Lewis BarbaraSuburban trains
Suburban trains are an affordable way to travel in metropolitan areas. Tickets can be slightly more expensive than bus or metro fares and increase with distance. Unlike bus or subway fares, which are fixed and allow passengers to get on and off wherever they want, commuter train fares are distance-based.
When buying a ticket you will need to indicate where you will be getting off the train. There are also discount options for people who plan to use the train more often. Some commuter trains offer discounts for round trips, 10 trips and monthly passes.
Buy your commuter train tickets at the station. Reduced fares may be available for minors, seniors, people with disabilities, students and military personnel.
Here are some examples of commuter train fares:
MTA Long Island Rail Road (New York metropolitan area) – from $6.50 to $37
NJ Transit Rail (New York – New Jersey) – from $1.50 to $11.50
Metra Rail (Chicago) – from $4 to $8.25
Intercity trains
Long-distance trains are usually more expensive than other high-speed modes of transport. However, the comfort and stunning scenery can be worth the cost.
There are four categories of tickets, from least to most expensive: unreserved coach, reserved coach, business class and first class. You can purchase tickets online, through the Amtrak mobile app, by phone, at an Amtrak station or through a certified travel agent.
Examples of bus fares without reservation on popular Amtrak routes:
Adirondack – from $70
California Zephyr – from $141
Coast Starlight – from $50
Tips for traveling by train in the USA
Get a train ticket. If you plan to stay for a long time in an area where there is a commuter rail line, consider buying a ticket for multiple trips. You can also download the train company’s app to cut down on paper.
Don’t travel during rush hour – save money on commuter trains by traveling during off-peak hours.
Use commuter trains on the East Coast – commuter trains are especially popular in the Northeast corridor (between Boston and Washington, DC). Among the famous stops on this route are New York, Philadelphia and Baltimore.
Book early – Amtrak fares are dynamic, meaning tickets are cheaper the earlier you book. Travelers can book tickets up to 11 months in advance.
Buy a pass – for more flexible intercity train travel, consider a US Pass. Tickets are available for 15, 30 and 45-day periods and include up to 18 one-way segments.