Metra Tickets are valid for one-way, round-trip, or monthly travel on all Metra commuter services. This guide provides information on how to purchase tickets using digital methods via the Metra Mobile app, station kiosks, or directly on the train. Fares are distance-based, and options include single-ride, 10-ride, and monthly passes, tailored to your individual commuter needs.

Senior, student, and child discounts are available. Knowing your fare zone will assist you in choosing the correct ticket for your journey. This all-encompassing fare guide allows you to plan your travel with ease – and for less – to make the most of your daily or occasional Metra ride.

Types of Metra Tickets

Single-ride tickets: Good for a single trip between two fare zones; best for infrequent riders.
10-ride tickets: Slightly cheaper for the occasional, but not everyday, commuter; good for multiple trips.
Monthly pass: Unlimited rides for a month within chosen zones; the best option for daily commuters.
Weekend passes: A pass for unlimited use on the weekends, a perfect choice for recreation and travel outside of rush hour.
Special passes: Lower rates for the elderly, students, and children to ensure cheaper travel for everyone.

Metra Fare Structure & Zones

Zone	Description	Approximate Fare	Example Route
Zone A	Downtown Chicago & closest areas	$4	Union Station to Ogilvie Station
Zone B	Nearby suburbs	$5 - $6	Chicago to Oak Park
Zone C	Mid-range suburbs	$6 - $7	Chicago to Elmhurst
Zone D	Further suburbs	$7 - $8	Chicago to Naperville
Zone E	Outer suburbs	$8 - $9	Chicago to Joliet
Zone F	Farther outer suburbs	$9 - $10	Chicago to Antioch
Zone G+	Most distant suburbs	$10+	Chicago to Harvard

Metra Weekday Fares Details

Zone	Single-Ride Ticket	10-Ride Ticket	Monthly Pass	Description
Zone A	$4.00	$36.00	$100.00	Downtown Chicago & closest suburbs
Zone B	$5.00	$45.00	$130.00	Nearby suburbs
Zone C	$6.00	$54.00	$160.00	Mid-range suburbs
Zone D	$7.00	$63.00	$190.00	Further suburbs
Zone E	$8.00	$72.00	$220.00	Outer suburbs
Zone F	$9.00	$81.00	$250.00	Farther outer suburbs
Zone G+	$10.00	$90.00	$280.00	Most distant suburbs

Metra Weekends’ Fare Details

Zone	Single-Ride Ticket	Weekend Pass	Description
Zone A	$4.00	$10.00	Downtown Chicago & closest suburbs
Zone B	$5.00	$12.50	Nearby suburbs
Zone C	$6.00	$15.00	Mid-range suburbs
Zone D	$7.00	$17.50	Further suburbs
Zone E	$8.00	$20.00	Outer suburbs
Zone F	$9.00	$22.50	Farther outer suburbs
Zone G+	$10.00	$25.00	Most distant suburbs

Metra Train Tickets for Kids, Women, Men & Seniors

Category	Age / Eligibility	Ticket Type	Discount	Purchase Options	Notes / Special Rules	Fare Charges (One-Way by Zone)*
Kids	7–11 years old	Single Ride	50% off	Station, Vending Machine, App	Children under 7 ride free with adult (max 3)	Zone 1–2: $1.88, Zone 1–3: $2.75, Zone 1–4: $3.38
		10-Ride	50% off	Station, Vending Machine, App	Valid for 90 days	Same discount on full fare
		Monthly Pass	50% off	Station, App	Unlimited rides monthly	Based on selected zone
Women	Adult females	All Ticket Types	None	Station, Vending Machine, App	Same fares as adult men	Full fare by zone
Men	Adult males	All Ticket Types	None	Station, Vending Machine, App	Standard adult fares	Full fare by zone
Adults	12–64 years old	Single Ride	None	Station, Vending Machine, App	Standard adult fare	Zone 1–2: $3.75, Zone 1–3: $5.50, Zone 1–4: $6.75
		10-Ride	None	Station, Vending Machine, App	Valid 90 days	Same as single ride
		Monthly Pass	None	Station, App	Unlimited rides monthly	Zone 2-1: $75, Zone 3-1: $110, Zone 4-1: $135
Seniors	65+ years old	Single Ride	50% off	Station, Vending Machine, App	ID required	Half of adult fare
		10-Ride	50% off	Station, Vending Machine, App	Can be shared between trips	Half of adult fare
		Monthly Pass	50% off	Station, App	Unlimited rides monthly	Half of adult monthly pass
Disabled/Veterans	All ages	Single Ride	50% off	Station, Vending Machine, App	Proper ID or reduced fare permit required	Half of adult fare
		10-Ride	50% off	Station, Vending Machine, App	—	Half of adult fare
		Monthly Pass	50% off	Station, App	—	Half of adult monthly pass
Kids under 7	0–6 years old	Free Ride	100%	—	Up to 3 children free per paying adult	Free

