NYC Subway Fare Hike: $3 Coming in January!

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) board gave the green light on Tuesday for a range of fare and toll hikes set to begin in January, affecting millions of New Yorkers who depend on subways, buses, and commuter rail lines.

Subway and Bus Fare Increases

Starting in January, the standard subway and bus fare will increase from $2.90 to $3. Reduced-fare riders will now pay $1.50, up from $1.45. Express bus fares are set to go from $7 to $7.25, and reduced off-peak fares will move from $3.50 to $3.60.

These fare modifications, which the board approved during its September 30 meeting, are part of the MTA’s approach to gradual, steady increases rather than large, abrupt changes.

OMNY Weekly Cap Adjusted

Alongside fare hikes, the MTA eased its earlier plan on the price for unlimited weekly OMNY rides. While the original proposal called for a $2 jump, the final approved increase was reduced by half after public feedback over six weeks.

The new weekly cap will go from $34 to $35, allowing those who ride at least 12 times a week to spend no more than $35. For those receiving reduced fares, the cap will be $17.50 per week.

“This governor and this legislature stepped up so we did not have to abandon our tradition of moderate fare raises in favor of a huge hike like what’s happening in Philadelphia,” said Janno Lieber, MTA chair and CEO.

Toll and Commuter Rail Adjustments

Motorists will see tolls on most MTA bridges rise from $6.94 to $7.46. The board also set new guidelines for Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North train tickets.

All single-ride paper and mobile tickets will now be valid until 4 a.m. the next day, instead of just four hours after purchase, as originally suggested.

Rider Opinions Vary

Riders shared mixed feelings about the increases.

“For many people, it’s becoming hard to afford with these frequent hikes,” said commuter Omar Vera, calling on the MTA to slow the rate of increases, amNY reported.

However, Adam Schmidt, a Citizens Budget Commission transportation associate, said the hikes are justified: “Reasonable, predictable biennial increases are the best way to help the MTA keep running without hitting riders and drivers with steep or sudden price jumps.”