Chicago rail ridership growth: CTA, Metra post 2025 gains

Chicago rail ridership growth picked up in 2025 for both the Chicago Transit Authority and Metra, according to the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA). The RTA oversees finances and planning for CTA, Metra and the Pace suburban bus system.

CTA rail ridership 2025: service and accessibility upgrades

CTA reported a 6% increase in rail ridership in 2025 compared with the prior year, totaling 135.2 million rides. In the same press release, RTA officials said ridership was boosted by added service frequency and completed rail station accessibility projects, a point also covered by Progressive Railroading.

Don’t miss…Barrie Line GO train delays: signal issue and bus options

Metra ridership increase 2025 across key lines

Metra posted an 8% ridership increase to a total of 38 million rides. During 2025, it completed multiple station renovations and added more frequent service on the Union Pacific-North, UP-West and BNSF lines, RTA officials said. Metra also extended its reduced fare program to include low-income riders in Cook County.

Funding outlook after the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act

The RTA expects ridership will continue to grow in 2026 and beyond. Separately, it noted that Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the Northern Illinois Transit Authority (NITA) Act in December 2025, creating a dedicated funding source for Chicago-area transit agencies—an action also referenced by Railway Supply.

The legislation provided $1.2 billion in annual operating funding and an additional $180 million annually for capital projects.

News on railway transport, industry, and railway technologies from Railway Supply that you might have missed: