Berlin Social Ticket Price to Double Starting April

The cost of the Berlin-Ticket S will rise from €9 to €19 as part of the city's budget restructuring, drawing criticism from opposition parties.

The Berlin Senate plans to increase the monthly cost of the Berlin-Ticket S, a subsidized public transport pass for low-income residents, from €9 to €19 starting April 1, pending approval from the Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (VBB).
The price hike is part of a broader budget consolidation effort, with officials estimating €25 million in savings for the city's finances.
Introduced at €27.50, the ticket price was reduced to €9 in 2023 but will now rise again, affecting over 200,000 users who rely on it for affordable mobility.
Social Senator Cansel Kiziltepe (SPD) defended the decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the ticket's availability for those in need, despite the higher cost.
Critics, including the Left and Green parties, argue the increase exacerbates social inequality and prioritizes fiscal savings over the needs of vulnerable residents.