What You’ll Spend on Transit in La Mesa
When it comes to public transportation costs in La Mesa, residents can expect to pay an average of $2.50 for a one-way bus fare and $2.75 for a one-way light rail ticket. A 30-day bus pass in La Mesa typically costs $72, while a combined bus and light rail pass runs about $100 per month. In cities like La Mesa, a monthly transit pass typically falls between $60–$100 depending on the level of coverage.
These fares put La Mesa’s transit costs slightly above the national average, but still well within reach for most commuters. By comparison, the average cost of owning and operating a car in La Mesa is over $500 per month when you factor in car payments, insurance, gas, and parking. For many residents, public transportation offers a more affordable way to get around the city.
Transit Options Available
La Mesa is served by two primary public transportation providers:
- Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates an extensive network of bus routes throughout La Mesa and the greater San Diego area
- San Diego Trolley light rail system connects La Mesa with downtown San Diego and other key destinations via the Orange and Green lines
The bus system offers the most comprehensive coverage within La Mesa, with frequent stops and service to most neighborhoods. Key bus routes include:
- Route 1: Connects La Mesa with El Cajon and Santee
- Route 14: Runs along University Ave between La Mesa and the College Area
- Route 851/852: Express service to downtown San Diego during peak commute hours
The San Diego Trolley provides faster travel to destinations outside of La Mesa. The Orange Line has stations at Spring St and Grossmont Transit Center, while the Green Line stops at Amaya Dr and 70th St.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
The total amount you’ll spend on public transportation in La Mesa depends on how often you ride. Here’s a quick comparison of common commuting scenarios:
| Commuting Scenario | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-day weekly rider (2 trips per day) | $100 (monthly pass) |
| Weekend-only rider (4 round trips per month) | $22 (individual fares) |
| Heavy daily commuter (2+ trips per day) | $100 (monthly pass) |
🏆 Winner: In La Mesa, a monthly transit pass offers the best value for commuters who ride at least twice per day, five days a week. Occasional riders can save by paying individual fares.
Is Public Transit Worth It in La Mesa?
For many La Mesa residents, public transportation is a smart financial choice. The average monthly cost of driving in La Mesa is $500+, compared to just $72-$100 for a transit pass. Even factoring in the occasional rideshare or taxi trip, transit riders can save hundreds per month.
Of course, transit isn’t right for everyone. Commute times by bus or trolley are often longer than driving, especially for trips outside of central La Mesa. The average commute time by bus in La Mesa is 30-40 minutes, compared to 20-25 minutes by car. And while buses run frequently on major routes, service may be limited in outlying areas.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget, schedule, and lifestyle. If you live and work near transit lines, riding the bus or trolley can be a convenient and affordable option. But if you frequently travel to areas with limited service, or if you value the flexibility of driving, the extra cost of car ownership may be worthwhile. Use this sample monthly budget for La Mesa to weigh your transportation costs against other expenses.
Ways to Save on Transit
Even if transit is already cheaper than driving, there are still ways for La Mesa riders to save:
- Youth (ages 6-18), seniors (65+), people with disabilities, and Medicare recipients are eligible for reduced fares
- College students can purchase discounted semester passes through their school
- Some employers offer subsidized transit passes or pre-tax commuter benefits
- Buying a monthly pass is cheaper than paying individual fares if you ride regularly
It’s also a good idea to download the Compass Cloud app, which lets you buy passes and track your spending from your phone. By monitoring your transit usage, you can make sure you’re always getting the best fare for your needs.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around La Mesa?
In most cases, riding the bus is the cheapest way to get around La Mesa. A one-way fare is just $2.50, and a monthly pass starts at $72. Riding a bike or walking may be cheaper for short trips.
Are there monthly transit passes in La Mesa?
Yes, MTS offers 30-day passes for buses ($72) and trolleys ($100). You can purchase them from ticket machines, transit centers, or through the Compass Cloud app.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
It depends on your route and schedule. Buses and trolleys run frequently during peak commute hours, especially in central La Mesa. But if you work early/late shifts or commute to an area with limited service, transit may not be as reliable as driving.
What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in La Mesa?
MTS doesn’t currently offer discounts based on income. However, seniors, youth, people with disabilities, and Medicare recipients can ride for a reduced fare. Some employers and schools also offer transit pass subsidies.
Getting Around Smarter in La Mesa
For many La Mesa residents, public transportation is an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to driving. By riding the bus or trolley, you can save hundreds of dollars per month while reducing your carbon footprint. A monthly transit pass typically costs $72-$100, compared to $500+ for car ownership.
Of course, transit isn’t right for every lifestyle. Buses and trolleys may not be as convenient as driving for out-of-the-way destinations or off-peak travel. But if you live and work near major transit routes, riding public transportation can be a smart way to get around La Mesa.
To see how transit fits into your budget, check out this sample monthly budget for La Mesa in 2025. By comparing your transportation costs to other expenses like housing and food, you can get a clearer picture of where your money is going — and where you might be able to save.