What You’ll Spend on Transit in Redlands
When it comes to public transportation costs in Redlands, a one-way fare on the local bus system typically runs around $1.75. For frequent riders, investing in a monthly pass can provide significant savings. A 30-day bus pass in Redlands typically costs $55. In cities like Redlands, a monthly transit pass usually ranges between $60–$100 depending on the level of coverage and services included.
Of course, your total monthly transit costs will depend on how often you ride and which modes you use most frequently. We’ll break down some common scenarios later to give you a clearer picture of what you might spend getting around Redlands without a car.
Transit Options Available
Redlands offers a few different public transportation options for residents and visitors:
- Omnitrans bus service covering major routes throughout the city
- Metrolink commuter rail with service to San Bernardino and connections to Los Angeles
- OmniGo on-demand shuttle service for shorter trips
The Omnitrans bus network forms the core of Redlands’ public transit system. You can reach most destinations in the city via the major routes like the 8, 15, and 19. Metrolink is a great option for commuters heading west to San Bernardino or even Los Angeles, although it operates on a more limited schedule than the buses.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
To give you a more concrete sense of transit costs, let’s look at some typical Redlands commuting patterns and what you might spend per month in each scenario.
| Commuting Scenario | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-day per week bus commuter | $55 (30-day pass) |
| Weekend-only bus rider | $14 (8 one-way trips at $1.75 each) |
| Daily Metrolink commuter to San Bernardino | $176 (Metrolink monthly pass) |
As you can see, regular bus riders will get the best value from a monthly pass, while more occasional users may do fine just paying per ride. 🏆 Winner: In Redlands, the 30-day Omnitrans bus pass offers the most affordable option for daily riders at just $55 per month.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Redlands?
Choosing transit over driving often comes down to weighing cost vs. convenience. In Redlands, a monthly transit pass is likely cheaper than gas, parking, and wear and tear on a car for most commuters. The average bus commute time in Redlands is around 30 minutes. Depending on your route and time of day, taking public transportation may be faster than battling traffic.
However, buses and trains run less frequently off-peak and on weekends. Those with very early or late work hours may find transit schedules limiting. And while downtown Redlands is fairly walkable, those living farther from major bus lines may still need a car for errands and appointments. As with any city, consider testing a transit commute before ditching your vehicle entirely.
Ways to Save on Transit
Beyond monthly passes, there are a few other ways Redlands residents can save on public transportation:
- Youths, seniors, the disabled, and Medicare recipients are eligible for reduced fares
- College students can get discounted Go Smart passes through participating schools
- Some employers offer subsidized passes or pre-tax commuter benefits
Tip: If you take Metrolink to work, see if your company participates in the Corporate Quick Card program for 10-20% off fares. Every bit helps!
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Redlands?
For most people, riding the bus with a 30-day pass will be the lowest-cost way to get around Redlands. Regular Metrolink commuters may find a monthly pass worthwhile as well.
Are there monthly transit passes in Redlands?
Yes, Omnitrans offers a 30-day GoPass for $55 that provides unlimited rides on any bus route. Metrolink has monthly passes starting at $176 for service to San Bernardino.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
Many residents use Omnitrans buses or Metrolink trains to get to work. Buses run every 15-60 minutes on most major routes during peak hours. However, service is more limited off-peak and on weekends.
What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Redlands?
Through California’s LIFE program, qualifying low-income riders can get 50% off Omnitrans bus passes. Metrolink also offers 25% discounts to adults making under $41,400 a year.
Getting Around Smarter in Redlands
As you can see, public transportation in Redlands is relatively affordable, with monthly bus passes costing about half the price of a tank of gas. For those who live and work near major bus or rail lines, going car-free can mean big savings. Of course, not everyone has that luxury — which is why many residents find that strategically combining transit and driving often strikes the best balance.
Considering a move to be closer to work or a transit stop? Don’t forget to factor in your full monthly cost of living in Redlands before making the leap. You may find that downsizing to a one-car household frees up room in your budget for a place with a more convenient location. In the end, it’s all about figuring out the right transportation mix for your unique needs and lifestyle.