Uber in San Diego (2025)
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Want to take an Uber in San Diego?
Uber is a convenient way to get around San Diego if you don’t have a car rental and want to explore the city outside of downtown, which is walkable and has San Diego Trolley that has connections to many parts of the city.
In this article, I will give you my advice on how to make the best use of Uber in San Diego and what mistakes to avoid. I’ve taken Uber around San Diego many times, including to and from Mexico border when I went for a day trip to Tijuana. And since I often get asked about it, I decided to share my knowledge with you.
Uber operates throughout most of San Diego, and can get you to many neighborhoods and San Diego Airport (SAN). From downtown San Diego to the scenic coastal areas like La Jolla and Pacific Beach, Uber is a great way to explore different parts of the city.
Although Uber’s reach is pretty extensive, there are some remote or less densely populated areas where availability could be limited. If you happen to be in these areas and need an Uber, you might experience longer wait times due to fewer drivers in your area, so always have a backup plan.
If you want to learn more about how this ride-sharing platform works in America’s Finest City, keep reading.
Is Uber available in San Diego?
Yes, Uber is available in San Diego. You can use Uber to get from San Diego Airport to downtown and to visit different neighborhoods of the city and nearby cities like La Jolla, Del Mar, Solana Beach and further up north.
How much is Uber in San Diego?
The price of Uber in San Diego depends on your location, time of the day and demand. Uber prices also depend on a a destination, and since San Diego tends to be more expensive, you should expect to pay above average for Uber in this city.
Uber at San Diego International Airport
Uber also operates at San Diego International Airport (SAN). The ride from the airport to downtown San Diego is approximately 18 minutes and usually costs $25-27. However, be ready to pay if you travel during the busy time of the day when prices are higher.
How much is Uber from San Diego airport to downtown?
Expect to pay an average of $30 for Uber from San Diego Airport to downtown.
Can I take an Uber to the Mexico border?
Yes, you can take Uber to the U.S.-Mexico border, but you can’t take Uber across the border. Once your Uber drops you off, you will need to get out and cross the border on foot.
What Uber prices in San Diego depend on:
Uber’s fare structure in San Diego, as in other U.S. cities, is affected by several factors:
✔️ Time and distance
Fares are calculated based on the duration and length of the trip. Longer distances and extended travel times result in higher costs.
✔️ Surges
During peak hours or high-demand periods, Uber implements surge pricing, leading to increased fares. This balances the supply of drivers with rider demand.
If you are at the San Diego Airport, or any other place, and prices are higher than normal due to a surge, wait 5-10 minutes, refresh your app and check prices again to see if they become lower. It’s an easy trick that few people know, and if you can wait, you pay a lower price after the surge is over.
✔️ Booking fees and tolls
Additional charges, such as tolls, will be added to the base fare. If you are taking Uber from San Diego north on I-15, you will pay extra as you go through Orange County or LA
PRO TIP: To check what your ride might cost, check Uber’s fare estimator. Enter the pickup location and destination to see the fare before confirming the ride.
Public Transport in San Diego
San Diego has many public transportation options that include MTS trolleys, buses, and a coastal commuter train system that connects the city with areas up north including Oceanside, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, and Sorrento Valley.
1. San Diego Trolley
MTS Trolley is one of the best ways to get around San Diego, because it connects many areas to the city’s downtown. It has blue, orange, and green lines that connect Downtown San Diego to different parts of the city.
Blue line runs from San Ysidro (U.S.-Mexico border) to UTC (University Town Center), while Orange Line connects Downtown San Diego to El Cajon. Green Line connects Downtown to Santee, and passes through Old Town and Mission Valley.
For schedules and ticket prices visit sdmts.com
2. MTS Bus
MTS Bus system has over 90 bus routes covering most of San Diego County. You can choose from Rapid Bus Routes with faster, limited-stop service (Rapid 215 from SDSU to downtown), or express buses that serve long-distance commuters (Route 150 from Escondido to downtown).
3. Coaster train
This train is perfect if you want to travel north from San Diego along the coast, as it connects Oceanside to Downtown San Diego with stops in Carlsbad, Encinitas, Solana Beach, Sorrento Valley, and Old Town.
4. Pacific Surfliner
The Pacific Surfliner is another great option for getting to Solana Beach. But unlike the Coaster, which runs exclusively in San Diego, this Amtrak train runs up the coastline, from San Diego to Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Oakland, California.
5. SPRINTER Light Rail (North County)
Sprinter is a hybrid rail service that connects Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, and Escondido along Highway 78 and and is a good option if you need to get around North County of San Diego. You can also use FLEX, an on-demand service in some parts of San Diego, like North San Diego County. The San Diego Flyer shuttle connects San Diego International Airport to the Old Town Transit Center for free.
6. Ferries
The Coronado Island Ferry connects Downtown San Diego to Coronado Island. The ferry departs every hour, which is perfect if you want to explore the island.
Renting a car in San Diego
If public transport sounds too complicated, renting a car in San Diego is a great option. If you are going to stay in San Diego more than a day and want to explore the city beyond downtown, and visit coastal towns up the coast, rent a car for more flexibility, just make sure that you hotel has a free parking.
