What You’ll Spend on Transit in Joliet
For most residents, public transportation costs in Joliet are quite affordable compared to car ownership. A standard one-way bus fare is $2.00, while a 30-day pass ranges from $60-80 depending on the route and distance. A typical 30-day bus pass in Joliet costs $72. Commuter rail passes can be pricier, averaging $150-200 per month for unlimited rides.
Of course, your total monthly transit costs will depend on how often you ride and which modes you use. Mixing bus rides with occasional Uber or Lyft trips tends to be cheaper than relying solely on rideshare services. And if you live and work near bus or rail lines, you may be able to go car-free and save hundreds each month.
Transit Options Available
Joliet is served by several public transportation providers, offering a mix of bus and rail options:
- Pace Suburban Bus – Local and express routes throughout Joliet and Will County
- Metra Rail – Commuter trains connecting Joliet to downtown Chicago
- Amtrak – Regional rail service to Chicago, St. Louis, and other Midwest cities
Pace operates over a dozen bus routes in Joliet, with service to major destinations like the Louis Joliet Mall, Joliet Junior College, and the downtown transit center. Buses run daily, with limited service on weekends and holidays.
For commuters, Metra’s Rock Island and Heritage Corridor lines offer frequent rush hour service between Joliet and Chicago’s LaSalle Street Station. One-way Metra fares start at $7.25, with monthly passes ranging from $159-239 as of 2025.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
To give you a sense of what you might spend on transit each month, here are some common Joliet commuting scenarios:
| Commute Type | Modes | Est. Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Commuter | Pace Bus + Metra | $250-300 |
| Weekend Traveler | Pace Bus only | $40-60 |
| All-Purpose Rider | Pace Monthly Pass | $72 |
🏆 Winner: For the average Joliet commuter, a Pace monthly bus pass offers the best overall value at $72 for 30 days of unlimited local rides.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Joliet?
Choosing transit over driving comes down to more than just cost. Joliet has ample free parking downtown, with daily garage rates averaging $8-12. Gas prices have stabilized since 2022, but still add up quickly for frequent commuters. The average bus commute in Joliet takes about 35 minutes, versus 20-25 minutes driving in normal traffic.
However, for residents who live and work near bus lines, Joliet’s public transportation can be a smart financial choice. You’ll avoid car payments, maintenance costs, and parking fees – easily saving $500+ per month. And with a transit pass, there’s no need to worry about gas prices or traffic delays.
Families looking to go down to one car (or even go car-free) can use tools like this Monthly Budget Examples for Joliet Residents to see how much they could save by switching to transit.
Ways to Save on Transit
If you’re looking to trim your transportation costs, Joliet offers several programs that can help:
- Student passes – Discounted Pace fares for students at JJC, USF, and other local colleges
- Senior fares – Reduced rates for riders 65+ on Pace buses and Metra trains
- Employer benefits – Some Joliet employers offer pre-tax transit cards or fare subsidies
You can also save by purchasing Pace passes in advance rather than paying cash on board. Day passes ($5) and 7-day passes ($20) offer flexibility for riders who need to combine bus and rail service.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Joliet?
For short trips within Joliet, Pace buses are the most affordable option at $2 per ride. Frequent riders can save even more with a $72 monthly pass.
Are there monthly transit passes in Joliet?
Yes, both Pace and Metra offer 30-day unlimited ride passes. A Pace monthly pass costs $72, while Metra passes range from $159-239 depending on distance.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
Pace buses and Metra trains serving Joliet are generally reliable, but delays can happen. Most riders find transit more predictable than driving in rush hour traffic. Employers are often understanding if transit issues cause occasional tardiness.
Getting Around Smarter in Joliet
As Joliet grows, public transportation offers an affordable, eco-friendly alternative to gridlock and parking woes. A monthly bus pass costs less than a single car payment, while still providing access to jobs, schools, and amenities throughout Will County.
Of course, going car-free isn’t practical for everyone. Families with complex commutes or childcare needs may find a hybrid approach works best – using transit a few times per week and driving when necessary. Tools like Pace’s Trip Planner can help you compare costs and plan your route.
However you choose to get around, remember that every transit trip helps reduce emissions and road wear in our community. With fares starting at just $2, it’s an investment that pays off for everyone.