What You’ll Spend on Transit in Federal Way
Do you really need a car to get around Federal Way? For many residents, public transportation offers an affordable alternative. The average one-way bus fare in Federal Way is $2.75, with reduced fares available for youth, seniors, and low-income riders. A 30-day bus pass in Federal Way typically costs $99.00, providing unlimited rides on all Valley Metro routes.
In cities like Federal Way, a monthly transit pass typically runs between $60–$100 depending on coverage. This makes public transportation costs in Federal Way fairly average for a midsize American city. With a bit of planning, you can likely meet most of your daily travel needs without the added expense of car ownership.
Transit Options Available
Federal Way is served by several public transportation providers, offering a range of ways to get around:
- Valley Metro operates an extensive network of bus routes throughout Federal Way and the surrounding region
- Sound Transit’s Link light rail connects Federal Way to Seattle, Tacoma, and Sea-Tac Airport
- King County Metro provides additional bus service, including express routes to major employment centers
With a combination of local and regional providers, it’s possible to reach most destinations in Federal Way and beyond using public transit. Bus routes run frequently along major corridors, while light rail offers a speedy alternative for longer trips.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
The cost of public transportation in Federal Way depends on how often you ride. Here’s a breakdown of what you might spend each month based on common commuting scenarios:
| Commuting Scenario | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-day weekly rider (20 round trips) | $110 (using one-way fares) |
| Weekend-only user (8 round trips) | $44 (using one-way fares) |
| Heavy daily commuter (40+ trips) | $99 (using a monthly pass) |
🏆 Winner: In Federal Way, a monthly bus pass offers the best value for regular commuters, with unlimited rides for under $100 per month.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Federal Way?
For many Federal Way residents, using public transportation can lead to significant savings over driving. The average monthly cost of car ownership in Federal Way is $500+, including parking, gas, insurance, and maintenance. In comparison, a monthly transit pass is only $99.
Of course, there are tradeoffs to consider. In Federal Way, public transit is often faster than driving during peak commute times, but service frequency may vary by route. The average bus commute time in Federal Way is 35 minutes. Walkability also differs between neighborhoods, so be sure to factor in “last mile” connections.
Ways to Save on Transit
There are several ways to reduce your public transportation costs in Federal Way:
- Youth, seniors, and low-income riders are eligible for reduced fares on all Valley Metro services
- Some employers offer subsidized transit passes or allow you to pay for fares with pre-tax dollars
- If you ride regularly, monthly passes almost always provide better value than one-way fares
By taking advantage of available discounts and choosing the fare option that best fits your needs, you can keep your transit costs low while still enjoying the convenience of public transportation in Federal Way.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Federal Way?
For most trips within Federal Way, riding the bus is the cheapest option. One-way fares start at $2.75, with even lower costs available through reduced fare programs.
Are there monthly transit passes in Federal Way?
Yes, Valley Metro offers a 30-day pass for $99, valid on all bus routes in Federal Way and the surrounding region. Reduced price passes are also available for eligible riders.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
In most cases, yes. Federal Way has a robust network of bus routes and light rail lines serving major employment centers. However, be sure to check schedules and plan for any transfers or “last mile” connections.
What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Federal Way?
Valley Metro offers a reduced fare program for low-income riders, with 50% off standard fares. To qualify, you must meet certain income requirements and apply for a reduced fare card.
Getting Around Smarter in Federal Way
For many Federal Way residents, public transportation offers an affordable, reliable alternative to driving. With fares starting at just $2.75 per ride and monthly passes available for under $100, transit can help you save money on your daily commute or weekend adventures.
Of course, the decision between transit and car ownership depends on your unique lifestyle and budget. To explore all of your options, check out our guide on how much it costs to live in Federal Way each month, including a detailed breakdown of transportation expenses.
Whether you choose to ride transit, drive, bike, or walk, Federal Way offers a variety of ways to get around. By weighing the costs and benefits of each mode, you can find a transportation mix that keeps you moving without breaking the bank.