Metrolink to raise fares in October

Metrolink announced yesterday that limited fare increases will take effect Oct. 5. The hikes, Metrolink's first in 13 years, were approved by the board in June. 

The California commuter railroad continues to face rising operating and maintenance costs, reduced post-pandemic ridership, and declining state and federal funding support, Metrolink officials said in a press release.

One-way tickets will increase by an average of 14%, with 80% of riders seeing an increase of less than $1, Metrolink officials said. The price of multi-day passes will shift slightly based on Metrolink’s pricing model, which factors in one-way trips. SoCal Day Passes will be $19 on weekdays, up from $15, and $12 on weekends and holidays, up from $10.

Discounts for students, youth, seniors, riders with disabilities, veterans and active military members, Medicare recipients and low-income customers will continue to be available. 

"Metrolink has worked hard to keep fares affordable while the cost of operating and maintaining our regional rail system has continued to rise," said 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, while preserving a simpler fare structure and the valuable discounts that make our service more accessible to riders across Southern California."

The simplified fare structure was introduced as a pilot program in July 2025 and made permanent in June of this year.