Los Angeles Metrolink raises fares for first time in 13 years, up to 27% on some tickets

Full report

The new fares took effect on Monday, Oct. 5. The Metrolink board approved the changes on June 26, citing rising operating and maintenance costs, ridership and fare revenue that remain below pre-pandemic levels, and declining state and federal funding.

The details: one-way tickets rise 14% on average, with nearly 80% of tickets increasing by no more than $1 and fewer than 1% by more than $2; the SoCal Day Pass goes from $15 to $19 on weekdays and from $10 to $12 on weekends and holidays, with some short-distance fares up as much as 27%. The $5 LA Zone Day Pass stays unchanged, as do discounts for students, seniors, military members and low-income riders.

Riders interviewed by the Los Angeles Times at Union Station said they were stunned: kiosks carried only a short 'fare adjustment' notice, with no signs near the main entrance or the depot. Tonia Jones, a seven-year commuter, called the increase jarring as gas prices stay high: 'We can't afford that! How ridiculous.'

In a statement, Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle said: 'Metrolink has worked hard to keep fares affordable while the cost of operating and maintaining our regional rail system has continued to rise. These pricing adjustments are one step in a broader effort we are taking to responsibly address those pressures and support Metrolink's long-term financial sustainability.' The agency is also grappling with budget shortfalls and service cuts; Metro board members, a major funder, have criticized the cuts and approved an audit.