How do I book a Tempe to Phoenix shuttle?

You can book online 24/7 through the website or by phone.

Does the service offer door-to-door pickup and drop-off?

Yes, we provide door-to-door service to your specified address in Tempe and Phoenix.

What's the difference between shared and private rides?

Rides are shared by default. Private/no-sharing is available as a paid add-on at booking.

How much luggage can I bring on the shuttle?

Reasonable luggage is included in your fare. Oversized or extra items should be noted at booking.

How long is the shuttle ride from Tempe to Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX)?

Tempe is roughly 8 to 16 miles from PHX, so a door-to-door shuttle typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic and your exact pickup point.

Tempe to Phoenix Shuttle – $76 One-Way

Tempe to Phoenix Airport Shuttle

Round Trips Save You 10%

How is Your Service Different?

Any Address - We pick you up at your home, hotel or PHX.
Better - most rides are non-stop in a nice car.
Flexible - we pick you up on your schedule 24/7.
Safer - we don't leave you at a bus stop and we have better drivers.
Faster - most rides take half the time and it's just you in the vehicle.
More Convenient - door to door and no need to arrange or pay for other companies to get home.
Affordable - once you add it all up, it's the same price.

Our Daily Schedule

What is your daily schedule?

We pick you up on your schedule 24/7. Our professional drivers are normally 5-10 minutes early at your home, or right on time at Sky Harbor. You get to pick the time we pick you up.

What is my pickup time at the airport?

We normally pick you up 30 minutes after your plane lands for domestic flights, or 45 minutes after for international flights.

What happens if my flight is delayed?

Pickup times automatically adjust to 30 minutes after you land if your flight is delayed for domestic flights, or 45 minutes after you land for international flights.

What happens if my flight arrives early?

Call or send us a text if you want us to pick you up early, and we will let your driver know that you are ready to be picked up. Otherwise, we will pick you up at the scheduled time on your reservation.

How soon should I make a reservation?

Although there is no set rule that prevents you from booking a Phoenix to Tempe Shuttle last minute, it's a good idea to make your reservation as soon as possible to make sure a driver is available and prevent any delays.

How long does it take to go from Phoenix or Tempe?

Trips to and from Tempe in normal traffic are about 10 minutes versus about 30 minutes on the bus or a shuttle with a bunch of people. Rush hour will normally add 15-45 minutes (30 minutes on the average).

What time should I be picked up?

2 hours before is normally enough time. PHX recommends you to be there 2 hours early to get through security and to your plane. Boarding usually starts 30 minutes before your plane takes off. However, one hour and thirty minutes is normally enough time. So if the drive from Tempe to Phoenix takes about 10 minutes, then 2 hours before your flight takes off is normally good.

Our Better Drivers

Who are your drivers?

Most of our drivers have been driving professionally with the public for more than 10 years. They have excellent people skills and are usually very knowledgeable about the area (what to do, best restaurants, history and attractions). Some of our drivers are also professional tour guides that go to the Grand Canyon, Tempe, Phoenix, and many other destinations.

We have high standards for our drivers including safety, reliability and customer service. They are very helpful with bags. They get the door for you. All drivers go through extensive background checks with Sky Harbor in order to pick up passengers.

We also train them by driving them through PHX, explaining all the rules, and showing them where to pick people up and drop people off.

Our Great Company

With more than 100,000 customers and more than 8 years in business, Airport Shuttle of Phoenix owns Tempe to Phoenix Shuttle, and has drivers all over the State of Arizona. Our main office is 5 minutes from PHX in Phoenix, AZ.

Main Office

4600 E Washington St Suite 300

Phoenix, AZ 85034

2018 to 2023 Travel and Hospitality Award Winner

Testimonials and Reviews

Click here to read lots of excellent reviews from real customers.

Traveling from Tempe, AZ to Phoenix, AZ: Overview

Travel between Tempe and Phoenix is a common commute for residents, students, and visitors exploring the metropolitan area of Maricopa County. The two cities share a border, and numerous transportation options connect downtown Tempe with central Phoenix. This guide consolidates publicly available information from MapQuest, DrivingDirections.com, and Rome2Rio to provide a clear, fact‑based overview of driving distances, transit routes, travel times, and practical tips for making the trip efficiently.

