York Regional Transit Fare Increases Effective July 1, 2026 What You Need to Know

Starting July 1, 2026, York Regional Transit (YRT) will raise its fares. This change affects riders who use Presto cards, cash, credit, or debit payments. Understanding these updates will help you plan your transit budget and take advantage of new programs designed to make travel more affordable.

New Fare Rates for YRT Riders

Currently, if you pay with a Presto card, the fare is $4.12 per ride. Beginning July 1, this will increase to $4.24. For those paying with cash, credit, or debit cards, the fare will rise to $4.65. This means riders using cash or cards will pay more than those using Presto, encouraging the use of the Presto system.

Here’s a quick summary of the new fares:

• Presto card fare: $4.24 (up from $4.12)

• Cash, credit, or debit fare: $4.65

  
  

These changes reflect the rising costs of operating transit services and aim to maintain the quality and reliability of YRT.

How the Fare System Will Change

YRT is replacing its traditional monthly passes with a new system based on the number of rides taken. Instead of buying a monthly pass upfront, riders will pay per trip using their Presto card. After completing 40 rides in a calendar month, any additional trips for the rest of that month will be free.

This means:

• You only pay for your first 40 rides each month.

• After 40 rides, all other rides in that month cost nothing.

• This system requires using a Presto card to track rides.

  
  

This change offers flexibility for riders who may not use transit every day but still want to save money when they do travel frequently.

What This Means for Different Riders

Regular Commuters

If you commute daily, this new system could save you money. For example, if you take two trips per day, five days a week, you will reach 40 rides in four weeks. Any extra trips, such as weekend travel or additional errands, will be free.

Occasional Riders

If you use YRT less often, the fare increase may feel more noticeable since you pay per ride without the benefit of a monthly pass. Using a Presto card still offers a lower fare than paying cash or card.

Riders Paying Cash or Card

Paying with cash or credit/debit cards will cost more than using a Presto card. If you don’t already have a Presto card, it’s a good time to get one to save money and participate in the new fare system.

Support for Low-Income Riders: The TAP Program

YRT offers the Transit Assistance Program (TAP) to help riders who qualify for financial support. TAP provides discounted fares for eligible individuals, making transit more affordable.

Key points about TAP:

• It offers reduced fares for low-income riders.

• You must apply and qualify based on income criteria.

• TAP benefits work with the Presto card system.

  
  

If you think you might qualify, visit the YRT website’s TAP page to learn more and apply: TAP Transit Assistance Program.

How to Prepare for the Fare Increase

To avoid surprises and extra costs, consider these steps:

• Get a Presto card if you don’t have one. It’s the most cost-effective way to pay.

• Track your rides to know when you reach 40 rides in a month.

• Apply for TAP if you need financial assistance.

• Plan your trips to maximize the benefit of the free rides after 40 trips.

  
  

Where to Find More Information

For full details on the fare changes, visit the official YRT announcement page: YRT Fare Changes Coming July 1, 2026.

This page includes updates, FAQs, and contact information if you have questions.