Getting a Ride in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is a compact, walkable city, yet many residents and visitors still need reliable ground transportation. Students head home late at night, travelers need rides to Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and patients require dependable trips to medical appointments at Michigan Medicine. On football Saturdays, demand for rides spikes dramatically as tens of thousands of fans converge on the stadium.
The city's ride market includes traditional taxi companies, app-based rideshare platforms, airport car services, and specialized transportation providers. Below are ten of the best options for getting around Ann Arbor safely and conveniently.
What Makes a Good Taxi Service
Reliability, safety, transparent pricing, and courteous drivers are essential. For airport trips, punctuality and flight tracking are especially important. Accessibility options, such as wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and the ability to book in advance can also make a significant difference for many riders.
The Top 10 Taxi and Ride Services in Ann Arbor
1. Uber
Uber is widely available throughout Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County. Its app offers multiple ride options, from affordable shared rides to premium vehicles. Upfront pricing, driver ratings, and real-time tracking make it a convenient choice for everyday trips and airport transfers.
2. Lyft
Lyft is another popular rideshare platform serving Ann Arbor. It offers similar features to Uber, including upfront pricing and in-app safety tools. Many riders compare both apps to find the fastest pickup or best price, especially during busy periods.
3. Metro Cars
Metro Cars is a well-established Detroit-area transportation company known for airport transfers and executive car service. It is a trusted choice for travelers who want pre-scheduled, professional rides to and from DTW, with flight tracking and meet-and-greet options.
4. Ann Arbor Yellow Cab
Local taxi companies like Ann Arbor Yellow Cab provide traditional cab service, including phone bookings and airport rides. Traditional taxis can be especially helpful for riders who prefer not to use smartphone apps or who need advance reservations.
5. Blue Cab
Blue Cab is another local taxi option serving Ann Arbor and surrounding communities. Local cab companies often know the area well and can be reliable for early morning airport trips and scheduled rides.
6. Michigan Flyer
While not a taxi, Michigan Flyer offers scheduled motorcoach service between Ann Arbor and Detroit Metropolitan Airport. It is an affordable and comfortable alternative to taxis for airport travel, particularly for solo travelers with luggage.
7. TheRide FlexRide
The Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority, known as TheRide, operates FlexRide, an on-demand shared ride service in designated areas. Riders book trips through an app or by phone, making it a convenient, affordable option for neighborhoods with limited fixed-route bus service.
8. A-Ride Paratransit
TheRide's A-Ride service provides door-to-door paratransit for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route buses. It plays an essential role in ensuring accessible transportation for residents throughout the service area.
9. Executive Limousine and Black Car Services
Ann Arbor's business travelers, wedding parties, and event attendees often book limousine and black car services for special occasions. These companies offer luxury vehicles, professional chauffeurs, and customized itineraries for corporate events and celebrations.
10. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation Providers
Several transportation companies in Washtenaw County specialize in non-emergency medical transportation. They provide rides for patients traveling to appointments, dialysis, or therapy, often with wheelchair-accessible vehicles and trained drivers.
Trends in Ann Arbor Ground Transportation
App-based ridesharing has transformed how residents get around, but traditional taxis remain important for scheduled trips and riders without smartphones. On-demand microtransit, like FlexRide, is filling gaps in public transit coverage. Electric vehicles are also becoming more common among rideshare drivers, aligning with Ann Arbor's sustainability goals. On game days, the city and university coordinate designated pickup zones to manage heavy traffic.
Comparing Costs: Taxi, Rideshare, or Shuttle
The right choice often depends on the trip. For short rides around downtown and campus, rideshare apps are usually the fastest and most affordable option outside peak periods. For airport trips, costs vary more widely. Rideshare fares to DTW fluctuate with demand, while pre-booked car services typically quote a fixed rate that includes waiting time and flight tracking. Scheduled shuttles such as Michigan Flyer are often the least expensive choice for solo travelers, though they require planning around fixed departure times.
Groups traveling together may find that a single larger vehicle is more economical than multiple rides, and families with young children should book services that can provide car seats. Business travelers who need receipts and predictable billing often prefer corporate accounts with established car service companies. Whatever you choose, comparing two or three options before a long trip can produce meaningful savings.
Tips for Riders
Book airport rides in advance, especially for early morning flights. On football Saturdays, expect surge pricing and longer wait times, and use designated pickup zones near the stadium. Always verify your driver and vehicle before getting in. For accessible rides, schedule ahead to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Ann Arbor offers a strong mix of rideshare, taxi, airport shuttle, and specialized transportation services. Whether you need a quick ride downtown, a scheduled airport transfer, or accessible transportation, these providers can help you reach your destination safely and comfortably.