How to check Uber prices

Are you trying to take a ride somewhere? Uber is an easy way to get around if you have no access to a vehicle. It can also get expensive, though. Especially during busy days, peak hours, and holidays. Today, we’ll teach you how to check Uber prices before you hire a ride with a driver.

Editor’s note: We used a Google Pixel 7 running Android 13 and a custom PC running Windows 11 to develop these instructions. Keep in mind some steps may differ depending on your device and software. The steps are nearly identical on Android and iOS, though.

How to get an Uber fare estimate on the mobile app

Most use the Uber mobile app to hitch rides. After all, you always carry your smartphone with you. Let’s show you how to check Uber prices on mobile.

1. Launch the Uber app.
2. Tap on the Ride button.
3. Hit the Enter pickup location area and select where you want the ride to start.
4. Tap on the Where to? section to select your destination.
5. Once you select both, you’ll get results showing you the types of rides you can take, as well as pricing info.

How to get an Uber fare estimate using a browser

The process is nearly as simple if you’re using a web browser. Let’s walk you through the steps.

1. Using a browser, go to Uber.com.
2. Click on Log in.
3. Select Sign in to ride.
4. Enter your credentials and sign in.
5. Make sure you are in the Ride tab.
6. Enter the Pickup location and Dropoff location.
7. Select when you want to leave.
8. Hit Search.
9. You’ll get results showing you the types of rides you can take, as well as pricing info.

What can I do to get a cheaper Uber price?

Not liking the price you see? There are a few things you can try to lower the Uber price. Let’s tell you all about them.

Check your ride options

You don’t have to pick the first option that Uber throws at you when taking a ride. When you get your ride results, simply swipe up and you’ll see various ride types. UberX, UberXL, and Comfort are the most common, but there are some cheaper alternatives you can choose from.

How to change your Uber ride type:

1. Launch the Uber app.
2. Tap on the Ride button.
3. Hit the Enter pickup location area and select where you want the ride to start.
4. Tap on the Where to? section to select your destination.
5. Once you select both, you’ll get results showing you the types of rides you can take, as well as pricing info.
6. Swipe up from the ride type area to expand the section.
7. Go through all the options and see what’s cheaper.

The cheapest option is commonly UberX Share, formerly known as Uber Pool. Under this ride category, you’ll be sharing your ride with other people. This means the driver will have to pick up or drop off riders along the way.

By the way, there are also more expensive, fancier options, too.

Just wait!

If you’re not in a rush to get to your destination, simply waiting can lower the price of your Uber ride. The price might be inflated due to high demand, which can be caused by peak hours, holiday activities, weekends, and more. If you wait for demand to lower, Uber prices will also decrease.

Of course, waiting for Uber prices to lower can also work against you. If, for any reason, demand increases, or there are fewer drivers in your area, the price will also go higher.

Move around

Surges are location-specific on Uber. This means that, for example, prices are likely higher right in the middle of a party area in downtown, on a Saturday night. But maybe you’ll have better luck some blocks away, in a lonelier street. The good news is you don’t have to physically move around to check if prices are lower a few blocks away. Just change the pickup location a bit away from busy areas from the app and see if the price is lower.

Maybe try Uber One?

Do you see the discounted prices on my screenshots above? Those show up because I am an Uber One subscriber. The subscription costs $9.99 monthly, but you can often get good trial periods. We’ve seen trial periods last as much as three months, but they change.

Uber One gets you discounts on general Uber expenses. For example, you’ll get 5% off on rides. You can also get 5% off and $0 delivery fees when you buy groceries. If you are a common Uber Eats customer, you can also enjoy $0 delivery fees and up to 10% off orders. Additionally, Uber One users get 6% Uber Cash credits. Uber claims One subscribers save about $27 a month.

Of course, this is only a worthy option if you are a frequent Uber customer, though. You could always check if there is a good free trial offer for you! You can use it and then cancel before the trial period ends.

Try finding deals on Uber gift cards

This one is a bit of a hit or miss, but you may find some sweet deals if you’re lucky. While not all too common, sometimes certain retailers offer Uber gift cards on a discount. You may get a few bucks off! It’s worth a try. You can always check Amazon or Best Buy for good deals.

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