Having your own car will allow you not to rely on public transportation and plan your trips however you like. San Diego is the second-largest city in California after Los Angeles, and there are many cool areas you can check out. You can visit scenic areas like Torrey del Pines State Park, hike Potato Chip Rock or Three Sisters Falls, where Uber might not be readily available.
Renting a car at San Diego Airport
San Diego Airport has many car rental companies and you can rent a car as soon as you land. You will need a valid driver’s license, a credit card, and car insurance which you can buy from your car rental company or get it online as you pay for your rental car.
My favorite platform for renting cars in different destinations is DiscoverCars. It’s has hundreds of car rentals listed and all you need to do is set filters and look for the right car.
Exploring San Diego without a car
Uber is a convenient way to get around San Diego, but you can also use the city’s public transport including The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) which operates buses and trolleys to major attractions and neighborhoods. Another option is to rent a bike. San Diego is a bike-friendly city with a year-round mild climate and plenty of sunshine, which makes it a perfect place to ride a bike along the city trails. Mission Bay, Little Italy, and the Gaslamp Quarter are pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily explore them on foot.
How can I explore San Diego without a car?
Exploring San Diego without a car is doable and can be a lot of fun. The city’s public transportation system is reliable, and there are plenty of alternative ways to get around. You can use the San Diego Trolley, which connects popular neighborhoods like Downtown, Old Town, and Little Italy, making it easy to explore the city’s cultural hubs.
Buses serve many parts of San Diego and coastal areas like La Jolla and Pacific Beach. San Diego is walkable in many neighborhoods, especially around Gaslamp Quarter, North Park, and Hillcrest, where you’ll find plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment within walking distance.
Taking Uber to other cities in Southern California
Uber allows riders to request trips from one city to another, provided drivers are willing to accept long-distance fares. However, you will need to take into account increased costs, potential tolls, and the driver’s need to return to their original location. In most cases, it will be cheaper to rent a car than pay for a round-trip trip by Uber.
How to get Uber in San Diego
To get an Uber in San Diego, download the Uber app on your smartphone if you don’t already have it. Open the app and make sure your location services are enabled, so the app can detect your pick-up spot. If you’re at a popular spot like the airport or a busy downtown area, there might be designated ride share area, so keep an eye out for signs.
When you’re ready to request a ride, enter your destination and review the available ride options – like UberX for standard rides or Uber Comfort. You’ll see an estimated fare and wait time before confirming the ride. Once your driver is on the way, you can track their location on the app, and you’ll also receive their name, car make, and license plate for easy identification.
Be ready at your pickup location when your driver arrives. Remember that they may not be able to wait long in busy areas. If you’re getting picked up from the airport, follow any specific airport guidelines for rideshares, as San Diego International Airport has designated areas for this purpose.
Safety tips for taking Uber in San Diego
✔️ Get into the right car – Check that the car make, model and license plate match what’s shown in the Uber app before you get in the vehicle.
✔️ Confirm the driver’s name – Ask “Who are you picking up?” Or ask the driver’s name before you get in.
✔️ Share your trip – For extra security, you can use the “Share My Trip” feature to send ride details to someone you know, so they can track your location.
✔️ Check the driver’s rating – If a driver has very low ratings, it’s a good idea to cancel your trip and request another ride. You don’t want to take a chance with someone who has poor rating, especially if you travel by yourself.
✔️ Don’t travel at night – If traveling late, sit in the back seat and stay alert. Avoid falling asleep or giving your driver too much personal information. You can always have a conversation, but try to keep your topics neutral.
✔️ Always follow the route – As your drive is moving along, keep an eye on the route in the Uber app or use Google Maps to make sure the driver is going the correct way.
✔️ Don’t pay in cash – Uber handles transactions in-app, so you don’t need to pay cash, however, you can leave a cash tip for your driver, if they did a good job, and you want to show some appreciation. Uber takes a portion of all earnings, and Uber drivers also have to pay taxes on top of that.
End your ride if you don’t feel safe If you ever feel unsafe, you can end the ride early in a well-lit, public area, and look for another type of transportation or get another Uber.
Where to stay in San Diego:
La Valencia Hotel: Known for its Mediterranean style and ocean views, this La Jolla hotel offers beautiful rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, with nearby beaches and village shops.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT LA VALENCIA HOTEL
Hotel del Coronado: A historic beachfront hotel in Coronado, known for its Victorian architecture and luxurious amenities. It has hosted presidents, royalty, and celebrities, offering a timeless seaside resort experience.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT HOTEL DEL CORONADO
Hotel Point Loma: A budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms, situated near local attractions and dining options.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT HOTEL POINT LOMA
Uber in San Diego: FAQs
Does Uber work in San Diego?
Yes, Uber operates in San Diego, offering a convenient transportation option for both residents and visitors.
Is Uber a good way to get around San Diego?
Yes, Uber is a great way to get around San Diego. It’s reliable and has better rates than local taxis, which usually charge premium prices for the same service and can take more time to show up.
Can I take an Uber to San Diego airport?
Yes, Uber provides services to and from San Diego International Airport, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
Uber in San Diego: Final word
Uber is a great way to get around san Diego, and visit neighborhoods that might be tough to reach by public transportation. Whether traveling to and from the airport, exploring different neighborhoods, or exploring the city without a personal vehicle, Uber is a flexible option that allows you to avoid relying on public transportation.