Driving Directions and Distance

According to MapQuest, the driving distance from Tempe (ZIP 85281) to Phoenix (ZIP 85003) is approximately 22 miles (35 kilometers). The modeled route follows the AZ‑202 Loop (also known as the Red Mountain Freeway) eastbound, then merges onto East Washington Street toward downtown Phoenix. MapQuest’s reference driving time for this route is about 55 minutes under typical traffic conditions, assuming a steady speed of roughly 37 mph (60 km/h). The same source notes that the straight‑line distance between the two points is about 16 miles (25 km), indicating that the road network adds roughly six miles of travel due to the layout of highways and surface streets.

DrivingDirections.com echoes these figures, describing the route as a short trip that primarily uses major roads and highways. The site also provides an estimate of fuel consumption for the journey, noting that a typical passenger vehicle would use roughly 0.8 gallons (2.9 liters) of gasoline to cover the distance, though actual usage varies with vehicle efficiency, driving style, and traffic congestion.

Both sources emphasize that the travel time estimate does not include scheduled stops, potential delays from accidents, or peak‑hour slowdowns. Travelers should therefore allow additional time during rush periods (generally 7 – 9 am and 4 – 6 pm on weekdays) when traffic on the AZ‑202 Loop and East Washington Street can increase significantly.

Public Transit Options

Valley Metro operates several bus and tram services that link Tempe and Phoenix without requiring a personal vehicle. Rome2Rio outlines the most economical public‑transit combination as taking Valley Metro Line 45 bus from the stop at Broadway Road & McClintock Drive, transferring to Line 19 bus at 19th Avenue & Broadway Road, and arriving at 19th Avenue & Culver Street in Phoenix. The total journey time for this bus‑only route is approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes, including wait times for transfers.

For those preferring rail‑like service, Valley Metro’s tram (formerly known as the Metro Light Rail) runs from the McClintock Drive/Apache Boulevard station in Tempe to the Downtown Phoenix Hub/Washington Avenue station. According to Rome2Rio, the tram ride lasts about 14 minutes, with trams departing roughly every 20 minutes during service hours. This option provides a direct, traffic‑free connection between the two cities’ central districts.

Additional bus routes are available for specific origins and destinations. For example, a Valley Metro bus traveling from Broadway Road & McClintock Drive to 19th Avenue & Broadway Road takes roughly 43 minutes, with buses departing every 30 minutes. The subsequent leg from 19th Avenue & Broadway Road to 19th Avenue & Culver Street averages 21 minutes, also with a 30‑minute frequency. These schedules allow riders to plan connections with minimal waiting, though actual wait times can vary based on real‑time service conditions.

All Valley Metro services are operated by the regional transit authority, which can be contacted at +1 (602) 253‑5000 for customer inquiries. The agency’s website provides up‑to‑date timetables, service alerts, and fare information.

Ride‑Share, Taxi, and Alternative Modes

For travelers who prioritize speed over cost, a taxi or ride‑share vehicle offers the quickest link between Tempe and Phoenix. Rome2Rio notes that a typical taxi trip can be completed in approximately 18 minutes under free‑flowing traffic conditions. Travel times may increase during peak congestion, roadwork, or adverse weather.

Ride‑share platforms (such as Uber and Lyft) operate throughout the metropolitan area and generally provide comparable travel times to taxis, with pricing that fluctuates based on demand, vehicle type, and route. Both services allow users to request a vehicle via smartphone app and track the vehicle’s progress in real time.

Cycling is another option for short segments of the corridor, particularly along the paved paths that parallel the AZ‑202 Loop and the Salt River. However, the full distance between the two city centers involves navigating mixed‑traffic streets and may not be suitable for all cyclists, especially during high‑traffic periods.

Walking the entire route is impractical due to the distance and limited pedestrian infrastructure on certain highway segments; nevertheless, many neighborhoods in Tempe and Phoenix feature walkable districts, shaded sidewalks, and crosswalks that facilitate short trips to nearby transit stops.

Comparison of Travel Modes

Mode	Estimated Travel Time*	Key Notes
Personal Vehicle (via AZ‑202 Loop & E Washington St)	≈ 55 minutes	Subject to traffic variability; fuel use estimated at 0.8 gal (2.9 L) for a typical sedan.
Valley Metro Tram (McClintock/Apache to Downtown Phx Hub)	≈ 14 minutes	Operates every ~20 minutes; no road‑traffic delays.
Valley Metro Bus Combination (Line 45 + Line 19)	≈ 1 hour 39 minutes	Low‑cost option; transfers at 19th Ave & Broadway Rd.
Taxi / Ride‑Share	≈ 18 minutes (free‑flow)	Fastest door‑to‑door service; travel time rises with congestion.
Cycling (mixed‑use paths & streets)	Variable (≈ 1 hour + depending on route)	Depends on fitness level, route choice, and traffic conditions.

