Getting Around Metairie Without Driving
Metairie is a sprawling suburb with busy commercial corridors like Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Causeway Boulevard, and Clearview Parkway. While many residents own cars, there are countless moments when a taxi or ride service makes more sense: a 6 a.m. flight out of Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, a night out in the French Quarter, a medical appointment after a procedure, or a business visitor staying near Lakeside Shopping Center.
The local market includes traditional cab companies with decades of history, app-based ride-hailing platforms, and premium chauffeur services. Each offers distinct advantages in price, reliability, and comfort. Below are ten of the best options serving Metairie today.
The Top 10 Taxi Services in Metairie
1. United Cab
United Cab is one of the oldest and largest taxi companies in the New Orleans metro area, with a history stretching back nearly a century. Its large fleet covers Metairie, Kenner, and New Orleans, and it is especially dependable for airport trips and dispatch during busy festival weekends. Riders can book by phone or app, and drivers know the region intimately.
2. Metry Cab
As the name suggests, Metry Cab is rooted in Metairie and focuses on serving Jefferson Parish neighborhoods. Locals appreciate its familiarity with suburban streets, consistent airport service, and friendly drivers. It is a practical choice for residents who prefer supporting a hometown business.
3. Checker Yellow Cabs
Checker Yellow Cabs is another long-established name in the metro, offering metered rides around the clock. Its recognizable vehicles are common at hotels and the airport, and the company is a reliable fallback when app-based surge pricing spikes during major events.
4. Uber
Uber has become a default choice for many Metairie residents thanks to fast pickups, upfront pricing, and a range of vehicle classes from economy to premium SUVs. Its scheduling feature is useful for early-morning airport departures, and the app's safety tools such as trip sharing add peace of mind.
5. Lyft
Lyft offers a similar experience with a reputation for friendly drivers and competitive pricing. Many riders keep both Uber and Lyft installed to compare fares, especially during Mardi Gras season and Saints game days when demand surges across the region.
6. Curb
Curb connects riders with licensed taxi companies through a modern app, combining the reliability of professional cab drivers with the convenience of digital booking and payment. It is a smart option for those who prefer licensed taxis but want app-level convenience.
7. Airport Shuttle New Orleans
For travelers heading to or from the airport, Airport Shuttle New Orleans offers shared-ride and private transfer service. Shared shuttles can be a budget-friendly choice for solo travelers, while families and groups often book private vans with room for luggage.
8. Carey
Carey is a global chauffeured transportation provider that serves corporate clients and travelers seeking a polished experience. Professional chauffeurs, late-model sedans, and meet-and-greet service make it popular for executives visiting regional offices in Metairie.
9. Empire CLS
Empire CLS provides luxury car service through an extensive affiliate network. Its strengths include punctuality, flight tracking, and consistent service standards, which matter for business travelers and special occasions such as weddings or anniversary dinners.
10. Blacklane
Blacklane offers app-based chauffeur bookings with all-inclusive pricing, so riders know the full cost in advance. It is a good middle ground between standard ride-hailing and traditional limousine service, particularly for airport transfers.
How to Choose the Best Ride Option
Consider timing first. For trips during peak demand, such as festival weekends or after large events at the Superdome, traditional taxis may offer more predictable pricing than surge-based apps. For off-peak trips, ride-hailing is often fastest.
Next, think about comfort and purpose. A quick ride to a restaurant on Metairie Road might call for an economy app ride, while an important client pickup justifies a chauffeured sedan. Travelers with lots of luggage or child car seats should request larger vehicles in advance.
Safety and licensing also matter. Licensed taxis and established apps conduct driver screening and maintain insurance. Always confirm the vehicle and driver details before getting in, and share your trip status with a friend when riding late at night.
Trends in Local Transportation
The Metairie ride market continues to evolve. Taxi companies have adopted apps and digital payments to compete with ride-hailing, while app platforms have added scheduled rides, accessible vehicles, and teen accounts. Electric and hybrid vehicles are becoming more common, reducing fuel costs and emissions. Airport ground transportation has also become more organized, with designated pickup zones that make connections smoother. Accessibility is improving as well, with more wheelchair-accessible vehicles available on request for riders who need them.
Final Thoughts
Metairie offers a healthy mix of traditional cab companies, ride-hailing apps, and premium chauffeur services. Keeping two or three trusted options on hand ensures you always have a reliable ride, whether you are catching an early flight, heading downtown for dinner, or welcoming visitors to the Northshore and beyond.