Last Updated: July 1, 2009
The number of people riding the public transit system in the Phoenix area continues to grow. It isn't just because our population is still growing. As the price of gasoline becomes a significant factor in our budgets, and as the quality of valley air impacts our quality of life, people are changing their transportation habits. That means they are using more public transportation.
Valley Metro is the name of the regional transit system in the Phoenix metropolitan area. It is comprised of:
- METRO light rail
- Local, Express and RAPID commuter bus service
- Neighborhood circulators
- Dial-a-Ride
- Vanpool service
- Online carpool matching system
- Assistance to local businesses to help them meet the Maricopa County trip reduction goals
How Much Is the METRO Fare?
The METRO fare is the same as the Valley Metro bus fare. Beginning July 1, 2009 a one-trip fare is $1.75. An all day pass will be twice that amount, $3.50. If you buy your all-day, 3-day, 7-day or 31-day pass on the bus or on the METRO light rail instead of at a station, retailer, transit center or online you will be charged a premium. Here is the entire rate schedule.
If you ride the METRO or bus regularly, or you need to take more than one public transportation vehicle (combination of bus and rail) to get to your destination, you'll probably find that one of the following passes is the most economical:
All Day Pass ($3.50) - Can be purchased at any METRO station and can be used all day, from rail to rail or from bus to rail and back again. These work best if you typically don't ride the METRO, but you will be doing so one or two days per month for special trips.
3, 7 and 31 Day Local Passes - Your multiple-day local pass will be valid for 3 days ($10.50), 7 days ($17.50) or 31 days ($55) after activation. They are activated on first use, not when you buy them. The 3 and 7-day passes are great for your visiting relatives, or if you are attending a class just this week, or your car will be in the shop for a few days. Days are defined as consecutive days, not business days. Seniors, youths, and the disabled receive reduced fares.
Here is the current fare schedule for all METRO light rail options.
How Do I Buy METRO Tickets and Passes?
You can:
- Purchase your fare online
- Purchase your fare at transit centers or retail locations
- Purchase your pass at the METRO station. Credit cards or cash are accepted.
- A 1-ride fare purchased at a METRO vending machine is good only for light rail. It can't be used on a bus.
Reduced fares for local service are available to youths ages 6-18, seniors 65 and over, and persons with a disability. Children 5 and younger may ride for free.
All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.