*Travel times are based on publicly available estimates from MapQuest, DrivingDirections.com, and Rome2Rio under typical conditions; actual durations may differ.

Points of Interest Along the Corridor

While the primary purpose of many trips between Tempe and Phoenix is commuting, the route passes several notable landmarks and recreational areas that travelers may wish to explore.

Encanto Park: Located just west of downtown Phoenix, Encanto Park covers 222 acres and features a lagoon, golf course, amusement rides, and walking paths. The park is accessible from East Washington Street and offers a green oasis amid the urban setting.
Legend City Site: Historically, the Legend City amusement park operated from 1963 to 1983 on land that straddled the Tempe‑Phoenix boundary. Although the park has been demolished, the area remains a point of local historical interest, with occasional community events referencing its legacy.
Arizona State University (ASU) Campus: The main ASU campus in Tempe sits near the northern edge of the city, close to the Broadway Road & McClintock Drive transit hub. The campus contributes significantly to Tempe’s cultural and economic life.
Salt River Trail: A multi‑use path that runs parallel to the Salt River, providing scenic views and connections to both Tempe and Phoenix neighborhoods. The trail is popular with cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians.
Downtown Phoenix Core: Upon arriving via the Valley Metro tram or East Washington Street, visitors reach the downtown district, which includes the Phoenix Convention Center, Chase Field, and numerous dining and entertainment venues.

These attractions are all reachable via the transit options described above, allowing travelers to combine a commute with a brief sightseeing outing.

Travel Tips and Practical Considerations

To ensure a smooth journey between Tempe and Phoenix, consider the following recommendations, which are based on the operational characteristics of the available modes:

Check real‑time traffic reports before departing, especially if traveling during weekday rush hours. Apps such as Google Maps or Waze can provide live updates on congestion along the AZ‑202 Loop and East Washington Street.
If using Valley Metro services, verify the latest timetables on the agency’s website or mobile app, as schedules may be adjusted for holidays, special events, or maintenance work.
For tram travel, note that boarding is free for certain qualifying passengers (e.g., students with a valid ASU ID) under specific fare programs; standard fares apply to other riders.
When opting for a taxi or ride‑share, confirm the estimated arrival time within the app, as driver availability can fluctuate during large events such as sports games or concerts at downtown venues.
Cyclists should wear helmets, use lights when riding after dark, and remain aware of vehicle traffic on surface streets that lack dedicated bike lanes.
Parking in downtown Phoenix can be limited and costly during peak periods; utilizing park‑and‑ride facilities at Valley Metro stations or choosing public transit can alleviate parking concerns.
Keep an eye on weather alerts; monsoon storms in the summer can produce sudden heavy rain and reduced visibility, affecting all modes of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the shortest driving distance between Tempe and Phoenix?: The straight‑line (as‑the‑crow‑flies) distance is about 16 miles (25 km), while the road distance via the AZ‑202 Loop and East Washington Street is roughly 2

Shuttle From Tempe to Phoenix AZ

Click Above to Check Rates

Pricing / Fares (Tempe)

How much does it cost to go from Phoenix or Tempe?

It depends on the addresses you enter and the number of people. Check rates by clicking any of the buttons above or below that say "Check Rates". There are different options under "Select Service" like "To Airport" or "From Airport" and "One Way" or "Round Trip". Choose the option called "Any Address" for non-airport transportation in between any two addresses in Arizona. Rates are total, not per person. Enter the promo code "ONLINE" for one way trips to save 10%, or book a round trip to save more both ways.

How do I get an accurate quote?

