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Chicago's New Congestion-Zone Fee Raises Uber and Lyft Fares in Two Areas Starting Today

The surcharge stems from the 2026 budget that took effect after Mayor Brandon Johnson let it become law without his signature.

Overview

  • Riders pay an extra $1.50 per single trip between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., with a $0.60 add-on for pooled rides during the same hours.
  • The fee triggers when a pickup or drop-off occurs inside either congestion zone, with Navy Pier and McCormick Place specifically excluded.
  • Zone 1 covers a large downtown footprint from Pilsen and 31st Street Beach north toward Andersonville, while Zone 2 spans parts of Hyde Park near East 60th Street, South Cottage Grove and East Hyde Park Boulevard.
  • The budget authorizing the surcharge took effect by default on Jan. 1 after City Council approval and the mayor’s decision not to veto.
  • Additional measures include a 15-cent checkout bag fee and new taxes on leases, car rentals, boat mooring, large social media firms and sports wagering, with a 1.5% off-premises liquor tax beginning March 1.