🇲🇵 Transportation Costs in Northern Mariana Islands
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameCommonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
CapitalSaipan
Population47,329
Area464.0 km²
LanguagesCarolinian, Chamorro, English
CurrencyUnited States dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC+10:00
RegionOceania / Micronesia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
The cost of transportation in Northern Mariana Islands can range from $2 for a single bus fare to $100 or more for a domestic flight, depending on the mode of transportation and distance traveled.
Quick Facts
Monthly Transit Pass($60 USD)
Taxi Start Rate($5 USD)
Fuel (per liter)($1.20 USD)
Ride-Hailing Available(No — but some local taxi apps)
CurrencyUSD
Getting Around Overview
The Northern Mariana Islands, a US territory in the Pacific Ocean, has a relatively simple transportation system. The main modes of transportation are buses, taxis, and rental cars, with most people relying on personal vehicles or taxis to get around. The quality of public transit is limited, with a lack of comprehensive bus networks and no metro or subway system. However, the islands' small size and low population density make it relatively easy to navigate, and many residents and tourists opt for walking or biking for short distances.
The capital city of Saipan has a more developed transportation system, with a few bus routes and a greater number of taxis available. However, outside of Saipan, transportation options are more limited, and visitors may need to rely on rental cars or private transfers to get around. Despite these limitations, the Northern Mariana Islands are a popular tourist destination, and many resorts and hotels offer shuttle services or car rentals to help visitors get around.
Public Transportation
Transport Type
Single Fare (USD)
Monthly Pass (USD)
Notes
City Bus
$2
$60
Limited coverage, mostly in Saipan
Metro / Subway
N/A
N/A
Not available
Minibus / Shared Taxi
$5
N/A
Limited routes, mostly in Saipan
Commuter Train
N/A
N/A
Not available
Taxi & Ride-Hailing
Service
Base Fare (USD)
Per km (USD)
Typical City Ride (USD)
Notes
Metered Taxi
$5
$2
$10-20
Limited availability outside Saipan
Ride-Hailing App
N/A
N/A
N/A
Not available, but some local taxi apps
Airport Transfer
N/A
N/A
$20-50
To city center, depending on traffic
Fuel & Driving Costs
Item
Cost (USD)
Notes
Gasoline (per liter)
$1.20
Diesel (per liter)
$1.30
Car Rental (per day)
$40-80
Economy car, depending on rental agency
Parking (per hour, city)
$2-5
Limited parking options, especially in Saipan
Toll Roads (typical)
N/A
Not applicable, no toll roads
Intercity & Long-Distance
Route Type
Cost Range (USD)
Notes
Intercity Bus (4-5 hrs)
$20-50
Limited options, mostly between Saipan and other islands
Domestic Flight
$100-200
Typical route, depending on airline and time of year
Train (long-distance)
N/A
Not available
Transport Tips
To save money on transportation, consider purchasing a monthly transit pass for $60, which can be used on buses and some taxis.
Use local taxi apps, such as Saipan Taxi, to book rides and estimate fares in advance.
Always negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey, especially for longer trips or at night.
Be aware of limited parking options, especially in Saipan, and plan ahead to avoid fines or towing.
Consider renting a car for a day or two to explore the islands and enjoy more flexibility in your transportation.
For domestic flights, book in advance to secure the best prices, and consider traveling during the off-season to save money.