What You’ll Spend on Transit in Auburn
For most residents, public transportation costs in Auburn are quite affordable compared to the expense of car ownership. A standard one-way bus fare within the city typically runs about $2.50, while a 30-day pass with unlimited rides costs around $90. A 30-day bus pass in Auburn typically costs $90. In cities like Auburn, a monthly transit pass typically runs between $60–$100 depending on coverage.
Of course, your individual transit costs will depend on how often you ride and which modes you use most frequently. But for the average commuter taking public transportation to work 5 days a week, you can expect to spend around $100 per month, which is significantly less than the combined cost of gas, parking, and vehicle wear-and-tear if you were to drive yourself.
Transit Options Available
Auburn residents have access to a robust public transportation system operated by King County Metro and Sound Transit. The primary modes available are:
- Bus – Extensive route coverage throughout Auburn and surrounding areas
- Light rail – The Sounder commuter train connects Auburn to Seattle and Tacoma
- Paratransit – Accessible door-to-door shared-ride service for those unable to ride standard buses
King County Metro operates over a dozen bus routes within Auburn, including high-frequency lines like the 180, which runs every 15 minutes on weekdays. The Sounder train offers a traffic-free commute into downtown Seattle with several morning and evening departures.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
To give you a better sense of what you might spend based on your transit usage, here’s a breakdown of estimated monthly costs for common commuting scenarios:
| Commuting Scenario | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-day per week bus commuter | $90 (monthly pass) |
| Weekend-only bus rider | $20 (8 one-way rides) |
| Daily bus + light rail commuter | $117 (monthly pass + $3.25 train fare per day) |
🏆 Winner: For most Auburn commuters, a monthly Metro bus pass offers the best value. At just $90 for unlimited trips, the monthly pass beats out the cost of individual rides, even if you only take the bus to and from work each day.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Auburn?
To determine if riding public transit makes financial sense for you, it’s important to consider the full cost of your commute. Let’s say you live in Auburn and work in downtown Seattle. Driving yourself would cost:
- $175/month for parking
- $80/month in gas (at $4/gallon)
- $60/month in average maintenance costs
That’s $315 per month just to drive to work, not including the cost of your vehicle itself. In comparison, a monthly Metro pass ($90) + Sounder train fare ($3.25 each way) would cost you just $220 per month. The average commute time by bus from Auburn to Seattle is about 60 minutes, while driving in rush hour traffic often takes 90 minutes or more.
In Auburn, public transit is often faster and more cost-effective than driving for daily commuters. However, those who work locally or have non-traditional schedules may find that the lower frequency of buses and trains outside of peak hours requires more planning and patience.
Ways to Save on Transit
There are a few ways to reduce your public transportation costs in Auburn:
- Youth, seniors, and riders with disabilities are eligible for reduced fares (around 50% off standard prices)
- Some employers offer subsidized transit passes or allow you to purchase them with pre-tax dollars
- If you ride regularly, buying a monthly pass instead of individual fares will save you money
It’s also a good idea to check if your school or workplace offers any additional discounts or incentives for riding transit. Every little bit helps!
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Auburn?
In most cases, riding the bus is the least expensive way to get around Auburn. A one-way fare is just $2.50, and a monthly pass allows unlimited rides for $90.
Are there monthly transit passes in Auburn?
Yes, King County Metro offers a regional monthly pass called the ORCA card that covers buses, light rail, and trains. It costs $90 for unlimited rides within the Auburn area.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
Auburn’s transit system is generally reliable, especially during peak commuting hours. Buses and trains run frequently and on-time. However, service may be more limited on weekends and evenings.
What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Auburn?
King County Metro offers a reduced fare ORCA LIFT pass for riders with household incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level. This cuts the cost of rides by around 50%.
Getting Around Smarter in Auburn
As you can see, public transportation in Auburn is an affordable and efficient option for most residents. While a monthly transit pass runs about $90, the average monthly expenses in Auburn for car ownership, gas, and parking can easily top $500.
Of course, the decision between riding transit and driving yourself depends on a variety of factors like where you live and work, your schedule, and your personal preferences. But if you’re looking to save money and reduce stress on your daily commute, Auburn’s extensive bus and rail network is definitely worth considering.