Commuter Rail: Most Systems Struggling to Recover Ridership Following the COVID-19 Pandemic

Nearly five years after the pandemic began, most U.S. commuter rail systems are still struggling to regain pre-COVID ridership levels, despite restoring or exceeding service levels. While some systems have expanded hours, added fare incentives, and pursued service adaptations, fare revenue remains significantly down, and operating costs have risen due to inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain issues. Agencies have leaned heavily on federal relief funding, much of which has now been depleted, creating financial uncertainty for long-term operations. Without sustainable funding and ridership recovery, many systems face difficult choices that could impact the future of commuter rail across the country.