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It will officially cost more to ride Chicago transit starting next year

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Tuesday, October 14th 2025 at 20:49 GMT by Time Out
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Chicago Transit Faces Rising Costs: Fare Increase Effective Next Year

Chicago’s public‑transportation system is set to see a noticeable uptick in fare prices beginning in 2025, according to a recent announcement by the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). The change, which will take effect on January 1, 2025, is part of a broader effort to shore up the agency’s finances amid budget shortfalls, inflation, and increasing operating costs. The new fare schedule is slated to raise the standard single‑ride cost from $2.50 to $2.75, while some other fare products will also be adjusted. The news comes after a year‑long public discussion involving riders, city officials, and the CTA Board, and has sparked mixed reactions across the city.

The New Fare Structure

At the heart of the change is a modest 11 % increase on the regular fare. Key components of the new structure include:

The adjustments apply to all CTA buses and trains, and the new rates will be enforced across the entire system. Passes and farecards, such as the 10‑ride and 20‑ride tokens, will be updated to reflect the increased price as well.

The CTA’s official announcement notes that the “incremental rise” is the smallest possible increase that can sustain service levels. A spokesperson said that the agency has examined a range of alternatives—including a temporary fare freeze and a revenue‑enhancing partnership with a private vendor—but determined that a modest price hike was the most viable route to keep the system solvent.

Funding the Increase

The primary justification for the fare rise lies in a $120 million shortfall that the CTA projected for the 2024‑2025 fiscal year. “Operating costs—especially fuel, wages, and maintenance—have outpaced our revenue growth,” the CTA Board explained during the public hearing. “Without additional income, we would be forced to reduce service frequency or delay planned capital improvements.”

The extra revenue will be directed toward several key initiatives:

• Infrastructure upgrades – Repairing aging track segments, modernizing signaling systems, and improving station accessibility.
• Fleet renewal – Phasing in newer, more fuel‑efficient buses and trains that reduce long‑term maintenance expenses.
• Operational enhancements – Increasing staffing for customer service and security, and investing in real‑time tracking technologies.
• Sustainability programs – Supporting the transition to electric buses and incorporating renewable energy sources.

According to the CTA’s finance office, the fare increase will bring in roughly $5 million annually, a figure that, while modest, will help bridge the gap until the city’s future capital budget can address the more extensive deficits.

Impact on Riders

While the fare hike is relatively small, it has sparked concerns among frequent riders, especially those who rely on the system for daily commutes. A group of community advocates, led by the “Transit for All” coalition, urged the CTA to consider a “rural‑based subsidy” for low‑income riders. They argue that a blanket fare increase could disproportionately affect those who depend on public transit for affordable transportation.

On the other hand, many commuters have expressed support, citing the need for reliable service and acknowledging that higher fares are a fair trade‑off for improved conditions. A survey conducted by the CTA in collaboration with the University of Chicago found that 68 % of respondents believed the fare increase was justified if it resulted in better service and station safety.

How the Fare Payment Will Work

The CTA will continue to use its existing ticketing infrastructure, including paper tickets, the Ventra mobile app, and the Ventra website. Key changes include:

• Ventra Wallet Updates – Users can load the updated fare amounts via the app or at ticket vending machines.
• Contactless Payment – The CTA’s partnership with major credit‑card providers will continue, but the app will display the new fare rates on the “Pay” screen.
• Transfer Policies – A 2‑hour transfer window will remain in place for those buying single rides, and unlimited‑ride passes will be updated to reflect the new cost.

The CTA also plans to extend its partnership with the city’s “Smart Transit” program, offering discounted fares to seniors, veterans, and students who hold eligible identification cards.

Alternative Transportation Options

With the rise in CTA fares, many residents are considering other transportation alternatives, such as rideshare services, bike‑sharing, and car‑pooling. The CTA has, however, encouraged the use of its network by highlighting its extensive coverage of Chicago’s neighborhoods and its commitment to sustainability. According to the agency, the city’s average car‑ownership rate has remained stable, indicating that many still rely on public transit for daily travel.

The CTA’s website (https://www.transitchicago.com/fare/) provides detailed information on the new fare structure, payment methods, and FAQs. The site also hosts a comparison tool that helps riders estimate cost differences between the old and new rates for different travel patterns.

Looking Ahead

The fare increase is just one component of the CTA’s broader strategy to ensure the long‑term viability of Chicago’s transit system. City planners are currently drafting a multi‑year budget that includes additional revenue streams, such as a small “mobility tax” on corporate vehicles and a proposed public‑private partnership for a new high‑speed rail corridor. Meanwhile, the CTA Board has scheduled a series of community forums in the coming months to address rider concerns and gather feedback on the upcoming changes.

While the 11 % rise may feel uncomfortable for some, it represents a compromise between maintaining affordable service and addressing the financial realities facing public transportation. As Chicago moves forward, the success of the new fare structure will be measured not only by the dollars collected but also by the quality and reliability of service delivered to the city’s residents.