NYC Ferry to increase fares starting October 19

The New York City Economic Development Corporation (EDC) board has approved a new fare structure for the NYC Ferry, set to take effect on October 19. The changes include increasing the price of a single ride from $4.50 to $5.00 and raising the cost of a 10-trip pass from $29 to $30.

Discounted fares for seniors, students, people with disabilities, and low-income riders will see a minor adjustment from $1.45 to $1.50. The board is also considering expanding discount eligibility to include all NYC middle school students. Additionally, the $15 two-day unlimited pass, which was previously a pilot program, will become a permanent option.

The fare hike aims to increase passenger revenue and support continued service growth. While the ferry system has seen significant ridership growth, reaching over 7.3 million passengers between July 2025 and July 2026, it remains heavily reliant on government subsidies. According to EDC data, the per-passenger subsidy in 2025 was $8.33, which officials noted is the lowest level in the system's history.