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MTA Fare and Toll Hikes Take Effect Sunday as Subway Ride Hits $3

MTA leaders say the hike keeps fares aligned with inflation.

Overview

  • The base fare for subways, local buses and Access-A-Ride rises to $3 on Jan. 4, with single-ride tickets at $3.50 and express bus fares at $7.25, while the reduced fare becomes $1.50.
  • Riders keep a rolling seven-day cap with free trips after 12 taps, capping weekly costs at $35 for most riders, $17.50 for reduced-fare users and $67 for unlimited express use.
  • MetroCard sales and refills ended Jan. 1 as the system transitions to OMNY, with MetroCards still accepted into 2026 and a $2 OMNY card fee to begin once MetroCard acceptance ends.
  • Tolls on all MTA bridges and tunnels increase 7.5%, including an E‑ZPass rate of $7.46 on major crossings, with resident discount programs remaining in place.
  • LIRR and Metro‑North weekly and monthly tickets rise up to 4.5% and other ticket types up to 8%, with an $8 onboard or late activation surcharge and new rules requiring ticket activation before boarding.