The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has approved a fare increase that will raise the base subway cost from $2.90 to $3.00 starting January 2026, while also boosting fares on the Long Island Rail Road, Metro-North, and tolls at MTA bridges and tunnels.
MTA CEO Janno Lieber described it as a “modest fare increase,” though some board members pushed back, acknowledging the financial strain on low-income New Yorkers. One rider at the meeting loudly denounced the decision, shouting, “You guys are pathetic.”
The hike comes after the MTA has already collected $449.4 million from its new congestion pricing system through August, even as the agency reportedly loses up to $1 billion per year to fare evasion. Board discussions revealed internal tensions over balancing capital funding needs with affordability for commuters.