What a Ride from Phoenix Sky Harbor to Tempe Costs
About This Route
Tempe is the closest major destination to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport — about 5 miles east, home to Arizona State University, Tempe Town Lake, and Mill Avenue's lively bar and restaurant scene. Rideshare fares are among the lowest you'll find from any major US airport, typically running $21-$29 for the 10-15 minute trip. Even better, the Valley Metro light rail connects Sky Harbor directly to Tempe for $2, making this one of the most affordable airport-to-destination trips in the country.
Surge Pricing Alert
ASU football Saturdays, graduation weekends in May and December, and Innings Festival in late winter bring the only real surge here. Even then the estimate tops out around $58, and the $2 light rail never surges at all.
Travel Tips
- 01The Valley Metro light rail stops at the 44th Street/Washington PHX station, connected to terminals via the free Sky Train. Ride the light rail east to Tempe — it's 2-3 stops and takes about 12 minutes for just $2.
- 02If heading to ASU's main campus, get off the light rail at Veterans Way/College Avenue station. You'll be steps from campus.
- 03Mill Avenue and Tempe Town Lake are walkable from the light rail's Mill Avenue/3rd Street station — no rideshare needed if you're traveling light.
- 04Tempe is so close to the airport that even during busy hours, UberX usually stays in the $21-$29 range. This is one trip where surge stings less.
- Travel time
- 10-15 minutes by car, 12-18 minutes by light rail
- Best time to travel
- Almost any time works due to the short distance. Avoid the I-10/Loop 202 interchange during weekday rush hours (4-6 PM) if driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Uber cost from PHX to Tempe?
UberX from Phoenix Sky Harbor to Tempe costs about $21-$29. The short 5-mile distance keeps fares low, making it one of the cheapest airport rideshare trips in the US.
Can I take the light rail from PHX to Tempe?
Yes! The Valley Metro light rail connects Sky Harbor to Tempe in about 12-18 minutes for $2. Take the free PHX Sky Train to the 44th Street station, then ride the light rail east to your Tempe stop.
How far is Tempe from Phoenix Airport?
Tempe is about 5 miles east of Sky Harbor — one of the closest major destinations to any US airport. The drive takes 10-15 minutes, and you can also take the light rail directly.