Metra Tickets at a Glance

Ticket Type	Best For	Current Full Fare*
One-Way	One trip	$3.75–$6.75
Day Pass	Multiple rides in one day	$7.50–$13.50
Day Pass 5-Pack	Occasional riders	$35.75–$64.25
Monthly Pass	Frequent commuters	$75–$135
Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass	One weekend/holiday day	$7
Weekend Pass	Saturday + Sunday	$10
Regional Connect Pass	Metra + CTA/Pace monthly travel	Monthly Pass + $30

*Prices vary according to the zones covered. Reduced fares are available to eligible riders.

What Are Metra Tickets?

Metra tickets are fare products used for travel on the Metra commuter rail system throughout the Chicago metropolitan area.

Metra’s fare system is based on zones rather than individual station-to-station pricing. The current structure uses four fare zones:

Zone 1: Downtown Chicago
Zone 2: Inner suburban stations
Zone 3: More distant suburban stations
Zone 4: Outer suburban stations

The fare you pay depends on the zones covered by your journey.

Metra’s zoned ticket products are generally valid across its rail lines when the ticket covers the appropriate zones for the trip.

Metra Fare Zones Explained

The four-zone system makes it easier to understand how Metra calculates fares.

For example, a passenger traveling from a Zone 3 station to downtown Chicago in Zone 1 needs a ticket covering Zones 1, 2, and 3.

A passenger traveling between two suburban stations without entering Zone 1 uses the applicable 2-3-4 fare structure.

Metra’s fare chart specifically states that trips not going to Zone 1 should use the 2-3-4 pricing.

Metra Fare Zone Examples

Trip Type	Applicable Fare Structure
Zone 2 → Zone 1	1-2
Zone 3 → Zone 1	1-2-3
Zone 4 → Zone 1	1-2-3-4
Zone 2 → Zone 3	2-3-4
Zone 3 → Zone 4	2-3-4
Zone 2 → Zone 4	2-3-4

The exact station zone should be checked before purchasing a ticket.

Metra One-Way Ticket

The Metra One-Way Ticket is designed for a single continuous trip within the selected fare zones.

It is generally the simplest option for passengers who are making one trip and do not need unlimited travel during the day.

Current Full One-Way Fares

Fare Coverage	Price
Zones 1–2	$3.75
Zones 1–2–3	$5.50
Zones 1–2–3–4	$6.75
Zones 2–3–4	$3.75

Reduced-fare versions are also available to eligible riders.

When Should You Buy a One-Way Ticket?

A One-Way Ticket can make sense when:

You are taking only one trip.
You do not need unlimited rides that day.
You are making a simple one-direction journey.
A Day Pass would provide more coverage than you need.

Metra’s fare policy states that a One-Way Ticket is valid for one continuous trip within the specified zones.

Metra Day Pass

The Metra Day Pass provides unlimited rides during a service day within the zones selected.

It can be useful when you expect to take several Metra trips during the same day.

Current Full-Fare Day Pass Prices

Fare Coverage	Day Pass Price
Zones 1–2	$7.50
Zones 1–2–3	$11.00
Zones 1–2–3–4	$13.50
Zones 2–3–4	$7.50

The Day Pass expires at 3 a.m. the following day.

Who Should Consider a Metra Day Pass?