Step 1 - You can just type in the city to check rates, but we recommend entering the full address to get an accurate quote since we have special rates for certain zip codes and most pricing is mileage based. Feel free to call us if you have any questions. Once you fill in the addresses, click "View Rates".
Step 2 - We include pricing for Taxi, Airport Shuttle and Black Car Service, so you can compare costs and have more options. Choose the type of service you want with the correct number of passengers. Once a price comes up and you're happy, click "Reserve Now"
Step 3 - It's always a good idea to enter your name, cell phone and email to save your quote and automatically get a copy sent to your email. That way we can easily look up your quote by name when you call and finish up your reservation when you're ready. Just click "Continue"
Step 4 - The website won't actually book anything until you enter a credit or debit card on the final booking screen. You will automatically receive a confirmation email with all the details after you click "Confirm My Reservation".

How do I save money?

Please enter the full address to get the most accurate rates between Phoenix and Tempe AZ. Book a round trip and you'll receive 10% off each way. If it's a one way use promo code ONLINE to save 10%. This promo code is only valid on one way trips. If you're booking a round trip you automatically save 10% each way, so use discount code NONSTOP instead to receive a free upgrade to non-stop.

What are the benefits of using our service?

Door to door service is included on all our trips. Usually trips are non-stop in a nicer vehicle. We can pick you up at your home anytime 24/7. We normally take you straight home, which is very different from other companies that leave you at a bus stop and stop and wait at intermediate points for hours. We also don't pack you in with 8-15 people you don't know and stop everywhere.

Does it cost anything to make changes to my reservation?

You can always change the date and time of your reservation at no cost. If you don't know the exact address, you can enter the city for now to reserve it, and give us the full address later. If you don't know your flight number, you can estimate the time and update the flight number and time later via phone, email or text.

Our Better Vehicles

What type of vehicle will pick me up?

We send an airport shuttle (4+ passengers) or a nice car (1-3 passengers) anytime and take you to or from any address in Arizona, not just Sky Harbor. Our vehicles are clean and newer. Most vehicles are luxury and full size. We have Mercedes Sprinters, Chrysler 300's, Lexus ES300 Hybrids, Lincoln MKZ's, and a variety of other vehicles to meet your needs.

Our Pickup Locations

Your Tempe Shuttle picks up where it says Prearranged. If you are in a wheelchair, do not allow your attendant to leave you anywhere except Prearranged. The signs are easy to see and they are always at the outer curb. Sometimes security will send people to the wrong place, so it's better to follow the directions below. PHX also won't allow drivers to walk more than 15 feet away from their vehicle or wait, so good communication is essential. Turn on your cell phone and take it off of airplane mode, so your driver can call or text you. If you don't recognize the number, it's probably your driver.

Terminal 3 Prearranged is across the crosswalk from Door 6 and to the right, south side of the building.

Terminal 4 Prearranged is across the crosswalk from Door 3, north side of the building, first floor. The sign says "Prearranged Vehicles 3 NORTH".

To and From Any Address (One Way)

What kind of transportation services do you offer?

We offer a Phoenix to Tempe Shuttle, and a shuttle from Tempe to Phoenix, and other types of Tempe transportation like black car and taxi. We customize our shuttle service to your needs by offering different options like shuttles, black car services, and taxi. We offer many types of vehicles, and different options to make your experience great.

Things You Should Know

Does it make sense to take an Uber or Lyft?

Uber and Lyft drivers often cancel once they arrive at your house, because the app doesn't tell them where they are going until they arrive at your home. Usually they don't want to drive that far and not get paid to drive back, or they are unavailable to work for that long. This may result in you missing your flight after 2-3 of them cancel in a row, and they charge you $5 each time for the cancellation. You then try to contact Uber or Lyft over the next week to get a refund, and they don't even have a phone number.

Another thing to consider is that Uber and Lyft drivers are never interviewed, so you may get a depressed guy complaining about his life, a tiny car with no leg room or a creeper. Uber and Lyft also do not train their drivers and Sky Harbor is moderately confusing to most people, so they usually have no idea where to go.

How reliable is the Greyhound bus or an Arizona shuttle with a lot of people?

Other shuttle companies that do shared rides in Tempe and Phoenix will try to pick you up an hour or two earlier, but they make no promises about when you will actually get to PHX. If you're on a tight schedule, the shared ride option with Arizona shuttle or the Greyhound is probably not a good idea. Extra stops and scheduling with other passengers can either make you too early or potentially late. Even with great drivers, passengers can be unpredictable and end up making everyone miss their flight.

Tempe AZ is home to Arizona State University (ASU). Coming in town and need a ride? The distance between Phoenix AZ and Tempe AZ is 11.4 miles, which is a 26 minute drive.