UberX minimum fares go up for DC riders

WASHINGTON - It'll now cost you more to take Uber around the DC area. The carsharing company, which is offering steep discounts during Metro's SafeTrack rebuilding program, announced it is raising its minimum UberX fare by $1-- an increase of about 20 percent.

Uber told FOX 5 they've made the change to benefit drivers during single-rider trips. The minimum fare increases from $5.35 to $6.35. In a blog post to drivers on Monday, Uber said they have raised the minimum fare not just in the DC area, but in 24 cities across the country.

"We know that short rides can add up, and a seemingly small change like this one can make a difference for your earnings over time," the blog read in part.

Customers who use UberPOOL, where strangers ride together for a lower price, will not see a change in price.