Beginning July 1, transit users in Metro Vancouver will have to pay a little extra. TransLink’s board of directors voted Wednesday to approve the proposed average fare increase of five per cent, following a four-per-cent increase the year prior. “Over the past decade, the transit fare increases have been below or close to the long-term average inflation rate,” a report detailing the proposal to the board says. “TransLink must strike a balance between maintaining affordable fares and ensuring that transit users contribute their fair share towards funding the system,” the report adds. Adult cash fares and contactless payment fares will increase anywhere from 10 to 25 cents, with a one-zone ticket now costing $3.50, a two-zone fare rising to $5.10, and a 10-cent increase for a three-zone ticket, up to $6.70. Adult stored value fares will see a slightly larger increase of between 15 and 20 cents, ranging from $2.85 for a one-zone ride to $5.40 for a three-zone fare. Monthly transit passes also moved up by five per cent across the board, costing anywhere between $117.20 and $211.65. Riders of the West Coast Express will also see similar increases of around five per cent effective July 1, starting at $6.95 for a one-zone and $14.95 for a five-zone trip between Waterfront and Mission City stations. The increase is part of TransLink’s 2025-2034 10-Year Investment Plan, which was approved last year by TransLink’s board and the Mayors’ Council and is aimed at expanding and improving transit service in Metro Vancouver. The annual fare increases are expected to decrease to just two per cent, beginning next year.
