MTA Approves Fare Hikes for NYC Subway, Bus, and Commuter Rail Riders

MTA Fare Increases Official

• 🚆 The MTA board has officially approved proposed fare hikes for subway and bus services, increasing the cost by 10 cents to $3 per swipe.
• 🚌 This decision was made at the transit authority office in downtown Brooklyn and is effective starting January 2026.

Specific Fare Adjustments

• 🚇 Subway and bus fares will rise from $2.90 to $3.00.
• 🚀 Express bus fares will increase by 25 cents, from $7.00 to $7.25.
• 🚂 LIRR and Metro North riders will experience a 4.4% fare increase.

Context and Public Input

• 📈 This marks the first MTA fare hike in two years, with the last occurring in September 2023.
• 🗣️ The MTA proposed these hikes in December and conducted a six-week public comment period, making adjustments based on feedback.
• 💰 MTA leadership noted that fare increases have lagged behind inflation and wage increases over the past decade.

Rider Affordability and System Changes

• ⚠️ While some initial proposed changes were rolled back to address affordability concerns, the vote was not unanimous, with two board members abstaining.
• 💳 The sale of Metro North cards will be discontinued starting December 31st, as the MTA transitions fully to the Omni Digital system.