How to get from Los Angeles International to Downtown LA
High confidenceChecked May 2026
Use the LAX-it lot for Uber/Lyft/taxi — pickup is no longer at the curb. Metro K Line + transfers also reaches DTLA / Hollywood for ~$1.75.
Best options
Best overall
Uber or Lyft from the LAX-it lot (free shuttle from the terminals).
Cheapest safe
Metro K Line + Expo/Red Line — slow but ~$1.75.
Best at night
LAX-it operates 24/7; Metro is more limited.
With luggage / kids
Uber/Lyft or pre-booked car service.
Taxi fare
Metered taxi roughly $50–$85 to Downtown LA plus surcharges. Fares vary with traffic.
Ride-hailing
Uber and Lyft only pick up from LAX-it (free terminal shuttle).
available
Public transport
Metro K Line + transfers; FlyAway bus (Union Station).
Compare your options — LAX → Downtown LA
Distance ~25 km, typical journey 30–75 min.
| Option | Typical fare | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Public transport | Metro K Line + transfers; FlyAway bus (Union Station). | Cheapest safe option |
| Official taxi | Metered taxi roughly $50–$85 to Downtown LA plus surcharges. Fares vary with traffic. | Late arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Ride-hailing | Uber and Lyft only pick up from LAX-it (free terminal shuttle). | available |
After landing — step by step
- 1Take the free LAX-it shuttle from your terminal
- 2Match to your driver in-app at LAX-it
Scam warnings
Unauthorized 'town car' offers near the curb
Avoid this
- • Curbside 'limo' offers
- • Trying to summon Uber to the terminal — it's not allowed
Frequently asked
Q.How much is a taxi from Los Angeles International to Downtown LA?
Metered taxi roughly $50–$85 to Downtown LA plus surcharges. Fares vary with traffic.. Always confirm the fare or that the meter is on before pulling away. Watch for: Unauthorized 'town car' offers near the curb.
Q.What is the cheapest safe way from LAX to Downtown LA?
Metro K Line + Expo/Red Line — slow but ~$1.75.
Q.Does Uber or ride-hailing work at Los Angeles International?
Uber and Lyft only pick up from LAX-it (free terminal shuttle).
Q.What's the best way from LAX to Downtown LA at night?
LAX-it operates 24/7; Metro is more limited.
Q.What scams should I watch for going from LAX to Downtown LA?
Top reported: Unauthorized 'town car' offers near the curb. Use the official taxi rank, never accept a fare from someone approaching you in arrivals.
SOURCES