Public Transportation Costs in Lynnwood

What You’ll Spend on Transit in Lynnwood

On average, public transportation costs in Lynnwood run about $2.75 per one-way bus fare. For regular commuters, a 30-day bus pass typically costs around $90. In midsize cities like Lynnwood, monthly transit passes usually range from $60 to $100 depending on the level of coverage.

These costs add up, but they’re still far less than owning and maintaining a car. In fact, the average Lynnwood resident who relies on public transit saves over $8,000 per year compared to drivers. That’s a significant chunk of change that can be redirected to other priorities in your monthly budget.

Of course, your exact transit costs will depend on how often you ride and which modes you use. Let’s break down the options available in Lynnwood and what you can expect to pay.

Transit Options Available

Lynnwood is served by two main public transit providers:

• Community Transit, which operates most of the local and commuter bus routes
• Sound Transit, which runs the regional light rail and express bus lines

The bus system is the most extensive, with routes connecting residential areas to major destinations like the Alderwood Mall, Edmonds Community College, and the Lynnwood Transit Center. Local buses run frequently, usually every 15-30 minutes during peak times.

For longer trips, the Swift Blue and Green bus rapid transit lines provide speedy service to Everett and Bothell. Light rail is also expanding, with the Lynnwood Link extension set to open in 2024, connecting riders to Northgate, Seattle, and Sea-Tac airport.

Monthly Cost Breakdown

To give you a clearer picture, here’s what various types of Lynnwood commuters might spend on transit in a typical month:

🏆 Winner: For most Lynnwood residents, the 30-day Community Transit bus pass at $90 offers the best value. It provides unlimited rides on all local routes.

Is Public Transit Worth It in Lynnwood?

Absolutely. When you compare the costs of transit to driving and parking, the savings are substantial. Even with gas prices hovering around $3/gallon, it costs over $50 to fill up a midsize car. Factor in parking fees, which average $20/day in downtown Lynnwood, and driving becomes far pricier than riding the bus or train.

Transit is also often faster, especially during rush hour. The average bus commute in Lynnwood takes about 35 minutes, while driving can easily eat up an hour in heavy traffic. Plus, you can sit back and read or catch up on emails rather than dealing with the stress of navigating congested highways.

Of course, transit does have some tradeoffs in flexibility and frequency. Buses and trains run on fixed schedules that may not align perfectly with your needs. And in some Lynnwood neighborhoods, you may need to walk a bit farther to the nearest stop. But for most residents, the cost and time savings are well worth it.

Ways to Save on Transit

There are a few ways to make riding transit in Lynnwood even more affordable:

• Youth, seniors, and riders with disabilities can get 50% off regular fares
• Low-income riders may qualify for the ORCA LIFT reduced fare program
• Many employers offer tax-free commuter benefits that let you pay for transit with pre-tax dollars
• If you ride regularly, 30-day passes provide the best value, up to 40% off versus paying per ride

It’s also a good idea to get an ORCA card, which you can load with cash value or passes. This lets you easily transfer between Community Transit, Sound Transit, and other regional services without needing to fumble for exact change.

FAQs

What is the cheapest way to get around Lynnwood?

For most trips, the bus is the most affordable option. Fares start at $2.50 for Community Transit routes, with discounts available for youth, seniors, and low-income riders.

Are there monthly transit passes in Lynnwood?

Yes, Community Transit offers a 30-day pass for $90 that covers unlimited rides on most routes. Regional passes from Sound Transit are also available for $100-$360 depending on distance.

Is public transit reliable for work commutes?

Generally, yes. Community Transit and Sound Transit both have good on-time performance, usually above 90%. However, some routes may run less frequently outside of peak hours.

What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Lynnwood?

Through the ORCA LIFT program, low-income riders can qualify for 50% off regular fares. Eligibility is based on household size and income level.

Getting Around Smarter in Lynnwood

For most Lynnwood residents, public transportation is an affordable, efficient way to get around. With extensive bus and growing light rail service, it’s possible to reach most corners of the city and region without a car.

While transit does require some extra planning compared to driving, the savings are substantial – often hundreds of dollars per month. By understanding the system and taking advantage of passes and discounts, you can keep your transportation costs low while still enjoying all that Lynnwood has to offer.