New York City Residents Face Higher Bus Fares Despite Promises
New York City’s new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, who identifies as a democratic socialist, campaigned on a promise to make the city’s buses “fast and free.” However, riders are about to experience the opposite: fare increases.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), which is in charge of the bus system, will be raising fares in the coming days.
Starting January 4th, the base fare for subways, local buses, and Access-A-Ride will go up by 10 cents, from $2.90 to $3. The reduced fare will also increase, from $1.45 to $1.50, according to the MTA.
Another change has already taken effect on New Year’s Day. As of January 1, 2026, the MTA will no longer sell or refill MetroCards.
Sometime during 2026, the MetroCard will stop being accepted altogether. The MTA also plans to stop accepting coins as payment for bus fares.
These changes mean that riders will need to adapt to a new system. According to the MTA, those who still have a valid MetroCard can transfer its value to an OMNY card at a customer service center. Riders can also use up the remaining value on their MetroCards before they expire by paying for subway and bus rides.
Once buses stop accepting cash, riders will still be able to use cash and coins to add value to an OMNY card at vending machines in every subway station and at more than 2,700 retail locations.
These fare hikes raise questions about the future of public transportation in New York City. While some argue that increased fares are necessary to maintain and improve the system, others worry that they will disproportionately affect low-income residents who rely on public transportation to get to work, school, and other essential services.
The mayor’s original promise of “fast and free” buses appealed to many voters who are struggling to make ends meet in an expensive city. The reality of rising fares, however, highlights the challenges of implementing socialist policies in a complex economic environment.
Many believe that responsible fiscal management and a focus on efficient operations are the keys to ensuring affordable and reliable public transportation. Instead of pursuing unrealistic promises, officials should focus on finding practical solutions that benefit all New Yorkers, while being mindful of the financial burdens placed on hardworking families.
