Metro 500 Hobby Airport: Routes, Fares & Schedule 2026

Back to Getting To and From Hobby Airport | Complete HOU Airport Parking Guide

The METRO 500 Downtown Direct is Houston's express bus route connecting William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), downtown Houston, and Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) for a flat $4.50 one-way fare. The metro 500 hobby airport service launched on February 22, 2026, giving Hobby travelers a fast, affordable alternative to rideshare or driving. It stops at Curb Zone 3 on HOU's baggage claim level — one of the cheapest transit options from any Houston airport.

• Flat $4.50 one-way fare — no surge pricing, no tipping required, no parking fees.
• Pickup at Curb Zone 3, baggage claim level, William P. Hobby Airport.
• Launched February 22, 2026, per the Houston Airport System press release.
• Route connects HOU → downtown Houston → IAH in a single trip.
• Key downtown stop: George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) — walking distance to major hotels and METRARail.
• Local bus alternatives at Curb Zone 3 include Routes 40, 50, and 73 (to the Red Line).

Driving yourself and parking at HOU costs from $4.73/day at off-site lots bookable on Triply. If you're flying from HOU for a week, compare the total cost of transit versus parking before you commit. Compare HOU off-site parking rates starting at $4.73/day on Triply — then decide which option saves you more.

What Is the METRO 500 Downtown Direct and How Does It Serve Hobby Airport?

The METRO 500 Downtown Direct is an express bus route operated by Houston METRO that links William P. Hobby Airport directly to downtown Houston and Bush Intercontinental Airport. Before February 22, 2026, Hobby travelers had no direct express bus to downtown. The 500 changed that.

The route runs along the Interstate 45 (Gulf Freeway) corridor — the same road that connects HOU to downtown, about 7 miles northwest of the airport. Stops include major downtown landmarks and the George R. Brown Convention Center, making it useful for convention travelers, hotel guests, and anyone connecting onward to IAH without renting a car.

The metro 500 hobby airport service is a direct response to Houston's growing transit needs. Houston Public Media reported that the city targeted Hobby as a key transit corridor ahead of major events including FIFA World Cup 2026, which brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to Houston. For visitors without cars — or travelers who want to skip the cost and stress of driving — the 500 is the most direct public transit option available from HOU.

For full context on all your ground transportation options from HOU, the 2026 Hobby Airport ground transportation guide covers taxis, rideshare, rental cars, and parking side by side.

How Much Does the metro 500 Hobby Airport Bus Cost?

The METRO 500 costs $4.50 per one-way trip, per the Houston Airport System's official press release (verified October 2026). That flat rate applies for the full route from HOU to downtown or all the way to IAH. There is no distance-based pricing — you pay the same whether you ride one stop or the whole line.

METRO offers reduced fares for eligible riders. Check the METRO website for current discount programs for seniors, Medicare cardholders, and riders with disabilities. Student discounts may also apply — verify directly with METRO before your trip.

How Does the $4.50 Fare Compare to Driving and Parking at HOU?

The math matters if you're a budget traveler. Here's a realistic cost comparison based on verified 2026 data:

For a 7-day trip, the METRO 500 round trip costs just $9.00 total — compared to $70 at the ecopark or up to $175 in the terminal garage, based on published Houston Airport System rates. That's a saving of up to $166 per trip versus the garage, or $24 versus the ecopark, if you don't need your car at your destination. The trade-off is schedule flexibility — the bus runs on a fixed timetable, not on demand.

Where Do You Catch the METRO 500 at HOU — Exact Stop Location and Instructions

The METRO 500 picks up at Curb Zone 3 on the baggage claim level of William P. Hobby Airport's main terminal. Follow the ground transportation signs after collecting your bags — Curb Zone 3 is on the exterior curb and is also served by METRO local buses Routes 40, 50, and 73 (connecting to the Red Line).

Here's what to expect as a first-time rider at HOU:

1. Collect your checked bags at baggage claim inside the terminal.
2. Exit through the baggage claim doors to the curb.
3. Follow signs to Curb Zone 3 — the transit and bus area.
4. Look for the METRO 500 stop marker. Have your payment ready before boarding.
5. Board the bus and pay or tap your card at the farebox.
6. Luggage racks are available on METRO express buses — stow large bags before finding a seat.

One practical note: the walk from most gates to baggage claim at Hobby is straightforward. HOU is a compact, single-terminal airport, so reaching Curb Zone 3 typically takes 5 to 10 minutes from baggage claim. Allow extra time if your flight lands during a busy period or if you have multiple bags.

The airport's official ground transportation page shows the full curb zone map — useful to review before your first trip.

