L.A. Metro Hits 21 Months of Ridership Growth
L.A. Metro records 27 million August boardings, reaching 84% of 2019 levels
L.A. Metro Hits 21 Months of Ridership Growth
Greater Los Angeles commuters are returning to public transit in growing numbers as L.A. Metro marks its 21st straight month of year-over-year ridership gains. The agency recorded 27,066,446 boardings in August, reaching 84 percent of pre-pandemic levels from August 2019, according to data released September 30. The sustained growth shows riders increasingly view Metro as their preferred travel option.
Recovery Reflects Broader Transit Trends
The ridership recovery follows patterns seen across major U.S. transit systems as pandemic-era restrictions have lifted and commuters adjust to new work arrangements. Transit agencies nationwide have reported gradual increases in boardings since 2022, though most haven't reached pre-2020 levels. Metro's performance places it among systems showing stronger recovery rates compared to agencies in other major metropolitan areas. The consistent monthly gains over nearly two years indicate the recovery isn't just a temporary spike but reflects changing transportation habits across the region.
Weekend Rail Surpasses 2019 Levels
Metro's weekend rail ridership has exceeded pre-pandemic numbers, transit officials said, marking a significant shift in how residents use the system. The weekend performance suggests riders are choosing rail for leisure trips, shopping, and social activities beyond traditional weekday commuting. Officials didn't provide specific weekend ridership figures or percentage increases compared to 2019 levels. The weekend rail milestone indicates growing confidence in Metro's network for non-work travel throughout Greater Los Angeles.
August Data Shows Steady Progress
The August boardings represent the latest data point in Metro's recovery trajectory, with the agency tracking monthly performance against 2019 benchmarks. Officials released the ridership figures on September 30, continuing their practice of publishing monthly statistics. The 84 percent recovery rate in August shows gradual progress toward full pre-pandemic ridership levels. Metro hasn't announced projections for when it expects to reach 100 percent of 2019 ridership numbers.
Riders Can Track Real-Time Service
The ridership growth affects service across Metro's bus and rail network throughout Greater Los Angeles. Riders navigating the expanding system can access real-time arrival information and service updates through Moovit, which provides current schedules and route planning for Metro's bus lines and rail services. The continued ridership increases suggest Metro will maintain current service levels as demand grows. Officials said they'll continue monitoring boardings to inform future service planning decisions.
