Full Breakdown
Metrolink Raises Fares for First Time in 13 Years
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Fare Increase Takes Effect
On Monday, Metrolink implemented its first fare hike in 13 years. One-way tickets rose by an average of 14 percent, while the SoCal Day Pass increased from $15 to $19 on weekdays (a 27 percent jump) and from $10 to $12 on weekends and holidays. Monthly and 5-Day Flex passes were adjusted according to the agency’s pricing model, which ties pass prices to underlying one-way fares.
Background & Context
Metrolink’s simplified fare structure, introduced in July 2025, was designed to reduce ticket complexity and expand discounts. The agency’s board approved the 2026 changes on June 26. The fare adjustment follows a period of reduced post-pandemic ridership, rising operating and maintenance costs, and declining state and federal funding support.
Data & Statistics
- Average one-way fare increase: ? 14 percent.
- Nearly 80 percent of one-way purchases will rise by $1 or less; fewer than 1 percent will increase by more than $2.
- Weekday SoCal Day Pass: $15 -> $19 (27 percent).
- Weekend/Holiday SoCal Day Pass: $10 -> $12 (20 percent).
- LA Zone Day Pass remains at $5.
- Discounts for seniors, riders with disabilities, Medicare recipients, veterans, active military, students, youth, and qualifying low-income riders continue unchanged.
Official Statements & Responses
Metrolink also noted that some pass holders may see a price decrease or no change, depending on travel distance.
On-the-Ground Reports
Riders expressed mixed reactions. Tonia Jones, 61, called the increase “ridiculous” and suggested she might consider leaving California. Louis Atlantis described the fare rise as another burden of inflation, while Krima Patel argued that despite higher costs, Metrolink remains the most time-efficient option compared with driving.
What's Next
Metrolink will discontinue print-at-home tickets later this month, shifting all online purchases to the mobile app or station machines. A free-ride day for the system’s six-county network is scheduled for early October, coinciding with California Clean Air Day, during which no tickets will be required.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Metrolink has worked hard to keep fares affordable while the cost of operating and maintaining our regional rail system has continued to rise,” — Metrolink CEO Darren Kettle
- “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,” — Darren Kettle, metrolink CEO
- “Metrolink recognizes that any fare increase affects our customers, and this decision was not made lightly,” — Zone Day Pass. Metrolink, check the official
- “Metrolink is facing higher operating and maintenance costs, slower than anticipated post-pandemic ridership growth and declining state and federal funding support,” — Meredith Yeoman, Director of Communications