What Are the METRO 500 Hours, Schedule, and Frequency from HOU?

According to competitor research and METRO's own published information, the METRO 500 runs approximately every 30 minutes, with service hours from roughly 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week. Verify the current schedule directly at ridemetro.org before your trip — hours may vary on holidays or during special events.

Key scheduling facts to know:

• Service is 7 days a week, including weekends.
• Buses run approximately every 30 minutes in each direction.
• The last bus from HOU departs around 8:00 p.m. — the 500 is not suitable for late-night arrivals.
• Early-morning travelers can catch the first departure around 5:30 a.m.
• Holiday schedules may differ — check METRO's trip planner for exact times.

Important for late flights: If your flight lands after 8 p.m., the METRO 500 will not be running. In that case, rideshare or a taxi is your only transit option. HOU's official taxi and rideshare page has pickup zone details for late arrivals.

How Long Does the METRO 500 Take from Hobby Airport to Downtown Houston?

Travel time on the METRO 500 from HOU to central downtown Houston is typically 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops. The bus travels the I-45 Gulf Freeway corridor, which connects Hobby directly to downtown. During rush hour or around major events, expect travel times closer to 45 minutes or slightly longer.

The full route continues from downtown to Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). That end-to-end trip from HOU to IAH takes significantly longer — plan on 60 to 90 minutes or more for the full route. For travelers connecting between Houston's two airports by bus, this is the most affordable option at just $4.50, but it's not the fastest.

Compare that to rideshare: an Uber or Lyft from HOU to downtown typically takes 20 to 35 minutes in normal traffic but costs $25 to $40 or more, with surge pricing a real possibility during peak hours. The METRO 500 trades speed for significant cost savings.

What Stops Does the METRO 500 Make Between HOU and Downtown Houston?

The METRO 500 Downtown Direct makes stops at key landmarks along the I-45 corridor. The most important downtown stop is the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB), which sits in the heart of downtown Houston and is within walking distance of major hotel clusters, the METRORail Green and Purple Lines, and Discovery Green park.

Key stops along the route include:

• William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) — starting point, Curb Zone 3
• South Houston / Hobby Transit Center area — regional transfer point
• Downtown Houston — multiple stops including the George R. Brown Convention Center
• Midtown / Museum District area — potential transfer to METRORail Red Line
• Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) — northern terminus

Exact stop names and locations may have been updated since launch. Use METRO's official trip planner to get a current stop list and real-time tracking before you travel. The RideMETRO app lets you track the 500 bus in real time — useful when you're waiting at Curb Zone 3 and want to know exactly when the next bus arrives.

How Does the metro 500 Hobby Airport Compare to Parking, Rideshare, and Taxis at HOU?

Choosing between the METRO 500 and other ground transportation options depends on your priorities. Here's a direct comparison to help you decide:

METRO 500 vs. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

• Cost: METRO 500 is $4.50 flat. Rideshare typically runs $25–$40 to downtown, with surge pricing possible.
• Speed: Rideshare wins — typically 20-35 minutes vs. 30-45 minutes by bus.
• Convenience: Rideshare is door-to-door. The 500 requires walking to Curb Zone 3 and possibly a short walk from your stop to your destination.
• Late-night availability: Rideshare runs 24/7. The METRO 500 stops around 8 p.m.
• Luggage: Rideshare is easier with multiple large bags. The 500 has luggage racks but is less convenient with oversized gear.

METRO 500 vs. Parking at HOU

• Best for transit: Travelers staying downtown who don't need a car at their destination.
• Best for parking: Travelers who need a car when they return, or who live in suburban Houston and drive to the airport.
• Off-site lots like the DoubleTree Houston Hobby Airport ($4.73/day) and Hobby Airport Parking ($5.32/day) are the most affordable parking option if you need your vehicle.
• Parking Plus savings: The full breakdown of Hobby Airport parking rates covers every discount program, including veteran parking and the Parking Plus loyalty program.

For most solo travelers heading to a downtown Houston hotel, the METRO 500 is a clear winner on price. For families with kids, lots of luggage, or late-night arrivals, driving and parking at an off-site lot often makes more sense. Browse HOU off-site parking lots starting at $4.73/day on Triply and compare your total trip cost before deciding.

If you're comparing all ground transportation options side by side — including taxis, rental cars, and ADA-accessible transport — the 2026 Hobby Airport ground transportation guide has full cost tables and route details for every option.

How Do You Pay for the METRO 500 Bus and What Payment Options Are Available?

METRO accepts three main payment methods on the 500 route. Knowing which to use before you arrive at Curb Zone 3 saves time and avoids holding up other passengers.