A Day Pass may be useful for:

Travelers making multiple Metra trips in one day
Visitors exploring multiple suburban destinations
Commuters making several rail journeys
Passengers making a round trip where unlimited travel provides additional flexibility

Metra Day Pass 5-Pack

The Day Pass 5-Pack is designed for riders who need several individual days of unlimited Metra travel but do not need a monthly pass.

It is available through the Ventra app and provides five Day Passes that can be used on any five days within 90 days of purchase. Metra says the product provides a 5% savings compared with purchasing five individual Day Passes.

Day Pass 5-Pack Prices

Fare Coverage	5-Pack Price
Zones 1–2	$35.75
Zones 1–2–3	$52.25
Zones 1–2–3–4	$64.25
Zones 2–3–4	$35.75

The Day Pass 5-Pack can also be shared by up to five people traveling together, according to Metra’s fare chart.

Metra Monthly Pass

The Metra Monthly Pass is intended for frequent riders.

A Monthly Pass provides unlimited Metra travel for a calendar month between the selected zones on weekdays and systemwide on weekends.

Metra says the Monthly Pass can offer savings for passengers who ride more than two days per week.

Current Monthly Pass Prices

Fare Coverage	Monthly Pass
Zones 1–2	$75
Zones 1–2–3	$110
Zones 1–2–3–4	$135
Zones 2–3–4	$75

Eligible reduced-fare riders pay lower amounts.

Who Needs a Metra Monthly Pass?

A Monthly Pass may be worth considering if you:

Commute regularly by Metra.
Travel several days each week.
Frequently travel between the same fare zones.
Also want weekend systemwide Metra travel.

The exact value depends on how frequently you ride and the fare zones covered.

Metra Weekend Pass

Metra offers a Weekend Pass through the Ventra app for unlimited systemwide Metra travel on Saturday and Sunday.

The current full fare is:

$10

The pass remains valid until 3 a.m. on the day following the weekend.

This can be useful for passengers planning multiple Metra journeys during a weekend.

Saturday, Sunday & Holiday Day Pass

Metra also offers a Saturday, Sunday, or Holiday Day Pass.

The current price is:
$7
It provides unlimited systemwide Metra travel on the selected Saturday, Sunday, or major holiday and expires at 3 a.m. the following day.
This option can be useful when you need unlimited Metra travel for only one weekend day or holiday.

Metra Regional Connect Pass

The Regional Connect Pass is designed for frequent Metra riders who also use CTA or Pace.

It must be purchased together with a Monthly Pass.

The cost is:

Monthly Pass price + $30

It provides unlimited trips on:

Metra
CTA buses
CTA trains
Pace buses

during the applicable calendar month.

This option can be particularly relevant for commuters who use Metra for the suburban portion of a trip and CTA or Pace for local transportation.

Where Can You Buy Metra Tickets?

Metra tickets can be purchased through available Metra ticketing channels, including the Ventra app, station ticket vending machines, and onboard in applicable circumstances.

Metra’s fare materials identify purchase options for different ticket types.

1. Ventra App

The Ventra app is a convenient option for purchasing many Metra ticket products from your phone.

It can be particularly useful because you can purchase certain products before reaching the station.

2. Station Ticket Machines

Many Metra stations have ticket vending machines.

However, not every Metra station has the same ticketing facilities, so passengers should check their specific station before traveling.

3. Buying on the Train

Metra allows certain tickets to be purchased onboard.

However, fare policies can apply depending on where you boarded and whether ticket-purchasing facilities were available at that station.

Metra’s fare policy states that a One-Way Ticket purchased onboard from a conductor can be subject to a $5 surcharge when boarding at a station where tickets are sold.

For that reason, passengers should purchase their ticket before boarding whenever practical.

How to Buy Metra Tickets on the Ventra App

If you are using the Ventra app, the basic process is:

Open the Ventra app.
Select Metra.
Choose your departure and destination information.
Select the appropriate ticket or pass.
Complete the purchase.
Activate the ticket according to the applicable rules.
Keep the ticket available on your phone during your trip.

Different ticket products have different validity rules, so check the details displayed when purchasing.

For example, Metra’s fare policy says Ventra One-Way Tickets must be used within 14 days including the purchase date.

