Donna,
Thanks for asking your question to planDisney!
Even though Disney's Magical Express service expired at the end of 2021, there are still a lot of choices for getting from the airport to your home in the magic at Walt Disney World. Because the options come from third party companies, the prices can change over time, but I will give you a review of those options and how they generally compare from a price perspective. These choices include shuttles, ride share services, cabs, rental cars, and even car services. There are rides to meet every need and budget.
Shuttle Services: Several Magical Express-like services have appeared in recent months. For many Disney veterans, the Mears Connect service most closely matches the old Magical Express service, though of course it is not free. I recently used this service, and it was very similar to Magical Express. It is likely the most affordable of all the options listed here. My wait times were about the same as with the Magical Express service, and they also have an expedited version, so look at both options.
Ride Share / Taxis: Ride share services like Uber & Lyft, as well as taxis are obvious choices. They will be more expensive than the larger shuttle services, but more direct, and you are not typically riding with other travelers.
Rental Car: Of course, you can rent a car. But the cost can be high, especially if you are not really using it much during your stay. For many guests, after they arrive, they rely on the
Disney Transportation services to get from resort to park. In their case, a rental might just be sitting idle in a parking lot at the resort. Consider how often you will use it when weighing this option. Also check what the daily parking charge is at your resort if that applies.
Car Service: A final option that is a definite upgrade on your trip is to reserve a car service. When you book round trip the cost may not be as comparatively high as you would think, and it will shorten travel times, since you are the first and only stop. Many, like Quicksilver, also offer a grocery store stop on your arrival leg at no charge.
BOTTOM LINEThe standard shuttle services are the most affordable, likely followed by cabs/ride shares. However, in a few cases there are car services whose round trip pricing can be on a par with ride shares and have that perk of a grocery store stop. My family usually chooses between the shuttle or a car service, but all the options have an appeal to different families.
Write me back if you have any follow-up questions.
Have a Magical Vacation!
Doug