What You’ll Spend on Transit in Plymouth
Wondering about public transportation costs in Plymouth? A standard one-way bus fare typically runs around $2.50, while a 30-day pass averages $65. In midsize cities like Plymouth, a monthly transit pass usually costs between $60–$100 depending on coverage and discounts.
Of course, your total spend depends on how often you ride. A weekend-only user might pay just $20 per month, while a daily commuter could spend over $100. We’ll break down the options and costs to help you budget smarter.
Transit Options Available
Plymouth has a few different public transit modes to choose from:
- City bus routes operated by Metro Transit
- Express commuter buses to downtown Minneapolis
- Park & Ride lots for easy connections
- Metro Mobility paratransit service
Buses are the most common way to get around, with routes connecting major destinations like shopping centers, schools, and transit hubs. The Metro Green Line light rail is also accessible from Plymouth, though you may need to connect via bus first.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
To give you a sense of what you might spend each month, here are some common commuting scenarios in Plymouth:
| Commute Type | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Weekend-only rider (4 round trips) | $20 |
| Part-time commuter (12 round trips) | $60 |
| Daily rider (22 round trips) | $110 |
🏆 Winner: For most Plymouth commuters, a 30-day Metro Transit pass offers the best value at $65 for unlimited rides on buses and light rail. If you ride at least 3-4 times per week, a pass makes sense over single fares.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Plymouth?
It’s a common question: Is transit really cheaper than driving? In Plymouth, taking the bus is often more affordable than gas and parking — with some caveats.
Let’s say you commute from Plymouth to downtown Minneapolis. Driving might cost $150/month in gas alone, plus $100+ for parking. That’s already $250. Compare that to a $65 transit pass, and the savings are clear. The average bus commute from Plymouth is 45 minutes, so you’ll spend more time but keep more cash.
However, transit isn’t as frequent in the suburbs. You’ll need to plan around the schedule and live near a route for an easy commute. Luckily, Plymouth has good bus coverage in most neighborhoods. Just check the timetables before you buy that pass.
Ways to Save on Transit
There are a few ways to trim your transit costs in Plymouth:
- Seniors 65+, youth 6-12, and Medicare cardholders pay just $1 per ride
- Low-income riders may qualify for a $1 fare through the TAP program
- Go-To Cards offer fare discounts and balance protection
- Employers can offer tax-free commuter benefits to offset costs
Prepaid passes are also a smart move for regular riders. Stocking up on 7-day or 30-day passes ensures you always have fare on hand. Just remember to keep your pass safe, since they’re non-refundable if lost or stolen.
FAQs
What is the cheapest way to get around Plymouth?
Taking the bus or light rail with a 30-day pass is often the cheapest way to navigate Plymouth, especially for commuters. Passes start at $65/month for unlimited rides.
Are there monthly transit passes in Plymouth?
Yes, Metro Transit offers 30-day passes for $65-120 depending on fare type. Passes allow unlimited rides on buses and light rail in Plymouth and the greater Twin Cities area.
Is public transit reliable for work commutes?
While buses and trains in Plymouth run frequently during peak commute times, service may be limited on evenings and weekends. Check schedules in advance and plan extra time for transfers or delays.
What discounts are available for low-income transit riders in Plymouth?
Through the TAP program, low-income riders can qualify for $1 fares on Metro Transit. Seniors, youth, and Medicare cardholders also receive discounted $1 fares in Plymouth.
Getting Around Smarter in Plymouth
For most people in Plymouth, public transportation is an affordable alternative to driving, with bus passes starting at just $65 per month. Of course, the tradeoff is spending more time on your commute. You’ll need to weigh the cost savings against the extra minutes.
Luckily, Plymouth has solid transit coverage in most areas. By planning your trips and taking advantage of pass discounts, you can keep your monthly expenses down and still get where you need to go. It just takes a little extra strategizing to make transit work for your budget and lifestyle.