Metra Ticket Prices: Full Fare vs. Reduced Fare

Metra provides reduced fares for certain eligible riders.

According to Metra’s published fare chart, eligible categories include:

Senior citizens age 65 or older
Customers with disabilities
Medicare cardholders with an RTA-issued Metra Reduced Fare Permit
Eligible low-income customers enrolled in SNAP with an RTA-issued Access Permit
K-12 students
Active-duty military personnel with identification

Eligibility requirements and required identification or permits can apply.

Passengers should verify their eligibility and required documentation before purchasing a reduced-fare ticket.

Metra Reduced Fare Tickets

Reduced fares lower the cost of qualifying Metra trips.

The current published reduced-fare prices include:

Fare Coverage	Reduced One-Way	Reduced Day Pass
Zones 1–2	$1.75	$3.50
Zones 1–2–3	$2.75	$5.50
Zones 1–2–3–4	$3.25	$6.50
Zones 2–3–4	$1.75	$3.50

Eligibility requirements apply.

Metra Tickets for Students

Eligible K-12 students can qualify for Metra reduced fares with the required identification.

Students should make sure they have the appropriate identification before attempting to use a reduced-fare ticket.

For college students, eligibility can differ, so it is important to check the current Metra and RTA requirements rather than assuming that all students automatically receive reduced fares.

Metra Tickets for Seniors

Passengers age 65 or older can qualify for Metra reduced fares under the applicable eligibility requirements.

Reduced fares are available for eligible senior riders, but documentation or an appropriate permit may be required depending on the ticket and program.

Metra Tickets for Children

Fare rules for children depend on age and applicable Metra policies.

Parents or guardians traveling with children should check the current Metra fare rules before purchasing tickets, particularly when traveling with several children or using reduced fares.

Metra Tickets for Military Personnel

Metra’s published fare chart identifies active-duty military personnel with identification as eligible for reduced fares.

Eligible passengers should carry the required military identification while traveling.

Can You Buy Metra Tickets on the Train?

Yes, Metra permits onboard ticket purchases in applicable circumstances.

However, passengers boarding at stations where tickets are sold may face a surcharge when purchasing a One-Way Ticket from the conductor. Metra’s published policy identifies a $5 onboard surcharge in that situation.

The practical approach is to purchase your ticket before boarding whenever a ticket machine or Ventra option is available.

Do Metra Tickets Expire?

The expiration rules depend on the ticket type and how it was purchased.

For example:

Ventra One-Way Tickets must be used within 14 days including the purchase date.
One-Way Tickets purchased from vending machines or onboard are valid for the applicable trip and expire three hours after purchase.
Day Passes remain valid through the applicable service day and expire at 3 a.m. the following day.

Always check the specific ticket’s validity conditions.

Can You Use a Metra Ticket on Any Train?

A valid Metra ticket is generally usable for the trip and fare zones specified by that ticket, subject to Metra’s fare rules.

However, passengers should ensure that:

The ticket covers the correct zones.
The train serves the desired destination.
Any applicable route or service restrictions are followed.
The ticket is valid for the travel date and time.

A ticket does not automatically mean that every train will stop at every station.

Can Metra Tickets Be Used on CTA?

A standard Metra ticket does not automatically provide unlimited CTA travel.

However, Metra offers the Regional Connect Pass for Monthly Pass holders who also need unlimited CTA and Pace travel during the applicable month.

The Regional Connect Pass costs the applicable Monthly Pass price plus $30.

Metra Ticket vs. Ventra Card

The Ventra app and Ventra system can be used to purchase and manage Metra fare products, but passengers should distinguish between:

Metra rail tickets
CTA/Pace fares
Metra passes
Regional Connect products

Your best option depends on whether you are traveling only on Metra or combining Metra with CTA and/or Pace.

Which Metra Ticket Should You Buy?

The right ticket depends primarily on how often you travel.

Your Travel Pattern	Ticket to Consider
One Metra trip	One-Way Ticket
Several Metra rides in one day	Day Pass
Five separate days of travel	Day Pass 5-Pack
Regular weekday commuting	Monthly Pass
Multiple weekend trips	Weekend Pass
One Saturday/Sunday/holiday	Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass
Metra + CTA/Pace every month	Regional Connect Pass

This is a practical guide rather than a recommendation for every rider; compare the current prices with your actual travel frequency.

