What You’ll Spend on Transit in Garland
Do you really need a car to get around Garland, or can public transportation meet your needs at a lower cost? In 2025, public transportation costs in Garland remain affordable for most residents. A standard one-way bus fare is $2.00, while a 30-day bus pass typically costs $60. Seniors, students, and those with qualifying low incomes can often ride for half price.
While a monthly transit pass may seem steep compared to a single ride, it can provide significant savings for frequent riders. Assuming 40 trips per month (twice daily on weekdays), a pass brings the per-ride cost down to just $1.50. That’s a 25% discount off the base fare, making it an economical choice for commuters and those without cars.
Of course, your mileage may vary. Some residents only need public transit occasionally, while others rely on it daily. Students going to class or social events might use their pass 60+ times a month, scoring an even lower per-ride price. Let’s break down the options in more detail.
Transit Options Available
Garland’s public transportation is provided primarily by Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART). Buses are the main mode, but the network also includes light rail service to downtown Dallas via the Blue Line. Key routes and fare options include:
- Local buses serving major corridors like Walnut St, Broadway Blvd, and First St
- Express buses to downtown Dallas and DFW airport
- GoLink on-demand shuttles for short neighborhood trips
- Reduced fares for seniors (65+), students, and those with disabilities
- Day passes for unlimited rides in a 24-hour period ($6 for local, $12 for premium)
DART’s fare system aims to be simple and equitable. Most local rides are a flat $2.00, whether you go two stops or all the way across town. Longer commuter routes, like those to the airport, do cost more. But for trips within Garland, you can ride easy knowing it’s a fixed price.
The GoLink service adds flexibility for those not near a bus stop. Think of it like a subsidized rideshare that fills in transit gaps. You can book a ride to any DART stop or landmark within several zones around Garland. Fares are the same as local buses but must be purchased in advance via the GoPass app.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
To put Garland’s transit costs in perspective, here are some common commuting scenarios and their estimated monthly price tags:
| Scenario | Commute Costs |
|---|---|
| Weekday rider (40 trips) | $60 monthly pass |
| Weekend only (8 trips) | $16 ($2/ride) |
| Student (60 trips) | $34 reduced fare pass |
| 5 mile daily drive | $60+ in gas alone |
🏆 Winner: For most Garland residents, a standard $60 monthly bus pass is the best deal. It offers unlimited rides on local routes, including trains and GoLink. Even car owners may find it worthwhile to skip traffic and parking hassles.
Seniors, students, and those with qualifying disabilities can save 50% or more on DART passes. A 30-day reduced fare pass is just $34. At that price, public transit becomes the clear economical choice. As long as you ride at least 4-5 times a week, you’ll come out ahead.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Garland?
For many Garland residents, public transportation is an affordable, eco-friendly alternative to driving. Assuming a 5-mile commute each way, you’d spend $60+ per month just on gas, based on 2025 prices. That’s before factoring in parking, insurance, maintenance, and the vehicle itself. The average monthly cost of car ownership in Garland is $500+.
Then there’s the time factor. No one enjoys being stuck in traffic. The average bus commute in Garland takes 35 minutes. While that’s 15 minutes slower than driving on average, it’s time you can spend reading, catching up on emails, or simply relaxing. Plus, DART buses and trains run every 15-20 minutes on most routes, so you’re never waiting long.
Environmentally, public transportation is a clear winner. A solo driver in a gas car produces 25x the carbon emissions per mile as a bus rider. In a sprawling metro like DFW, small choices can have a big impact. Of course, not everyone can go car-free. But using transit when possible supports cleaner air and more livable cities.
Ways to Save on Transit
For those on a tight budget, there are several ways to reduce public transportation costs in Garland:
- Seniors (65+), students, and those with disabilities are eligible for 50% off all DART fares
- Some employers offer transit benefits or pre-tax commuter accounts to help cover fares
- Purchasing a monthly or annual pass can lower your per-ride cost by 25% or more
- Qualifying low-income riders may receive further discounts through DART’s Rider Assistance Program
It’s also worth comparing DART’s prices to rideshare services like Uber and Lyft. For shorter trips within Garland, UberX typically costs $10+, or 5x a bus fare. Even with surge pricing, public transit is almost always cheaper than hailing a private ride.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Garland?
For most people, a DART monthly pass offers the best value. At $60 for unlimited local rides, it brings the average per-trip cost down to $1.50 or less. Seniors, students, and riders with disabilities can save even more with a $34 reduced fare pass.
Are there monthly transit passes in Garland?
Yes, DART offers a 31-day local pass for $60 ($34 reduced fare). It provides unlimited rides on buses, trains, and GoLink within Garland and greater Dallas. A regional pass with access to Fort Worth is $192.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
With buses and trains running every 15-20 minutes, DART service is frequent enough for most commuters. The average transit trip in Garland takes 35 minutes, just 15 minutes longer than driving. Many riders find the tradeoff worthwhile to avoid traffic and parking costs.
Getting Around Smarter in Garland
As Garland grows, so do the benefits of public transportation. DART’s expansive network puts most of the city within reach for $2 a ride or less. With a [monthly budget](/garland-tx/monthly-budget/) of just $60, you can zip around town while saving wear and tear on your car.
Of course, transit isn’t the answer for every trip. Groceries, weekend errands, and late-night outings may require more flexibility. But for predictable commutes and jaunts around town, Garland’s buses and trains are a reliable, affordable option. You might be surprised how far $60 can take you.