Bus Ticket Price in San Diego: EveryThing You Need To Know

How much is bus fare in San Diego?

When it comes to public transportation in San Diego, the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates an extensive bus network that serves the city and surrounding areas. For those who are new to the city or planning to use the bus system, one of the most common questions is: how much is the bus fare in San Diego?

One-Way Fares

Let's start with the most common type of bus fare in San Diego, which is the one-way fare. As of 2021, the regular one-way fare for adults is $2.50. This means that if you are traveling from one point to another within the MTS service area, you will need to pay $2.50 for a single ride.

It's important to note that the $2.50 fare is for adults aged 18-59. There are discounted fares available for seniors (age 60 and above), persons with disabilities, and Medicare cardholders. For these groups, the one-way fare is $1.25.

For students, the one-way fare is also $1.25. However, to qualify for the student fare, students must have a valid student identification card issued by a participating educational institution. This fare is available for students in grades K-12 and college students.

Day Passes

If you plan on using the bus system frequently within a single day, it might be more cost-effective to purchase a day pass. The MTS offers a $6 day pass that allows unlimited rides on both buses and trolleys for a full day. The day pass is valid until the end of service on the day of purchase.

Just like with one-way fares, discounted day passes are available for seniors, persons with disabilities, Medicare cardholders, and students. The discounted day pass for these groups is $2.50.

Monthly Passes

For regular commuters or individuals who rely heavily on public transportation, purchasing a monthly pass can provide significant savings. The MTS offers a monthly pass for $72, which allows unlimited rides on buses and trolleys for an entire month.

Discounted monthly passes are available for seniors, persons with disabilities, Medicare cardholders, and students. The discounted monthly pass for these groups is $18.

Compass Card

To pay for bus fares in San Diego, the MTS uses a contactless smart card called the Compass Card. This reloadable card can be used to pay for one-way fares, day passes, and monthly passes. It offers a convenient and cashless way to pay for bus rides.

To use the Compass Card, simply tap it on the card reader located near the farebox when boarding the bus. The correct fare will be deducted from the card's balance. If you are using a day pass or a monthly pass, the card will be validated for unlimited rides within the specified timeframe.

Where to Purchase Bus Fares

Bus fares can be purchased in several ways:

• MTS Transit Store: Located at 12th and Imperial Transit Center in downtown San Diego. Fares can be purchased in person.
• Ticket Vending Machines: Found at trolley stations throughout San Diego. Fares can be purchased using cash, credit, or debit cards.
• Online: Bus passes and stored value can be purchased and loaded onto a Compass Card online through the MTS website.
• Retail Locations: Some retail locations, such as grocery stores and convenience stores, sell Compass Cards and can also reload them with fares.

Additional Information

It's important to keep in mind that bus fares in San Diego are subject to change. It's always a good idea to check the official MTS website for the most up-to-date fare information.

Also, while the one-way fare allows for transfers between different bus routes, it's important to note that transfers are not valid for round trips. If you need to return to your original destination, a new fare will be required.

Lastly, the MTS offers various discounted fare programs for low-income individuals and families. These programs provide reduced bus fares to eligible individuals. Information about these programs can be found on the MTS website or by contacting their customer service.

In conclusion, the bus fare in San Diego varies depending on the type of fare and the passenger's age group. The regular one-way fare for adults is $2.50, while discounted fares are available for seniors, persons with disabilities, Medicare cardholders, and students. Day passes and monthly passes are also available for unlimited rides within a specified timeframe. The Compass Card is used to pay for bus fares and can be purchased and reloaded at various locations. It's important to stay updated on fare information, as prices are subject to change. Overall, the bus fare in San Diego provides an affordable and convenient way to travel around the city and its surrounding areas.