Public Transportation Costs in Redmond

What You’ll Spend on Transit in Redmond

Do you really need a car to get around Redmond? The answer may surprise you. While having your own wheels offers flexibility, public transportation costs in Redmond are quite reasonable – and the robust transit network can get you almost anywhere. A standard one-way bus fare is just $2.75, while a 30-day bus pass in Redmond typically costs $99. In cities like Redmond, a monthly transit pass typically runs between $60–$100 depending on coverage.

Of course, your total spend will depend on how often you ride. But for most residents, transit offers an affordable alternative to the high costs of car ownership, parking, and gas. Let’s take a closer look at the options available and what you can expect to pay.

Transit Options Available

Redmond is served by a variety of transit modes, making it easy to get around without a car. The primary providers are:

• King County Metro: Operates an extensive bus network with service to downtown Redmond, Overlake, and connections to Seattle
• Sound Transit: Runs the Link light rail with stops in Redmond and service to Bellevue, Seattle, and Sea-Tac Airport
• Community Transit: Provides commuter bus service connecting Redmond to Snohomish County

With frequent service and good coverage across the city, these transit providers offer a reliable way to commute to work, run errands, or enjoy a night out. And with a variety of fare options, there’s a solution to fit every budget and travel need.

Monthly Cost Breakdown

To give you a sense of what you might spend each month, here’s a breakdown for some common commuting scenarios in Redmond:

As you can see, a bus pass offers the best value for most regular commuters in Redmond. 🏆 Winner: The $99 monthly bus pass is your best bet for affordable, unlimited rides.

Is Public Transit Worth It in Redmond?

For many Redmond residents, public transit is a smart financial choice. When you factor in the costs of buying a car, insurance, gas, maintenance, and parking (which can run $20+ per day in downtown Redmond), a monthly transit pass can mean big savings.

What’s more, transit is often the faster way to get around, especially during rush hour. The average bus commute in Redmond is just 25 minutes, compared to 35+ minutes driving in heavy traffic. And with frequent service from early morning to late night, you can count on transit to get you where you need to go.

Of course, transit may not be the best fit for every lifestyle or neighborhood. Service is most frequent in downtown Redmond and the Overlake area, while outlying neighborhoods may have less coverage. And while Redmond is quite walkable, some errands may be easier with a car. As with any financial decision, it’s important to weigh the tradeoffs for your specific situation.

Ways to Save on Transit

Looking to stretch your transit dollar even further? Here are a few ways to save:

• Youth, seniors, and riders with disabilities can get 50% off standard fares
• Low-income riders may qualify for reduced fares through the ORCA LIFT program
• Many employers offer subsidized transit passes or let you pay for fares with pre-tax dollars
• If you ride regularly, monthly passes almost always provide better value than paying per ride

By taking advantage of these programs and discounts, you can keep your transportation costs low while still enjoying all that Redmond has to offer.

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to get around Redmond?
For most people, a bus pass is the most affordable way to get around. At just $99 per month for unlimited rides, it’s a fraction of the cost of car ownership.

Are there monthly transit passes in Redmond?
Yes, you can get a monthly pass for $99 that offers unlimited rides on King County Metro buses. Passes for light rail and other services are also available.

Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
Yes, transit is a reliable option for commuting in Redmond. Buses and light rail run frequently during peak hours, and average commute times are often faster than driving in traffic.

What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Redmond?
Through the ORCA LIFT program, low-income riders can get reduced fares on buses, light rail, and other transit services. Eligible riders pay just $1.50 per ride, or $54 for a monthly pass.

Getting Around Smarter in Redmond

As you can see, public transportation in Redmond is an affordable and convenient way to get around. With fares starting at just $2.75 per ride and monthly passes under $100, transit can help you save big over the costs of car ownership.

Of course, the best way to get around will depend on your unique needs and budget. To see how transit costs fit into your larger financial picture, check out our guide on How Much It Costs to Live in Redmond Each Month. And if you’re considering other options like biking or ridesharing, we’ve got you covered there too.

No matter how you choose to navigate Redmond, we’re here to help you do it smarter. With a little planning and know-how, you can enjoy all this vibrant city has to offer – without breaking the bank.