Metra uses a zone-based fare system, meaning the cost of your ticket depends on how many of the four zones you travel through. These zones are based on distance from downtown Chicago, with Zone 1 being downtown and Zones 2-4 being the suburbs. The further you travel from downtown, the more zones you pass through and the higher the fare will be.
How does Metra’s zone fare system work?
Here’s a more detailed breakdown
- Zones: Metra’s service area is divided into four zones, with Zone 1 being downtown Chicago (Union Station, Ogilvie Transportation Center, and Millennium Station).
- Distance-Based Fares: One-way tickets, Day Passes, and Monthly Passes are priced based on the number of zones you travel through.
- Ticket Examples:
- One-way tickets from Zone 2 into the city cost $3.75.
- One-way tickets from Zone 3 into downtown cost $5.50.
- One-way tickets from Zone 4 into the city cost $6.75.
- Regional Day Pass: Metra also offers a Regional Day Pass, which allows unlimited rides on Metra, CTA, and Pace for a day.
- Reduced Fares: Reduced fares are available for seniors, people with disabilities, low-income riders, military personnel, families, students, and children, according to Metra.
- Weekend Passes: Weekend passes are available for a flat rate, including a Saturday, Sunday, or Holiday Day Pass for $7 and a Weekend Pass (on the Ventra app only) for $10.
- Fare Calculator: You can use the Metra fare calculator or the fare table to determine the cost of your trip based on your origin and destination stations.