A taxi from Melbourne Airport to the city typically costs $38 to $170 depending on your destination and whether you choose fixed-price fare or metered pricing. The key difference is certainty: fixed-price fare gives you one guaranteed price, while metered pricing changes with traffic.
This guide explains the real costs, what is included, and how to choose the best option for your trip.
Fixed-price fare vs metered pricing
Fixed-price fare
You see the total price before you book. The fare does not change with traffic or route. It includes tolls and standard fees.
Typical fixed-price fares:
- Melbourne CBD: $82
- Carlton, Fitzroy: $74 to $77
- St Kilda, South Yarra: $104 to $110
- Brighton, Caulfield: $111 to $116
- Box Hill, Doncaster: $110 to $114
- Essendon, Brunswick: $49 to $71
- Werribee, Point Cook: $102 to $111
Metered fare
Metered taxis charge a flagfall plus distance and time. You also pay tolls on top.
Typical metered components (check current rates):
- Flagfall: about $5.25
- Distance: about $2.04 per km
- Waiting time: about $0.71 per minute in slow traffic
- Tolls: about $12 to $13 from the airport to the CBD
In light traffic, a metered fare to the CBD can be in the high $60s. In peak traffic, it can reach $90 or more.
Cost table by suburb
| Destination | Fixed-price fare | Metered range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Melbourne CBD | $82 | $65 to $95 | Traffic drives the meter |
| Carlton | $74 | $60 to $85 | Close to CBD |
| Fitzroy | $77 | $65 to $90 | Similar to Carlton |
| St Kilda | $104 | $85 to $120 | Longer route |
| South Yarra | $110 | $80 to $130 | Uses toll roads |
| Brighton | $116 | $100 to $140 | Southern suburbs |
| Box Hill | $114 | $90 to $130 | Eastern suburbs |
| Doncaster | $110 | $80 to $125 | Variable traffic |
| Brunswick | $71 | $60 to $85 | Close to airport |
| Essendon | $49 | $40 to $65 | Very close |
| Werribee | $111 | $90 to $130 | Long run |
| Sunshine | $56 | $45 to $75 | Western suburbs |
What is included in a fixed-price fare
- CityLink tolls
- Traffic delays and waiting time
- Airport pickup fees
- Booking and processing fees
This is why the fixed-price fare you see is the final fare you pay.
Common extra costs with metered taxis
- Tolls added after the meter
- Booking fees for pre booking
- Undisclosed card payment surcharges
- Airport pickup fees
These extras can turn a lower meter reading into a higher final price.
Card payment surcharges are common across the taxi industry, including fixed-price services. The difference is that our surcharge is always disclosed before payment, while metered taxi surcharges are often revealed only at journey end.
Peak hour impact
The per km rate is the same all day, but traffic slows the trip. That makes metered fares higher during peak times.
Typical peak windows:
- 6:30am to 9:30am inbound to the city
- 4:00pm to 7:00pm outbound from the city
Fixed-price fares stay the same at all times.
How to choose the best price
Fixed-price fare is best if:
- You want certainty
- You are traveling during peak traffic
- You are traveling 20 km or more
- You have multiple passengers and will split the cost
Metered fare is best if:
- You are traveling off peak
- You are going to a nearby suburb
- You are comfortable with price variability
For most travelers, fixed-price fare offers better value and less stress.
FAQ
Do fixed-price fares include tolls?
Yes. Fixed-price fares include CityLink tolls and standard fees.
Are fixed-price fares more expensive?
Sometimes slightly, especially in off peak traffic. The tradeoff is certainty and no surprise charges.
How can I see the exact price for my suburb?
Use the fare tables here:
Final takeaway
Fixed-price fare removes uncertainty. Metered fares can be cheaper in light traffic but cost more in heavy traffic. If you want to know the exact price before you book, use a fixed-price fare and lock it in online.