COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – Taxi companies in Columbus are defending fares that can cost more than in New York.

Jim Stofer, whose company operates Yellow Cabs in Columbus, says drivers need the rates to make up for a lack of volume. He says it's not the same as in New York, where you can go down the street and immediately pick up someone.

During off-peak hours in Manhattan, a 5-mile taxi trip including a typical wait in traffic costs $14.50. In Columbus, a similar ride is $14.90, plus tax.

The fares approved last year by the Columbus City Council also cost more than in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Detroit, Milwaukee and Minneapolis.

Council's liaison to the taxi licensing board says council members will be concerned if out-of-towners feel the fares are out of line.