New Jersey Transit announced new fares will go into effect beginning on Tuesday, July 1 — and riders can expect to pay more per ride.
The increase sets a new base fare for bus and light rail travel at $1.80, and rail travel begins at $1.70. The 3% increase was instituted to help fill a $106 million budget gap.
On NJ Transit, ticket prices vary by route and distance traveled. The cost to ride a bus will start at $1.80 for a one-zone ride, and goes all the way to $55. A one-way ride on light rail could range up to $2.55. A rail ticket will range in price from $1.70 to more than $23.
For assistance on-the-go, NJ Transit offers a trip planner.
How are fares determined on NJ Transit?
Fares are priced by number of zones traveled, route and by origin and destination.
To ride the bus, riders should follow these steps:
- Step 1: Download the NJ TRANSIT app.
- Step 2: Create an account and enter your credit/debit card information.
- Step 3: Select “Buy Tickets,” “Bus,” and “Origin and Destination.” If you’re transferring between buses, buy a ticket for each leg.
- Step 4: Activate your ticket upon boarding and show it to the driver.
See the full guide here if…
- Your route, origin, or destination aren’t listed.
- You don’t have a smartphone.
- You’re transferring to light rail.
For light rail service, commuters should follow these steps:
- Step 1: Download the NJ TRANSIT app. (You can also purchase tickets at the platform vending machines.)
- Step 2: Create an account and enter your credit/debit card information.
- Step 3: Tap “Buy Tickets,” “Light Rail,” and select your route.
- Step 4: Activate your ticket before boarding and keep it with you throughout your trip. (Insert it in the validator if using paper tickets.)
See the full guide here if…
- You’re transferring to a bus.
- You’re traveling between Newark Light Rail subway stations.
For rail service, commuters should do the following:
- Step 1: Download the NJ TRANSIT App. (Tickets are also available from vending machines on the platform.)
- Step 2: Create an account and enter your credit/debit card information.
- Step 3: Tap Buy Tickets, Rail and select your origin & destination stations.
- Step 4: Keep your ticket with you and show it to a conductor when asked.
Consult full guide below if…
- If you are traveling to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
- You are transferring between Newark Broad and Newark Penn via light rail.
The price breakdown listed here is for passengers paying full fare. For passengers ages 5-11 or 62 years old and up, information on discounted rates can be found here.
