When traveling through Houston, one of the most common questions visitors and locals alike ask is whether there’s a shuttle from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). With Houston being one of the largest cities in the United States, understanding your transportation options between its two main airports is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know about getting from IAH to Hobby Airport, including shuttle services, ride-share options, taxis, public transportation, and other Houston airport transportation alternatives.
Houston has two major airports that serve millions of passengers each year. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), located about 23 miles north of downtown Houston, is the city’s largest airport and serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is smaller and situated approximately 7 miles south of downtown. Hobby primarily handles domestic flights and some international routes to Mexico and Latin America.
The distance between IAH and HOU is roughly 35 miles, depending on your route and current traffic. Travel time can vary widely—on average, expect anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes when driving between the two airports.
Unfortunately, there is no direct, regularly scheduled airport-operated shuttle that runs between IAH and Hobby Airport. Unlike some metropolitan areas where a single shuttle system connects multiple airports, Houston’s airports are operated separately, and each focuses on its own ground transportation network.
However, this doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. Several private shuttle companies and transportation providers offer shared or private rides between the two airports. These services can be reserved in advance and are often more affordable than taxis or ride-shares, especially for solo travelers or small groups.
A few companies provide dedicated airport shuttle services between IAH and Hobby. These are often shared-ride shuttles, meaning you’ll be traveling with other passengers who may have different pickup or drop-off points. Common providers include:
It’s best to reserve a shuttle in advance to ensure availability and avoid last-minute surcharges.
If convenience is your top priority, ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are excellent options for traveling between Houston’s airports.
Ride-shares are a good balance between comfort and cost, offering door-to-door convenience without the need to coordinate with a group shuttle schedule.
Taxis are available 24/7 at both Houston airports and provide another straightforward transportation option. The trip between IAH and Hobby typically costs between $75 and $100 plus tip. While taxis can be more expensive than shuttles or ride-shares, they’re often faster if you’re departing immediately after arrival.
For travelers who prefer a premium experience, Houston also offers several private car and limousine services. These are ideal for business travelers, families, or those who simply want a stress-free ride in comfort. Some highly rated services include:
These services cost more than standard shuttles, but they deliver a high level of reliability and professionalism that frequent flyers appreciate.
If you plan to explore Houston or its surrounding areas, renting a car might be the best option. Both IAH and Hobby Airport have extensive rental car centers featuring all the major brands—Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and others.
Driving between the two airports is simple, with clear highway routes connecting them. The most direct route generally involves taking I-45 South from IAH or I-45 North from Hobby. Depending on traffic, expect the drive to take between 45 minutes and 1 hour.
Keep in mind that rental companies charge a daily fee, and you’ll need to return the vehicle at the correct airport if you’re only traveling one way. Check with your provider for drop-off policies and potential one-way rental fees.
For budget-conscious travelers, public transportation offers the cheapest (though slowest) way to get between IAH and Hobby Airport. The Houston METRO system operates buses that can take you part of the way.
To travel between the airports:
1. Take METRO Bus 102 from IAH to downtown Houston.
2. Transfer at downtown’s METRO Transit Center to Bus 40, which runs to Hobby Airport.
The entire trip costs around $3 and can take up to two hours, depending on schedules and traffic. While this option is the least expensive, it’s not ideal if you have heavy luggage or are on a tight schedule.
If you’re staying in Houston between flights, check whether your hotel provides complimentary shuttle service to either airport. Many hotels near both IAH and HOU offer free transfers to and from their properties. Some even arrange inter-airport transportation for guests upon request, often for a modest fee.
This option can save you both time and money, especially if you plan an overnight stay between connecting flights. Always confirm shuttle details directly with the hotel before booking your reservation.
Transportation Type | Average Cost | Travel Time | Pros | Cons |
Private Shuttle | $35–$60 | 60–75 mins | Affordable, reliable | Shared with others |
Ride-Share (Uber/Lyft) | $50–$80 | 45–60 mins | Convenient, direct | Surge pricing possible |
Taxi | $75–$100 | 45–60 mins | Readily available | Higher cost |
Rental Car | $60+ daily | 45–60 mins | Flexible, private | One-way fees possible |
Public Transit | $3 | 90–120 mins | Cheapest option | Slow, multiple transfers |
When it comes to Houston airport transportation, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Your choice depends on your budget, time constraints, and personal preferences. If cost savings are key, a shared shuttle or public transit might be best. If you value speed and comfort, ride-shares, taxis, or private cars are ideal.
Both IAH and Hobby Airport offer multiple transportation options to help you travel smoothly across Houston. By planning ahead, you can ensure your airport transfer is stress-free and efficient, leaving you free to focus on your journey ahead.
