MTA Approves Connecticut Fare Hike: 10% Increase on New Haven Line

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has approved a 10% fare hike for Connecticut's Metro-North Railroad commuters. The increase will be divided into two 5% hikes, one on September 1 and the other on July 1, 2026. The fare hike is expected to generate $1.4 million this year, $16.1 million in 2026, and $20.5 million in 2027. Riders from Greenwich to Manhattan will see a monthly pass increase from $280 to $294.75, while riders from Waterbury to Manhattan will see a monthly pass increase from $424.75 to $449.25.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has approved a 10% fare hike for Connecticut's Metro-North Railroad commuters. The increase will be implemented in two stages: a 5% hike on September 1, followed by another 5% increase on July 1, 2026. The fare hike is expected to generate significant revenue, with projections showing $1.4 million this year, $16.1 million in 2026, and $20.5 million in 2027 [1].

The approval comes as a result of Connecticut's request for the fare increase, which was voted in by the MTA's board. The fare hike will affect the portion of the New Haven Line that runs through Connecticut. The state's Department of Transportation (DOT) will make a final decision on the proposed increase by August 1, according to Joe Cooper, a spokesman for the department [2].

The anticipated fare boost will impact commuters traveling between various points in Connecticut and Manhattan. For instance, riders from Greenwich, Connecticut, to Manhattan will see their monthly pass increase from $280 to $294.75, while those traveling from Waterbury to Manhattan will see their monthly pass increase from $424.75 to $449.25 [1].

The fare hike is aimed at addressing a funding gap created by the state's budget. The Connecticut DOT has stated that the increases are necessary to maintain current rail service levels and avoid service reductions [2]. The MTA has a history of raising fares by as much as 4% every other year since 2009, with the exception of 2021 when fare hikes were paused due to COVID-19 [3].

The approval of the fare hike follows several public hearings and discussions by the MTA board. While some board members expressed concerns about the 10% increase, officials agreed to further discussions and a vote on the proposal [3].

References:
[1] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-30/mta-approves-connecticut-s-10-fare-hike-on-its-rail-commuters
[2] https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/dot-looking-for-fare-increase-on-metro-north/3618316/
[3] https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/metro-north-fare-hikes-mta-connecticut/