Caltrain raises base fare as ridership climbs and financial pressures mount
San Mateo County, California – Caltrain riders will now pay a little more to travel along the Peninsula, as the agency officially increased its base fare by 25 cents starting July 1.
Even though this change in fare is small, it is part of a bigger modification to Caltrain’s fare structure that took place in 2022. In July 2023, there were plans to raise prices by 50 cents and modify the prices of monthly passes. But those modifications were put off to help get ridership back up after the COVID-19 outbreak.
Caltrain is moving ahead with part of its previously agreed tariff plan now that ridership has gone up a lot—55% more in May 2025 than in May 2024. The base fare, which impacts all passengers no matter what zone they are in, is going up by 25 cents.
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Caltrain is currently providing the best service it has ever had, with 104 trains running every weekday and more alternatives on weekends. The recent introduction of electric trains, which has brought more people to the system, is one reason why service is expanding.
Caltrain faces serious financial challenges despite the fact that more people are using its services. Officials think that between 2027 and 2035, the agency will have an average annual loss of around $75 million. In response, Caltrain is looking for new ways to earn money, such as potential regional sales tax initiatives, and is also taking steps to cut costs within the company.
The transportation agency says that if there isn’t a long-term solution, it may have to think about making big cuts to service, closing stations, or other ways to save money in the future. Caltrain is working with partners in the area, the region, and the state to find outside sources of revenue that could help it get its finances in order.
Read also: Caltrain survey shows strong rider approval with safety and conductor performance praised
Caltrain continues to be an important part of the Bay Area’s transportation system. It connects San Francisco and San Jose by rail and offers longer commutes to Gilroy. The Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board runs Caltrain, which has been serving the area since 1863. It recently became the first major U.S. rail system in a generation to transition from diesel to electric.
Riders can find updated fare and schedule information at www.caltrain.com or by calling 1.800.660.4287.
