The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) has proposed raising fares for both rail and bus services beginning in July 2027, as part of its 2028 fiscal year budget plan. The suggested increases aim to bolster long-term revenue sustainability and address ongoing funding challenges.

Currently, rail fares within the WMATA system range from $2.25 to $6.75 based on trip length, while standard bus trips cost a flat fee of $2.25. Express bus routes command higher fares. Under the new proposal, rail fares would rise to a range of $2.50 to $7.50, and standard bus fares would increase to $2.50.

The fare structure last saw an adjustment in 2024. WMATA officials have cited the need to maintain financial stability and ensure the continued operation and improvement of transit services as key factors driving the proposed increases.

In addition to raising fares, WMATA is planning to expand its existing free-to-youth fare program, which currently benefits riders aged 5 to 18 in the District of Columbia, to include Maryland and Virginia. This move would extend fare-free travel to youths residing in those neighboring states.

The proposal is scheduled for discussion during a WMATA board of directors finance committee meeting on Thursday. If the board approves the changes, the higher fares would become effective in July 2027.

The fare increase comes in the wake of Metro’s ongoing efforts to reduce widespread fare evasion on bus lines. In 2024, WMATA reported that approximately 70 percent of bus riders did not pay fares. However, since launching a fare evasion campaign earlier this year, General Manager Randy Clarke noted an improvement, stating fare evasion has dropped by 10 to 12 percent as of August.

If adopted, the increase would result in a 25-cent hike in both the lowest rail fare and the standard bus fare starting next summer.