How Many Yellow Cabs Are There, Anyway? A Deep Dive into the World of Medallions
So, you're curious about the number of yellow cabs cruising the concrete jungle that is New York City? Well, buckle up, because we're about to embark on a thrilling journey through the world of medallions.
The Golden Ticket: The NYC Taxi Medallion
Let's start with the basics. What exactly is a medallion? It's not a shiny piece of jewelry that you can flaunt at the Met Gala. It's actually a license issued by the city that allows a vehicle to operate as a taxi. Think of it as the golden ticket to the world of yellow cabs.
How Many Are There?
Now, for the burning question: How many of these golden tickets are out there? Well, as of now, there are 13,587 yellow cab medallions in total. That's a lot of cabs! But remember, this number isn't set in stone. It's a fluctuating figure that can change over time. New medallions can be issued, and existing ones can change hands.
The Medallion Madness
The world of taxi medallions has been a rollercoaster. Once upon a time, these little metal plates were worth more than your average apartment. People were buying them up like hotcakes, thinking they were the next big investment. But then, along came ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, and the medallion market took a nosedive.
It's like those Beanie Babies everyone went crazy for in the 90s. They were worth a fortune, and then poof, their value plummeted. So, while medallions are still important, their value has certainly seen better days.
The Future of Yellow Cabs
So, where do yellow cabs go from here? Will they become extinct like the dodo bird, replaced entirely by app-based rides? Or will they find a way to adapt and survive? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: the yellow cab will always hold a special place in the heart of New York City.
How To... Yellow Cab FAQs
How to become a yellow cab driver?
- You'll need to obtain a TLC driver's license, pass a background check, and secure a job with a taxi fleet owner.
How to buy a taxi medallion?
- Medallion ownership is a complex process involving brokers and auctions. It's generally not a recommended investment for beginners.
How to hail a yellow cab?
- Simply stand on the sidewalk, extend your arm with your palm facing down, and wait for a cab to stop.
How to estimate a yellow cab fare?
- Use a taxi fare estimator app or website, or ask the driver for an estimated fare before starting your trip.
How to report a bad yellow cab experience?
- Contact the NYC Taxi & Limousine Commission (TLC) to file a complaint.