Getting from LAX to Universal Studios

Q: How much does taxi cost from LAX to Universal Studios?

The average taxi fare to cover the distance from LAX to Universal Studios is $80 (€68.30) for up to four passengers. This doesn’t include tips, tolls, or surcharges, and since a taximeter is used, heavy traffic can cause the price to increase. For a set fare you can rely on and that won’t be impacted by traffic conditions, you can pre-book your trip with Welcome Pickups.

One of the most exciting destinations in Los Angeles is the Universal Studios amusement park, located 43 kilometers away in the heart of Hollywood.

When planning your transportation from LAX to Universal Studios, you have three main options to choose from. The quickest and smoothest way is with a Los Angeles Airport taxi or a private Los Angeles Airport transfer, where you can expect a hassle-free 30-minute drive. Note that a private transfer has the advantage of a fixed fare price.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more budget-friendly option and have time to spare, you can opt for a combined bus and metro trip, which will take you at least 1 hour and 15 minutes and requires a transfer through the city center.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Los Angeles at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€68.30	30min	24/7
Shuttle + Metro	€24.90	75min	05:40–00:11
Welcome Airport Transfer	€111	30min	24/7

How to get from LAX to Universal Studios by taxi

If you value ease and comfort when traveling, a taxi from LAX to Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most convenient choices you can make. Los Angeles Airport taxis are available 24/7 and can accommodate up to four passengers, each with a standard-sized suitcase. Rides are metered, and the journey typically takes just 30 minutes in light traffic.

How much is a taxi from LAX to Universal Studios?

The average cost of a taxi from LAX to Universal Studios is $80 (€68.30) for up to four passengers. Since Los Angeles taxis use a taximeter to calculate their fares, the price can vary depending on the exact distance and duration of the journey. Note that tolls, an airport surcharge of $4 (€3.40), and tips will be added on top.

If you’d prefer to know the cost of your ride upfront, you can book your airport transfer in advance with Welcome Pickups and receive a competitive fixed fare price.

Cost

$80 (€68.30)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis at Los Angeles (LAX) Airport are available 24/7.

Where do I get a taxi from?

Around nine different taxi companies can be found at three different locations at LAX; you will need to make your way to the one closest to the terminal you arrive at:

From Terminal 1: Walk and follow the signs to the LAX-it, or take a free shuttle from the Lower/Arrivals Level at the inner curb outside of baggage claim areas, under the green signs.
From Terminals 2 and 3: Taxis can be found between the two terminals inside Parking Structure 3.
From Terminals 7 and 8: Taxis can be found right outside the terminal, in front of the Arrivals Hall.

Convenience

Traveling from LAX to Universal Studios by taxi is quick and far more comfortable than public transport, making this a very convenient transport option. You can travel in complete privacy, knowing that your travel companions and personal belongings are safe and secure throughout the trip, making this ideal for families or those with bulky or heavy luggage.

For a competitive fixed rate and peace of mind, consider booking a private transfer in advance instead.

Timetables

LAX Airport

Ground Transportation Map

Editor’s Note

Los Angeles Airport is huge, so be prepared to search for the taxi stand and wait in line.

Useful Tips

Tipping (commonly 15-20%) in LA is customary, so make sure you have cash ready.

Your driver should reset the taximeter before you begin your journey.

Authorized taxis operating at the airport must have the official City of Los Angeles Taxicab Seal on display.

Getting from LAX to Universal Studios by shuttle and metro

While a combined shuttle and metro journey is the cheapest way to get from LAX Airport to Universal Studios in Hollywood, it is also the slowest and least convenient, with a travel time of around 1 hour and 15 minutes, excluding time spent waiting.

If you wish to use this option, you’ll need to catch the LAX FlyAway shuttle to Union Station/Patsaouras Bus Plaza, where you can transfer to the Metro B Line towards North Hollywood Station, disembarking at Universal / Studio City Station. Both the bus and the metro take around 30 minutes each.

Note that from there it’s still a 15-minute walk to the Universal Studios park, or you can take one of the free shuttles to reach the front gate. This service runs both ways every 10-15 minutes, seven days a week, from 07:00 until two hours after the park closes.

How much is the metro and shuttle from LAX to Universal Studios?

The total cost from LAX Airport to Universal Studios by bus and metro is $14.50 (€12.40) per passenger. A one-way fare on the FlyAway is $12.75 (€10.90), and the Metro Rail costs $1.75 (€1.50). Shuttle bus tickets can be bought online in advance, or on the day by tapping on with a credit or debit card.

On the other hand, the Metro must be paid for using a TAP card, as Metro tokens are no longer accepted. A reusable TAP card costs $2 (€1.70), on top of the regular ride fare.

To pay the fare, you can buy a TAP card on the TAP app, taptogo.net, at a TAP vendor, or at any Metro station. You can then top this up with credit using any of these methods, or onboard the Metro with a credit/debit card or cash.

Cost

$14.50 (€12.40)

Trip Duration

1 Hr. 15 Min.

The wait time between shuttle services is 30 minutes. The metro runs every 7-12 minutes during the day, and every 20 minutes late at night.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The FlyAway shuttle operates daily between 05:40 and 01:10, all year round. The B-Line Metro runs between 04:10-00:11.

Where do I get the bus from?

FlyAway buses depart from the Lower/Arrivals Level in front of each terminal near the blue columns.

Convenience

Since there isn’t a direct LAX shuttle to Universal Studios, this option requires a transfer through the city center, which can be stressful and overwhelming, as the station is generally very crowded. Moreover, on weekends, timetables are slightly different, and the trip will likely take longer and may even require additional transfers.

