Passenger railroads see a sharp jump in ridership as gas prices climb
Ridership on U.S. passenger railroads has increased significantly as national gas prices rise above $4.30 per gallon, prompting more travelers to consider trains as a cost-effective alternative to driving. Amtrak reported a 5% ridership increase in March compared to the previous year, while Florida's Brightline saw a more than 20% surge in the same period. Factors such as high fuel costs, tolls, parking fees, and airport security delays are contributing to the shift toward rail travel.
- ▪Amtrak reported a 5% increase in ridership in March 2026 compared to March 2025.
- ▪Brightline recorded over a 20% increase in ridership in March 2026, marking its best month in history.
- ▪The average national price of gasoline reached $4.30 per gallon, the highest since the start of the war in Iran two months prior.
- ▪Travelers cite high driving costs, including gas, tolls, and parking, as key reasons for switching to train travel.
- ▪Amtrak and Brightline officials acknowledge rising fuel prices as a factor in increased ridership, alongside lower ticket prices and airport delays.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
National Passenger railroads see a sharp jump in ridership as gas prices climb May 1, 20265:00 AM ET Heard on Morning Edition Joel Rose Passenger railroads see a sharp jump in ridership as gas prices climb Audio will be available later today. Travelers board an Acela train at Union Station in Washington, D.C. in November, 2024. Amtrak reported a 5% increase in ridership in March compared to the year before. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images hide caption toggle caption Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images WASHINGTON — As the average price of gas climbs above four dollars a gallon, ridership on U.S. passenger railroads is surging, too. Amtrak, the national passenger railroad, reported a five percent increase in ridership in March compared with a year ago.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at NPR Topics: News.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from NPR Topics: News
