CTA To Raise Fares 25 Cents Per Ride As Fiscal Cliff Looms

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) will implement a 25-cent fare increase effective February 1, raising bus fares to $2. 50 and train fares to $2. 75. This adjustment, the first since 2018, is part of the CTA's 2026 budget recommendations and is aimed at generating additional revenue as the agency faces a significant budget gap. Prices for one-day and seven-day passes will also increase to $6 and $25, respectively, while the three-day pass will be eliminated to streamline offerings.

Agency leaders cited the need for fare adjustments due to long-standing inflation and operational cost pressures. The CTA is under pressure to secure funding ahead of a state legislature veto session, with a significant budget deficit remaining despite recent tax revenue improvements. Officials have cautioned that without state support, deep service cuts could occur. The Regional Transportation Authority previously transferred funds to help the CTA delay its fiscal cliff, but fare increases are also expected from other transit agencies like Metra and Pace. Local lawmakers have called for reforms regarding CTA operations as part of any potential funding deal.