Overview

• In a Sept. 15 review of more than 300 authorities, the Cour des comptes labels universal free transit very costly and unsuited to large, already busy networks.
• The audit cites an average trip cost of €3.55 with only €0.76 paid by users, and notes that 2019 fares covered 41% of operating costs on average.
• Ridership spikes observed in cities like Niort, Dunkerque and Bourges largely reflect shifts from walking, cycling or previously inactive travelers rather than from cars.
• Montpellier’s 2023 move to free access lifted use about 27% but led to network saturation, lower satisfaction among regular riders and a reported €375 million annual burden.
• Auditors warn lost fare revenue threatens upgrades as the Senate pegs needs at €100 billion by 2030, with Nantes and Rennes pausing extensions while Artois plans to go fully free on Jan. 1.