• RideMETRO App: Download the free RideMETRO app before your trip. You can buy a single ride, a day pass, or a stored-value balance. Show your digital ticket to board. The app also shows real-time bus locations — tap the METRO 500 route to track your bus at HOU.
• RideMETRO Fare Card: A reloadable card available at METRO RideStores and some retail locations. There is typically a small card issuance fee (around $2 — verify with METRO). Load it with credit before arriving at HOU, since fare card purchases may not be available at the airport stop itself.
• Cash: Exact change is required when paying cash at the farebox. The driver cannot make change. Have $4.50 in exact coins and bills ready if you plan to pay cash.

The RideMETRO App is the easiest option for first-time riders. You can buy your fare before landing and board without fumbling for cash. It's available for iOS and Android — set it up before your trip so it's ready when you land.

Traveling with a large group or attending a major event like FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Houston? METRO day passes and multi-ride passes offer better value than paying per trip. Check ridemetro.org for current pass pricing and promotional offers around event dates.

Step-by-Step: Riding the metro 500 Hobby Airport for the First Time

First-time riders often have questions about luggage, accessibility, and what to expect. Here's a practical end-to-end guide for your first trip on the METRO 500 from HOU:

1. Before you fly: Download the RideMETRO app and add $4.50 (or more for a return trip) to your account. Check the current schedule at ridemetro.org.
2. After landing: Collect your bags at baggage claim. Follow signs to Curb Zone 3 outside.
3. At the stop: Check the RideMETRO app for the next 500 arrival. Wait times vary but buses run roughly every 30 minutes.
4. Boarding: Tap your digital ticket or pay exact cash at the farebox. Use the luggage rack near the door for large bags.
5. During the ride: Track your location on the app. The George R. Brown Convention Center stop is a central downtown destination.
6. Arriving downtown: Disembark at your stop. The GRB stop is within walking distance of many downtown hotels and the METRORail Green and Purple Lines for further connections.
7. Return trip: Find your nearest METRO 500 stop downtown. Board southbound toward HOU. Arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight for TSA security screening.

Accessibility note: METRO buses are ADA-compliant with wheelchair ramps and priority seating. If you need additional assistance, contact METRO's customer service in advance. The Curb Zone 3 area at HOU is accessible from the baggage claim level without stairs.

FIFA World Cup 2026 tip: Houston is a host city for FIFA World Cup 2026 matches. Expect significantly higher rideshare demand and surge pricing on match days. The METRO 500 from HOU to downtown will be one of the most cost-stable options during the tournament — but buses may fill quickly. Check METRO's event schedule for any enhanced service during match days.

Local Bus Alternatives at HOU: Routes 40, 50, 73, and 88

The METRO 500 is not the only transit option at Curb Zone 3. Several local METRO routes also stop at HOU and serve nearby neighborhoods. These are slower than the 500 but useful for travelers heading to South Houston, Pasadena, or the Texas Medical Center area.

• Route 40: Serves the HOU area and connects south Houston neighborhoods.
• Route 50: Another local route at Curb Zone 3 serving the Hobby corridor.
• Route 73: Connects to the METRORail Red Line, giving travelers access to the full rail network including the Texas Medical Center and Midtown.
• Route 88: Listed as a Curb Zone 3 option — verify current status and stops with METRO before relying on it.

For travelers connecting to the Texas Medical Center or heading to neighborhoods not served by the 500, Route 73 to the Red Line is worth exploring. A single METRO fare typically covers a transfer within a time window — check with METRO for current transfer policy.

Planning your parking and transit strategy together? The Hobby Airport parking map and lot guide shows where each on-airport lot sits relative to the terminal curb zones — useful if you're deciding whether to park on-site or take transit on departure day.

Is Driving and Parking at HOU Still Worth It in 2026?

The METRO 500 is excellent for solo travelers heading downtown with light luggage. But parking still makes sense for many Hobby travelers — especially those returning to suburban areas, traveling in groups, or flying very early or late.

Based on current Triply rates (verified October 2026), off-site lots near HOU start at just $4.73/day at the DoubleTree Houston Hobby Airport, with a 24/7 shuttle running every 15 minutes. For a 3-day trip, that's $14.19 total — still significantly less than a round-trip Uber but more than two METRO bus rides.

The break-even point depends on your trip length, group size, and destination. A solo traveler staying downtown for 5+ days saves money on the bus. A family of four returning to Pearland or Clear Lake saves money parking. Use the comparison table above to run your own numbers before booking.

Ready to lock in low parking rates at HOU? Find and reserve HOU airport parking from $4.73/day on Triply — compare all off-site lots with real-time availability and instant confirmation.