LIRR riders could face back-to-back fare hikes as MTA approves long-term plan
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority board, on Wednesday, signed off on a four-year financial plan that includes a new round of fare hikes, frustrating riders who say they are being asked to pay more.
Long Island Rail Road commuters are bracing for higher travel costs, with one fare increase set to take effect in just weeks and another possibly coming in 2027.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority board, on Wednesday, signed off on a four-year financial plan that includes a new round of fare hikes, frustrating riders who say they are being asked to pay more.
Beginning Jan. 4, 2026, LIRR fares will rise across the board. Monthly tickets will increase by 4.5%, while all other ticket types will jump by about 8%. The MTA board also approved a plan for an additional 4% fare hike in March 2027.
Many commuters say the increases feel like back-to-back hits to their wallets.
Michelle Cercena, of East Norwich, said the repeated hikes could force riders to reconsider their commuting options.
“I just don’t see why it has to go up one after the other,” she said. “It makes you think maybe we won’t take the train — maybe think of another way, carpooling or something else.”
MTA chairman and CEO Janno Lieber pushed back on the criticism, arguing that fares are not rising in consecutive years, according to their record-keeping. According to the agency, the January 2026 increase was originally planned for 2025 and delayed.
“This is the 2025 fare adjustment that we’re implementing right now, and we’re following our every-two-year approach,” Lieber said.
MTA officials say the fare hikes come as the agency works to control costs, pointing to $500 million in operating efficiencies, while expanding and improving service.
Board member Neal Zuckerman praised the approved budget, calling it a responsible plan to fund the transit system.
“This is a very good budget,” Zuckerman said. “It funds this business, and we are funding it smartly.”
But some riders remain unconvinced.
“Maybe they should show some improvements if they’re going to be charging people more money,” said Natalie DiPietro of Centerport.
In addition to higher fares, several ticketing policy changes will take effect Jan. 4. The 10-trip ticket will be eliminated and replaced with a new incentive. Riders will receive their 11th trip free within any 14-day period.
The MTA also plans to impose a surcharge on riders who repeatedly activate mobile tickets after boarding a train.
