Los Angeles Metrolink’s one-way tickets and “SoCal Day Pass” prices have been increased starting Monday (October 5th), marking the first fare hike for the regional railway system in 13 years.
According to city news outlets, Metrolink stated that the average increase for one-way tickets is 14%, with the weekday price for the “SoCal Day Pass” set at $19 and $12 for weekends and holidays.
Officials mentioned that nearly 80% of one-way ticket fare increases are under $1, with less than 1% experiencing a hike of over $2.
The fare adjustment was approved by the Metrolink board in June. Officials from the organization cited reasons for the increase such as rising operational and maintenance costs, reduced ridership post-pandemic, and a gradual decline in funding from state and federal governments.
“Metrolink has been striving to maintain affordable fares, but the costs of operating and maintaining the regional rail system continue to rise,” stated Darren Kettle, the CEO of Metrolink, when announcing the adjustment. “This fare increase is one responsible way for us to address these pressures aimed at supporting the long-term financial sustainability of Metrolink, maintaining a simpler fare structure, and making important discounts more accessible to Southern California passengers.”
The prices for the 5-Day Flex Pass and monthly passes will also be adjusted based on Metrolink’s pricing model, factoring in one-way ticket fares. The organization noted that as a result, some passengers may see a decrease in fares while others might experience a slight increase.
Officials mentioned that since July 2025, Metrolink has been using a simplified fare structure, introducing products like the “SoCal Day Pass” and “LA Zone Day Pass.”
Discounts will still be available for students, youth, elderly passengers, individuals with disabilities, veterans and active-duty military personnel, Medicare beneficiaries, and low-income passengers.
For more information, please visit the Metrolink commuter rail website. ◇