Originally Answered: Are the Black Taxis in London more expensive than other cabs? As a rule, yes, the Black Taxis will charge more since they are licensed to pick up fares, the drivers are vetted and the taxis have to be clean and in good road condition. I'm an occasional visitor to London and usually tip cabs 15-20%.

In 2026, London's iconic black cabs are generally more expensive than rideshare services like Uber, particularly for longer journeys where metered tariffs can climb quickly. Black cabs operate on a regulated "metered" system that accounts for both distance and time, meaning heavy traffic can significantly inflate the final price. However, they offer distinct advantages: they can use designated bus lanes, often bypassing the gridlock that slows down Ubers, and they do not use "surge pricing." For short, spontaneous trips in Central London, a black cab hailed on the street can sometimes be price-competitive and faster. Additionally, many travelers find the "Knowledge"-certified drivers and the spacious, purpose-built vehicles worth the premium for the reliability and "London experience" they provide.