What You’ll Spend on Transit in Centennial
Do you really need a car to get around Centennial, or can public transportation meet your needs at a lower cost? In 2025, public transportation costs in Centennial are very reasonable for most commuters. A standard one-way bus fare is just $2.50, while a 30-day pass with unlimited rides is typically $99 per month.
Light rail fares are slightly higher, averaging $3.00 each way, with monthly passes priced at $119. Overall, relying on transit instead of driving can lead to significant savings, especially when you factor in the costs of gas, parking, insurance, and vehicle maintenance.
Of course, your total monthly transportation costs will depend on how often you ride and which modes you use. But for the average Centennial commuter traveling to and from work 5 days per week, a bus pass usually offers the best value.
Transit Options Available
Centennial is served by a robust public transportation system that includes buses, light rail, and commuter trains. The primary providers are the Regional Transportation District (RTD) and the Denver South Transportation Management Association.
Bus routes criss-cross the city, with major lines running along Arapahoe Road, University Boulevard, and Smoky Hill Road. Key bus routes include:
- Route 66 – Arapahoe Crosstown
- Route 73 – Quebec Street
- Route 153 – Chambers Road
- Route 403 – Wildcat Crosstown
The RTD E and F light rail lines also pass through Centennial, connecting riders to the broader Denver metro area. And for longer regional trips, the R Line commuter trains link Centennial to Aurora and downtown Denver.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Let’s compare a few common commuting scenarios to see how much you might spend on public transit each month in Centennial:
| Rider Profile | Commute Frequency | Mode | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekday office worker | 5 days/week | Bus | $99 |
| Weekend explorer | Saturdays & Sundays only | Light rail | $48 |
| All-day commuter student | 5 days/week | Bus + light rail | $119 |
🏆 Winner: For most Centennial residents, an RTD bus pass delivers the best combination of affordability and coverage. At just $99 per month for unlimited rides, it’s a cost-effective alternative to driving for daily commuters.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Centennial?
Choosing transit over driving can yield real savings for Centennial locals. Beyond the hard costs of gas and parking (which average $175/month), car ownership also means budgeting for insurance, maintenance, and depreciation.
By contrast, a $99 monthly bus pass covers all your rides with no extra fees. And with an average bus commute time of just 30 minutes in Centennial, you won’t sacrifice too much convenience. Buses and light rail run frequently during peak hours, and the city has solid walk scores in most neighborhoods.
Of course, transit has some tradeoffs – you’re beholden to route maps and schedules, and multiple transfers can be frustrating. But from a purely financial perspective, Centennial’s public transportation is often the smarter choice.
Ways to Save on Transit
On top of Centennial’s already low fares, there are a few ways to save even more on your monthly transit costs:
- Students, seniors 65+, and riders with disabilities are eligible for reduced fares (typically 50% off).
- Some employers offer pre-tax commuter benefit cards that let you pay for transit with tax-free dollars.
- Purchasing annual passes can shave 10-15% off versus paying monthly.
- RTD regularly runs promotions like “Discount Day” and “Free Ride Day” – watch their site and social media for deals.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Centennial?
In most cases, RTD buses offer the lowest public transit fares in Centennial. A one-way ride is just $2.50, and an unlimited monthly pass is $99.
Are there monthly transit passes in Centennial?
Yes, both RTD and the Denver South Transportation Management Association sell 30-day unlimited ride passes. Bus passes are $99/month and light rail passes are $119/month.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
Centennial’s bus and light rail services are generally punctual and run frequently during peak commute times. The average bus commute in Centennial is about 30 minutes. However, trains and buses can be delayed by traffic, weather, or mechanical issues.
Getting Around Smarter in Centennial
For most Centennial residents, public transportation is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to driving. With fares as low as $2.50 per ride and monthly passes under $100, you can keep more money in your pocket by riding RTD.
Of course, transit isn’t perfect. It requires some extra planning and patience versus the go-anywhere convenience of driving. But with a solid network of bus and rail routes, Centennial makes it easy to ditch your car and save big on your monthly budget.
Interested in comparing your commute costs to other Denver suburbs? Check out our guides to public transportation in Aurora, Lakewood, and Littleton.