If you’re traveling with lots of luggage items or with kids in tow, you’d be much better off arranging a fast and direct ride with a private transfer company like Welcome.

Timetables

Flyaway Bus Schedule

LAX – Union Station

Metro Timetables

Union Station – Universal Studios

Editor’s Note

A good option for those on a tight budget who don't mind a crowd and have light luggage.

Useful Tips

Your metro ticket is valid for up to 2 hours. You can transfer from one service to another during this time.

To avoid lengthy wait time, check the timetable before traveling, especially when arriving late at night when services are less frequent.

When using your TAP card for additional journeys, the fare is capped at $5 (€4.30) a day.

There are other combined bus and metro routes available, but this is the most convenient.

Keep an eye on your possessions at Union Station.

Remember to buy and top up a TAP card before you ride the Metro. TAP cards are reusable, so keep yours safe.

How to get from LAX to Universal Studios Hollywood by private transfer?

For an elevated travel experience that combines comfort and convenience, the best transport option from LAX to Universal Studios is a private transfer. When you book with a company like Welcome, you’ll receive a fully personalized Los Angeles Airport transfer that will drop you right at the entrance to the park, so you don’t have to walk with your luggage.

Additional perks include a friendly, professional driver hand-picked for their knowledge of the city, a competitive set rate fare, guaranteed on-time pickups, and a meet-and-greet service at the airport.

How much is an LAX to Universal Studios private transfer?

When you opt for a private transfer with Welcome Pickups, you’ll know exactly how much your transfer costs at the time of booking, and the payment can be taken right away, so there’s no messing about with ATMs on arrival.

For up to 3 passengers, the trip from LAX Airport will cost $129.20 (€111). For 6 passengers in an SUV, the cost rises to $154.90 (€133), or $284.10 (€244) for 10-12 passengers in a spacious minivan.

You’ll receive an upfront quote at the time of booking, inclusive of all charges. To complete the booking, you just need to enter a few personal details and your flight information.

Cost

$129.20 (€111)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*A vehicle will be waiting on arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from Los Angeles International Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Pre-booking a taxi helps you to save time and energy, so you can meet your driver right after landing at Los Angeles Airport. No need to waste time searching for a taxi or catching the LAX-it shuttle, your driver will be waiting in the Arrivals Hall holding a sign with your name, ready to escort you and any traveling companions to your vehicle.

Convenience

A Los Angeles Airport transfer can provide a reliable and safe transfer option, especially for families with little ones who don’t want to wait around or stress about having enough luggage space, or business travelers who rely on not being held up or delayed. Whatever your circumstances, as a fully customizable service, private transfers can be catered to suit your needs.

Editor’s Note

A private transfer is best for those who want to avoid wasting time searching for a taxi and instead be on their way to the park as soon as possible, maximizing time spent on rides and exploring the different areas of the park.

Useful Tips

Your driver will receive live status updates on any changes to your scheduled arrival so that they can adjust the pickup time accordingly.

You can make any customizations to your booking, such as upgrading to a minivan or requesting a baby seat, either at the time of booking or through the Welcome app.

Vehicle sizes are based on passengers traveling with a standard-sized suitcase or bag each.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Los angeles. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€111.0

NIGHTTIME

€133.0

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

Is there a shuttle from LAX Airport to Universal Studios?

There isn’t a direct shuttle from LAX to Universal Studios, but it’s still possible to travel via public transport. First, take the FlyAway shuttle to Downtown and transfer at Union Station to the B-Line Metro.

How long does it take to get from Universal to LAX?

The LAX to Universal Studios distance is around 43 km, which takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour and 10 minutes to cover by car, and up to 1.5 hours to cover when you opt for a combined shuttle bus and metro journey.

How much does taxi cost from LAX to Universal Studios?

The average taxi fare to cover the distance from LAX to Universal Studios is $80 (€68.30) for up to four passengers. This doesn’t include tips, tolls, or surcharges, and since a taximeter is used, heavy traffic can cause the price to increase.

For a set fare you can rely on and that won’t be impacted by traffic conditions, you can pre-book your trip with Welcome Pickups.

How far is LAX to Universal Studios?

The distance from LAX to Universal Studios Hollywood is around 43 kilometers, which can be covered by car in 30 to 70 minutes.

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How to get from LAX to Universal Studios by taxi

How much is a taxi from LAX to Universal Studios?

$80 (€68.30)

30 Min.

Taxis at Los Angeles (LAX) Airport are available 24/7.

Where do I get a taxi from?

Convenience

Timetables

LAX Airport

Ground Transportation Map

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Getting from LAX to Universal Studios by shuttle and metro

How much is the metro and shuttle from LAX to Universal Studios?

$14.50 (€12.40)

1 Hr. 15 Min.

The FlyAway shuttle operates daily between 05:40 and 01:10, all year round. The B-Line Metro runs between 04:10-00:11.

Where do I get the bus from?

Convenience

Timetables

Flyaway Bus Schedule

LAX – Union Station

Metro Timetables

Union Station – Universal Studios

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from LAX to Universal Studios Hollywood by private transfer?

How much is an LAX to Universal Studios private transfer?

$129.20 (€111)

30 Min.

Private transfers can be arranged 24/7 from Los Angeles International Airport.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

Is there a shuttle from LAX Airport to Universal Studios?

How long does it take to get from Universal to LAX?

How much does taxi cost from LAX to Universal Studios?

How far is LAX to Universal Studios?

The best way to arrive in Los Angeles

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