local bus)
- Routes 292, 397, and KX connect the airport with San Mateo, Palo Alto, and San Francisco.
- Cost: US$ 2.50–5.00
- Slower than BART but the cheapest option.
Safety Tips ⚠️
- Use only licensed taxis or official ride apps (Uber/Lyft).
- Avoid accepting rides from strangers inside the terminal.
- Always check the license plate, car model, and driver name in the app.
- Keep your belongings close in busy airport and BART areas.
Accessibility ♿
- All terminals have ramps, elevators, and tactile signage.
- The AirTrain is free and wheelchair accessible.
- Uber and Lyft offer accessible vehicle options (Uber WAV).
- Accessible taxis are also available upon request.
Where to Buy a SIM Card at the Airport 📱
- Kiosks from AT&T, T-Mobile, and authorized resellers are located in the terminals.
- Prepaid plans start at US$ 20–40 with 4G/5G internet.
- Alternative: buy a SIM card in the city or use an eSIM option.
Conclusion: Best Transport for Each Traveler 🎯
- Most economical 💰: SamTrans bus or BART
- Fastest ⚡: Uber, Lyft, or taxi
- Most comfortable 👥: private transfer (sedan/SUV)
- Most flexible 🚗: rideshare or taxi directly to your destination
FAQ
Do Uber and Lyft operate at San Francisco Airport (SFO)?
Yes — pickups are on Level 5 of the Domestic Garage.
How much is BART to downtown?
About US$ 5.35, with a travel time of around 30 minutes.
Taxi or Uber — which is better?
At night, taxis can be faster; during rush hours, Uber/Lyft are usually cheaper.
Where can I buy a SIM card at the airport?
At AT&T and T-Mobile kiosks, starting around US$ 20.
