Seattle Airport to Bellevue Ride Prices
Airport arrivals, rush hour, bad weather, and events regularly trigger 2–3x surge pricing on this route.
*On most bookings. See provider terms.
About This Route
Bellevue is the largest city on Seattle's Eastside, home to major tech campuses for Meta, Microsoft (nearby Redmond), T-Mobile, and a booming downtown of its own with high-rise hotels and The Bravern shopping district. SeaTac Airport is about 18 miles southwest of Bellevue, and the ride takes 25-45 minutes via I-405 or the I-5/I-90 interchange. Rideshare fares run $40-$65, reflecting the cross-lake distance. The Sound Transit 2 Line light rail extension now connects the Eastside, though a transfer at International District station is needed from the airport line.
Surge Pricing Alert
Bellevue-bound rides surge during weekday evening rush (4-7 PM) when Eastside commuter demand peaks, and during PAX West gaming convention in Seattle (Labor Day weekend). Fares can jump 1.5-2x. Consider taking the light rail to Bellevue if traveling during peak hours.
Travel Tips
- 1I-405 is the most direct route from SeaTac to Bellevue, but it's also one of the most congested highways in the region during rush hours (3-7 PM). The I-5 North to I-90 East route is sometimes faster.
- 2The Sound Transit Link 1 Line from SEA connects to the 2 Line at International District/Chinatown station for service to Bellevue. Total travel time is about 55-65 minutes for under $6.
- 3If you're heading to Microsoft campus in Redmond, continue on the 2 Line past Bellevue — it extends to Redmond Technology station.
- 4Express toll lanes (ETL) on I-405 can save time during rush hour, but some rideshare drivers avoid them. You can request the toll lane route — expect $3-$8 in tolls added to your fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an Uber cost from SeaTac to Bellevue?
UberX from SeaTac Airport to Bellevue typically costs $40-$65. The 18-mile trip crosses Lake Washington via I-405 or I-90 and takes 25-45 minutes depending on traffic. Rush hour fares tend toward the higher end.
Can I take the light rail from SeaTac to Bellevue?
Yes. Take the Link 1 Line from SEA to International District/Chinatown station, then transfer to the 2 Line eastbound to Bellevue. The total trip takes about 55-65 minutes and costs under $6.
Should I stay in Bellevue or Seattle when visiting the area?
If you're visiting tech companies on the Eastside (Microsoft, Meta, T-Mobile), Bellevue saves commute time. For tourism (Pike Place, Space Needle, Capitol Hill), Seattle is better. Both are accessible from SeaTac — Bellevue is slightly farther and pricier by rideshare.