Reading's Taxi Fares: The Most Expensive in the UK, Study Shows

A recent study conducted by Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has revealed that Reading is the most expensive place in the UK for a taxi ride. The average cost for a 4km journey in the town is £18.06, the highest in the country. With an average cost per kilometre of £3.39, Reading stands out for its high taxi fares compared to other regions.

While London, often associated with high costs, ranks as the fourth most expensive location, it is still notably cheaper than Reading, Oxford, and Woking. In London, the average cost of a 4km journey is £14.90, with a 1km fare priced at £2.60.

Despite the common belief that cities in the north of England offer lower taxi fares, Manchester ranks as the ninth most expensive location. The average cost for a 4km journey in Manchester is £13.10, indicating that the cost of taxis can vary significantly across the country.

A surge in Google searches for "taxis cheap" — up by 109 percent in the past month — suggests growing concern over rising fares.

For those looking to save money, the study advises options such as sharing rides with friends or walking parts of the journey when safe to do so.