San Diego transit fare hike plans from MTS and NCTD are moving through regional approval. The agencies share the PRONTO fare system. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

MTS and NCTD advance San Diego fare hike plan
Photo: San Diego MTS, MTS and NCTD advance San Diego fare hike plan

The proposed changes are intended to address budget gaps and support separate financial sustainability strategies.

Both boards recommended what would be the first significant fare increase since 2009. The proposal now goes to the SANDAG Transportation Committee. Final fare ordinance adoption is anticipated in May and June. If approved, the changes would begin this fall. The rollout would unfold over two years. The second increase is set for fall 2027. For riders, that would mean higher pass prices and changes to the COASTER fare structure.

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What the San Diego transit fare hike would change?

Under the recommendation, MTS and NCTD monthly passes would rise later this year. Adult passes would move from $72 to $85. Passes for seniors, disabled riders, and Medicare recipients would move from $23 to $28. In the second phase, scheduled for fall 2027, those monthly pass prices would rise again. Adult passes would increase to $95. SDM passes would increase to $30.

NCTD’s COASTER service would also shift to a flat-fare model this fall. One-way COASTER fares would reflect the current Zone 3 price. That would mean $6.50 for adults and $3.25 for SDM riders. Monthly COASTER passes would increase to $185 for adults and $60 for SDM riders. Additional changes affecting other MTS and NCTD services would also apply.

Why MTS and NCTD are seeking higher fares?

Officials said the fare increase is part of a wider set of strategies. They said the effort is aimed at pushing past the fiscal cliff. The goal is to find sustainable, long-term funding for vital transit service in San Diego. Officials also said the financial pressure reflects problems seen at transit agencies nationwide.

Those challenges include rising workforce costs, higher operating expenses, flat sales tax revenues, and limited local funding. In that context, the proposed fare increase is one element. It is part of a broader response to the agencies’ current financial conditions.

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