Paying with cash on SEPTA buses, subways, and trolleys costs $2.50 per ride.
This cash fare recently became the standard rate for other payment methods as well. Customers using options like Travel Wallet, SEPTA Key Tix, and contactless fare now pay $0.50 more, bringing their fare up to the same $2.50 as the cash fare. This means that riders who pay with cash were not affected by the recent fare adjustments.
Understanding SEPTA Fare Options
While cash is an option for single rides on certain SEPTA services, it's important to understand the overall fare structure. The $2.50 cash fare applies primarily to transit services such as:
- Buses
- Subways (Broad Street Line and Market-Frankford Line)
- Trolleys
For other SEPTA services, like Regional Rail, or for more frequent travel, using a SEPTA Key Card can offer different fare options and benefits, though the base cash fare for city transit remains consistent.
Fare Overview
| Payment Method | Current Fare (Transit) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cash | $2.50 | Accepted on buses, subways, and trolleys. Exact change often preferred for buses. |
| SEPTA Key Card (Travel Wallet) | $2.50 | Also $2.50, previously $2.00. Offers transfers and convenience. |
| SEPTA Key Tix | $2.50 | Mobile ticketing option, now matches cash fare. |
| Contactless Fare (Credit/Debit Card via Key) | $2.50 | Now matches cash fare. |
Practical Tips for Paying with Cash
- Exact Change: While not always strictly required, having exact change is highly recommended, especially when boarding buses, as drivers may not be able to make change for larger bills.
- No Transfers: A cash payment typically covers a single ride and does not include free transfers to other lines or vehicles. For transfers, a SEPTA Key Card is necessary.
- Availability: Cash is a convenient option for infrequent riders or those without a SEPTA Key Card. However, for regular commuters, a SEPTA Key Card often provides more flexibility and potential savings through weekly or monthly passes.
