What You’ll Spend on Transit in Bloomington
Do you really need a car to get around Bloomington? Many residents find that public transportation costs in Bloomington are affordable enough to skip the hassle and expense of car ownership. A standard one-way bus fare is just $2.00, while a 30-day bus pass in Bloomington typically costs $65. In midsize cities like Bloomington, a monthly transit pass usually runs between $60–$100 depending on coverage.
Of course, your total spend will depend on how often you ride and which routes you use most. But for most Bloomington residents, public transit offers a cost-effective way to commute to work, run errands, and explore the city without the added costs of gas, parking, and car maintenance.
Transit Options Available
Bloomington is served by several public transportation providers, offering a range of ways to get around:
- Metro Transit operates an extensive network of bus routes throughout the city and surrounding suburbs
- The METRO Blue Line provides light rail service from the Mall of America to downtown Minneapolis
- Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) runs express bus routes connecting Bloomington to nearby cities
With frequent service and good coverage across the city, Bloomington’s public transit system makes it easy to get where you need to go without a car. And with affordable fares and monthly pass options, you can keep your transportation costs predictable and manageable.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what you might spend on public transportation in Bloomington each month, based on a few common commuting scenarios:
| Commuting Scenario | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-day weekly rider (2 rides per day) | $80 (40 rides x $2) |
| Weekend-only user (4 round trips) | $16 (8 rides x $2) |
| Heavy daily commuter (2+ rides per day) | $65 (monthly pass) |
🏆 Winner: In Bloomington, the monthly bus pass offers the best value for regular commuters, with unlimited rides for just $65 per month.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Bloomington?
For many Bloomington residents, using public transportation is more affordable than owning a car when you factor in the costs of gas, parking, insurance, and maintenance. The average commute time by bus in Bloomington is around 30 minutes, which is often faster than battling traffic in your own vehicle.
Of course, your mileage may vary depending on where you live and work. In Bloomington, public transit is most convenient and cost-effective for those living and commuting along major bus and light rail routes. Service frequency may be lower in outlying neighborhoods. But with a bit of planning, public transportation can be a smart financial choice for getting around Bloomington.
Ways to Save on Transit
There are a few ways to trim your public transportation costs in Bloomington even further:
- Seniors, students, and riders with disabilities can get discounted fares with valid ID
- Some employers offer subsidized bus passes or pre-tax commuter benefits
- Purchasing a monthly pass is cheaper than paying for individual rides if you use transit frequently
By taking advantage of available discounts and choosing the fare option that fits your riding habits, you can keep your transit spending as low as possible while still enjoying the convenience of public transportation in Bloomington.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Bloomington?
For most trips within the city, riding the bus is the most affordable public transit option, with one-way fares starting at just $2.00. Frequent riders can save even more with a monthly pass.
Are there monthly transit passes in Bloomington?
Yes, Metro Transit offers a 30-day pass for $65 that provides unlimited rides on buses and METRO lines in Bloomington and the greater Twin Cities area.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
Many Bloomington residents use public transportation to commute, with buses and trains running frequently during peak hours. However, service may be more limited in some neighborhoods, so be sure to check schedules for your specific route.
What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Bloomington?
Metro Transit offers a Transit Assistance Program (TAP) that provides discounted fares for riders with limited incomes. Eligible participants can get monthly passes for just $1.
Getting Around Smarter in Bloomington
For many Bloomington residents, public transportation is an affordable, convenient, and eco-friendly alternative to driving. With fares starting at just $2 per ride and monthly passes available for frequent users, you can keep your transit costs low while still enjoying the freedom to travel throughout the city.
Of course, the true cost of transportation is just one part of the equation when it comes to affording life in Bloomington. Be sure to factor in all your expenses to see how transit fits into your overall budget. And don’t forget to explore your other transportation options, like biking or carpooling, to find the best way to navigate Bloomington without breaking the bank.