LA Metrolink Cuts Fares 50% for Low-Income Riders

California EBT cardholders receive 50% discount on most Metrolink fares at ticket machines

Metrolink Cuts Fares 50% for EBT Cardholders

Metrolink riders with California EBT cards can now save 50% on most fares through the transit agency's Mobility-4-All program. The discount applies to tickets and passes purchased at Metrolink ticket machines across Southern California, transit officials said in January 2026. The program aims to make commuter rail service more affordable for low-income residents in the six-county service area, though officials haven't released data on how many riders are expected to participate.

Program Targets Low-Income Transit Access

The fare reduction is part of Metrolink's broader effort to improve transit equity across the region, according to the agency. Southern California's commuter rail system serves Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, and San Diego counties with 8 lines and 62 stations. Transit agencies nationwide have increasingly adopted income-based fare programs in recent years, with similar initiatives operating in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. Officials didn't provide specific details about when the Mobility-4-All program first launched or whether it represents an expansion of existing services.

Discount Excludes Some Fare Products

The 50% discount applies to most Metrolink tickets and passes but excludes the L.A. Zone Day Pass, officials said. Eligible riders must present their valid California EBT card at ticket vending machines to receive the reduced fare. The discount isn't available through other purchase methods, including online sales or mobile ticketing. Officials haven't said whether the program will expand to additional purchase channels in the future or why the L.A. Zone Day Pass was excluded from the discount.

Implementation Details Remain Limited

The program is currently active and available at Metrolink ticket machines throughout the service area. Officials didn't provide information about how long the Mobility-4-All program has been operating or whether recent changes expanded eligibility. The agency also hasn't released enrollment figures or usage statistics for the discount program. Transit officials said complete program details are available through Metrolink's reduced fare programs information.

Riders Can Access Discount at Stations

EBT cardholders can begin using the discount immediately at any Metrolink ticket machine by presenting their valid California EBT card during purchase. The 50% fare reduction makes commuter rail service more accessible for income-qualified residents across the six-county region. Riders can find real-time schedule information and trip planning tools through Moovit, which provides updates for Metrolink routes throughout Southern California.