How Much Is a Metra Ticket?

The price depends on the zones covered.

Current full-fare examples include:

One-Way: $3.75 to $6.75
Day Pass: $7.50 to $13.50
Day Pass 5-Pack: $35.75 to $64.25
Monthly Pass: $75 to $135
Weekend Pass: $10
Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Pass: $7

Reduced fares are available to eligible passengers.

Are Metra Tickets the Same Price on Every Line?

Metra’s current fare system is zone-based, so the price is determined by the zones covered rather than simply by which Metra line you use.

This means two passengers traveling on completely different Metra lines can pay the same fare if their trips cover the same applicable zones.

The four-zone system applies across Metra’s rail network, subject to the applicable fare rules.

Tips for Buying Metra Tickets

Buy before boarding when possible

Using the Ventra app or a station vending machine can help avoid an onboard surcharge where applicable.

Check the zones

Make sure your ticket covers the complete journey.

Choose a pass based on your travel frequency

If you are making multiple rides in one day, compare a Day Pass with individual One-Way Tickets.

Consider the Day Pass 5-Pack

Occasional frequent riders may find the five-pass option useful because the passes can be used on different days within the applicable validity period.

Check reduced-fare eligibility

If you qualify for a reduced fare, make sure you have the required permit or identification.

Keep your ticket available

Conductors may inspect tickets during the journey, so keep your mobile or paper ticket accessible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a Metra ticket?

Current full-fare One-Way Tickets range from $3.75 to $6.75, depending on the fare zones covered.

Can I buy Metra tickets online?

Yes. Metra tickets and passes can be purchased through the Ventra app, while applicable ticket types can also be purchased at station vending machines.

Can I buy a Metra ticket on the train?

Yes, but an onboard surcharge can apply when boarding at a station where tickets are sold. Metra’s published policy specifies a $5 surcharge in that situation.

Does Metra have a mobile ticket?

Yes. The Ventra app supports Metra ticket purchases, including One-Way Tickets, Day Passes, Day Pass 5-Packs, and other applicable products.

What is the cheapest Metra ticket?

The price depends on the fare zones and whether you qualify for a reduced fare. The lowest published full-fare One-Way price is $3.75.

Is there a Metra weekend pass?

Yes. Metra offers a Weekend Pass for $10 through the Ventra app, providing unlimited systemwide Metra travel on Saturday and Sunday.

Does Metra have a monthly pass?

Yes. Current full-fare Monthly Pass prices range from $75 to $135, depending on the zones covered.

Is there a Metra day pass?

Yes. Day Pass prices currently range from $7.50 to $13.50 for full-fare riders depending on the applicable zones.

Can I use a Metra Day Pass all day?

Yes. A Day Pass provides unlimited travel during the applicable service day within the zones selected and expires at 3 a.m. the following day.

Can I use a Metra ticket on another Metra line?

Metra’s zoned ticket products are generally valid across its rail lines when the ticket covers the applicable zones and trip. Always verify the ticket conditions for your particular journey.

What app do I use to buy Metra tickets?

The Ventra app is used for purchasing Metra mobile tickets and passes.

Do Metra tickets work on CTA?

Regular Metra tickets and CTA fares are separate. Riders who need unlimited Metra, CTA, and Pace travel can consider the Regional Connect Pass, which must be purchased with a Monthly Pass.

Can I get a reduced Metra fare?

Eligible seniors, customers with disabilities, qualifying Medicare cardholders, eligible SNAP participants, K-12 students, and active-duty military personnel can qualify for reduced fares under Metra’s applicable programs and documentation requirements.

Final Takeaway

Metra tickets are available in several formats to accommodate occasional passengers, daily commuters, weekend travelers, and riders who combine Metra with other Chicago-area transit.

The main options include One-Way Tickets, Day Passes, Day Pass 5-Packs, Monthly Passes, Weekend Passes, Saturday/Sunday/Holiday Day Passes, and Regional Connect Passes. Metra’s current four-zone fare structure determines the cost of many ticket types.