Metro vs Bus at San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Verdict
Take Metro — roughly equivalent — pick on convenience.
Side by side
| Factor | Metro | Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Option | SamTrans bus | SamTrans bus |
| Cost | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| Journey | 60+ min | 60+ min |
| Wait | Every 30 min | Every 30 min |
| Payment | Card & Cash | Card & Cash |
| Locals recommend |
Metro — SamTrans bus
- ✓ Cheapest
- ! Slow
Bus — SamTrans bus
- ✓ Cheapest
- ! Slow
Scams to watch either way
- Town car curbside touts
Drivers offering 'town car' rides at flat $120+ rates outside arrivals.
Avoid: Use the official taxi rank, Uber/Lyft from the garage, or BART.
Frequently asked
Q.Metro or Bus from SFO — which is better?
Metro — roughly equivalent — pick on convenience. SamTrans bus: $2.50, 60+ min.
Q.How much is Metro from San Francisco International Airport?
$2.50 typical. Journey 60+ min, wait Every 30 min. Payment: Card & Cash.
Q.How much is Bus from San Francisco International Airport?
$2.50 typical. Journey 60+ min, wait Every 30 min. Payment: Card & Cash.
Q.What should I watch for on arrival at SFO?
Town car curbside touts: Drivers offering 'town car' rides at flat $120+ rates outside arrivals. — Use the official taxi rank, Uber/Lyft from the garage, or BART.
FULL ARRIVAL PLAYBOOK
San Francisco International Airport airport exit guide Fare tiers, first-30-minute checklist, all transport options ranked, and every reported scam.