What You’ll Spend on Transit in Troy
As Sarah Kowalski boards the SMART bus for her morning commute, she scans her monthly pass and settles in for the 25-minute ride. Public transportation costs in Troy are a key part of many residents’ budgets, with a 30-day bus pass typically running $66. With a COLI of 105.6, overall living costs in Troy trend slightly above the U.S. average, which often extends to transit and commuting.
For occasional riders, a one-way fare on most SMART routes is $2.00. However, frequent commuters like Sarah can save by opting for a monthly pass, which offers unlimited rides for a flat fee. “I take the bus almost every day,” Sarah explains. “The monthly pass ends up being a much better deal than paying per ride.”
Transit Options Available
While Troy doesn’t have its own intracity bus system, residents can access several regional providers:
- SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation) operates bus routes connecting Troy with Detroit and neighboring suburbs.
- FAST (Flexible and Sustainable Transportation) offers curb-to-curb service for seniors and riders with disabilities.
- Amtrak provides rail service from Troy to Chicago and Pontiac via the Wolverine line.
For those commuting to Detroit, the SMART Park & Ride lots allow riders to leave their cars and transfer to express buses heading downtown. However, Troy does not have direct light rail service; most riders connect via these regional express buses or park & ride lots.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
To help you plan your transit budget, here’s a breakdown of what different types of riders might spend per month:
| Rider Profile | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5-day weekly commuter | $66 (SMART 30-day pass) |
| Weekend-only rider | $16 (8 one-way rides at $2 each) |
| Heavy daily rider | $66 (SMART 30-day pass) |
| Car commuter (for comparison) | $155 (gas only, based on $3.50/gal and 25-min commute) |
Methodology note: Estimates reflect 2025 fares for standard adult riders. Actual costs may vary depending on discounts, pass types, and commuting frequency.
Is Public Transit Worth It in Troy?
For many Troy residents, using public transit can be more affordable than driving, especially with current gas prices around $3.50 per gallon. The average bus commute in Troy takes about 25 minutes, only slightly longer than driving in normal traffic.
However, transit service is limited on evenings and weekends. “I love taking the bus to work,” says Sarah, “but if I need to run errands or meet up with friends on weekends, I usually end up driving since the routes are reduced.” In Troy, public transit is often faster than driving during weekday rush hours, but service frequency may vary by route or neighborhood.
Ways to Save on Transit
Looking to trim your transportation costs? Consider these money-saving tips:
- Buy a monthly SMART pass ($66) instead of paying per ride if you commute regularly
- Check if your employer offers pre-tax transit benefits or subsidized passes
- Seniors (65+), riders with disabilities, Medicare cardholders, and students are eligible for reduced fares
- Plan your trips during off-peak hours to take advantage of lower rates when possible
🏆 Pro Tip: In Troy, using a monthly pass instead of daily fares can save frequent commuters up to 30% per month.
FAQs About Transit in Troy
What is the cheapest way to get around Troy?
For most riders, taking SMART buses with a monthly pass ($66) is the most affordable transit option in Troy. Seniors, students, and riders with disabilities can save even more with discounted fares.
How much does the average commuter spend monthly on public transit in Troy in 2025?
A typical commuter using a SMART 30-day pass spends about $66 per month. Those who drive spend around $155/month just on gas, based on a 25-minute commute and $3.50/gallon prices.
Does Troy offer park-and-ride or express bus options for commuters?
Yes, SMART operates several park & ride lots in Troy where commuters can park for free and catch express buses to Detroit. However, there is no direct light rail or subway service.
How does the cost of public transportation in Troy compare to driving?
For daily commuters, riding SMART buses with a monthly pass ($66) is significantly cheaper than driving, which costs around $155/month in gas alone (based on a 25-min commute and $3.50/gal prices). However, transit service is more limited on weekends.
Is public transit in Troy accessible for people with disabilities?
SMART buses are wheelchair accessible, and the FAST service provides additional curb-to-curb transportation for riders with disabilities. Discounted fares are available for eligible riders.
Getting Around Smarter in Troy
As Sarah’s experience shows, public transportation in Troy can be an affordable alternative to driving, especially for weekday commuters. With gas prices hovering around $3.50 per gallon, even a modest transit system like SMART can help residents save.
When budgeting for transit, plan on spending around $66 per month if you commute daily and take advantage of a monthly pass. Weekend-only riders can get by spending $20 or less. Of course, seniors, students, and riders with disabilities enjoy even lower fares.
Ultimately, the choice between transit and driving depends on your commute, schedule, and neighborhood. To dive deeper into the financial tradeoffs, check out our guide to average monthly expenses in Troy, which covers budgeting for housing, transportation, and more.