# Metrolink fare increases in Southern California > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/metrolink-fare-increases-in-southern-california > Updated: 2026-10-06T04:52:34.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Metrolink, the Southern California regional commuter rail service, has implemented its first system-wide fare increase in 13 years. Effective October 5, the adjustments include a 27% increase for weekday SoCal Day Passes, rising from $15 to $19, and a 20% increase for weekend and holiday passes. One-way ticket prices have risen by an average of approximately 14%. Metrolink Chief Executive Darren Kettle stated the changes are necessary to address rising operating and maintenance costs, reduced state and federal funding, and a failure to recover pre-pandemic ridership levels. The agency noted that nearly 80% of one-way fare increases are less than $1, and existing discount programs for seniors, students, veterans, and low-income riders remain active. The decision has drawn criticism regarding transparency and the financial strain on commuters. State Senator Dave Cortese cautioned that such increases could be risky, warning of a potential ‘death spiral’ if higher costs lead to further drops in ridership. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-06: Metrolink implements first fare increase in 13 years Metrolink has raised Southern California commuter rail fares by an average of 14%, its first increase in 13 years, citing rising costs and lower post-pandemic ridership. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/metrolink-implements-first-fare-increase-in-13-years ### 2026-10-03: Metrolink implements first system-wide fare hike in 13 years Metrolink is raising commuter rail fares in Southern California by up to 27%, marking the first system-wide increase in 13 years due to rising costs and declining government funding. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/metrolink-implements-first-system-wide-fare-hike-in-13-years --- Cite as: Metrolink fare increases in Southern California. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/metrolink-fare-increases-in-southern-california