What You’ll Spend on Transit in Berwyn
Do you really need a car to get around Berwyn? For many residents, public transportation costs in Berwyn are far more affordable than car ownership. The average one-way bus fare is just $2.25, while a 30-day pass runs about $100. A 30-day bus pass in Berwyn typically costs $105. In cities like Berwyn, a monthly transit pass typically runs between $60–$100 depending on coverage.
Of course, your total spend depends on how often you ride. A weekend-only CTA user might pay just $20 per month, while a daily commuter could spend closer to $200. But compared to the costs of gas, parking, and vehicle maintenance, transit is often the more budget-friendly choice in Berwyn.
Transit Options Available
Berwyn is served by several public transportation providers, offering a range of ways to get around:
- Pace suburban bus routes, connecting to nearby suburbs and Chicago
- Metra commuter rail service to downtown Chicago via the BNSF line
- CTA bus routes, with transfers to the Blue and Pink ‘L’ lines
The Pace bus is the most common way to get around Berwyn itself, with several key routes running along major roads like Cermak, Roosevelt, and 16th Street. Metra trains are popular for commuting into the city, while the CTA provides connections to Chicago’s broader transit network.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
To give you a sense of what you might spend per month, here’s a quick breakdown for common Berwyn commuting scenarios:
| Commuting Scenario | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-day weekly Pace bus rider | $105 |
| Weekend-only CTA user | $20 |
| Heavy daily Metra commuter | $195 |
🏆 Winner: In Berwyn, the Pace monthly pass offers the best value for most regular commuters.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Berwyn?
For many Berwyn residents, public transportation is absolutely worth it. When you factor in the costs of parking (often $20+ per day in the city), gas ($3–$4 per gallon), and car ownership (easily $500+ per month), a $100 transit pass looks like a bargain.
Transit is also often faster than driving from Berwyn, especially at rush hour. The average commute time by Metra from Berwyn to downtown Chicago is about 25 minutes, compared to 45+ minutes by car in traffic. Of course, bus and train frequency varies by time of day. But in walkable neighborhoods near the Metra stations, many errands can be done on foot.
Ways to Save on Transit
There are a few ways to trim your transit costs in Berwyn:
- Seniors, students, and riders with disabilities can get reduced fares
- Some employers offer pre-tax transit benefits or subsidized passes
- Buying a monthly pass is cheaper than paying per ride
If you qualify for any discounts, be sure to get your reduced fare card or sign up for commuter benefits at work. And if you ride regularly, a 30-day pass is almost always the best deal.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Berwyn?
Walking and biking are free! But if you need to go further, the Pace bus is the most affordable transit option, at just $2.25 per ride or $105 for a monthly pass.
Are there monthly transit passes in Berwyn?
Yes, you can get a 30-day unlimited ride pass for Pace buses and Metra trains. The Ventra app makes it easy to buy and store digital passes on your phone.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
It depends on your route, but many Berwyn commuters rely on Metra and CTA trains to get to work downtown. Buses can be affected by traffic, so always check the schedule and leave a few minutes early.
What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Berwyn?
The Ventra fare system has a reduced fare program for seniors, people with disabilities, students, and active military personnel. Some nonprofits also offer transit assistance for job seekers and low-income riders.
Getting Around Smarter in Berwyn
For most Berwyn residents, public transportation is an affordable, convenient way to get around. With a variety of passes and discount programs available, it’s easy to find a budget-friendly option for your commute. Just remember to check schedules, buy a pass, and take advantage of any reduced fares you qualify for.
Of course, transit is just one part of the cost of living in Berwyn. To see how transportation fits into your larger budget, check out our guide on whether you can afford to live in Berwyn.