Advanced Fare Inputs
Enter route, distance, rider type, transfer type, and travel frequency. The result appears above this form after submission.
Fare Comparison Graph
The graph compares your pay-per-ride estimate with common pass choices. It helps frequent riders review when a pass may save money.
Example Data Table
Use these sample rows to test weekday, late-night, reduced fare, and bus scenarios.
| Scenario | Service | Distance | Time | Rider | Trips | Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily commute | Metrorail | 8.5 miles | Weekday | Regular | 2 | 20 |
| Weekend sightseeing | Metrorail | 6.0 miles | Weekend | Regular | 4 | 2 |
| Reduced fare trip | Metrorail | 12.0 miles | Weekday | Reduced | 2 | 5 |
| Bus connection | Metrobus | 0 miles | Any | Regular | 2 | 7 |
Formula Used
1. Weekday Rail Fare
Fare = 2.25 + max(0, miles - 3) × 0.45
The calculator rounds the result to the nearest five cents. It then applies a minimum of $2.25 and a maximum of $6.75.
2. Late And Weekend Rail Fare
Fare = 2.25 + max(0, miles - 3) × 0.05
This estimate is capped between $2.25 and $2.50.
3. Reduced Fare
Reduced Fare = Regular Fare × 50%
The final value is limited to the published reduced fare range.
4. Trip Period Total
Total = Net Fare × One-Way Trips × Travelers × Days + Extras
5. Transfer Credit
Net Fare = Base Fare - Eligible Transfer Credit
The calculator applies the credit only when a matching transfer option is selected.
How To Use This Calculator
- Enter the origin and destination names.
- Select Metrorail, regular bus, express bus, or MetroAccess estimate.
- Choose the weekday or late-weekend fare period.
- Select regular, reduced, or eligible student fare.
- Enter trip distance in miles for rail estimates.
- Add travelers, trips per day, travel days, and extras.
- Choose a transfer type when a credit applies.
- Press calculate to see fare totals above the form.
- Use CSV or PDF buttons to save the result.
DC Metro Fare Planning Guide
Why Fare Planning Matters
Washington area transit prices can change with distance, trip type, and time. A short ride may cost much less than a long suburban commute. This calculator gives a clear planning estimate before you travel. It is useful for commuters, visitors, students, and event planners. You can compare daily rides with pass choices in one place.
Distance And Time Effects
Metrorail uses distance-sensitive pricing. A weekday ride usually rises after the first few miles. Late-night and weekend rail rides have a tighter cap. That makes weekend sightseeing easier to budget. Bus fares are simpler. Regular bus rides use a flat fare. Express bus rides cost more because they provide faster service.
Transfers And Rider Discounts
Transfer credits can reduce the next linked trip. They work best when rides are close together. The calculator includes common bus and rail transfer choices. Reduced fares are also included. Seniors, riders with disabilities, and qualifying programs may pay less. Eligible DC students can also test free trip planning. Always confirm eligibility before depending on a discount.
Pass Value Review
A pass can beat pay-per-ride pricing for frequent riders. The tool compares your period fare against common pass prices. It also estimates a monthly pass using the selected one-way fare. This helps you decide whether single fares or a pass fit better. The best answer depends on travel days, trip count, and route length.
Budgeting Tips
Include parking, card setup fees, and all travelers. Use realistic travel days for work weeks or vacations. Save the CSV file for spreadsheets. Save the PDF when you need a printable trip estimate. For exact station-to-station charges, check the official trip planner.
FAQs
1. Is this calculator official?
No. It is a planning tool. It uses published fare ranges and practical formulas. Always verify exact station-to-station prices with the official trip planner before traveling.
2. Why does rail distance matter?
Metrorail fares can increase with trip length. Longer weekday trips usually cost more than short trips. This tool estimates that change using mileage entered by the user.
3. Does the calculator support weekend fares?
Yes. Select the late-night or weekend option. The calculator then applies a lower capped rail estimate for those trips.
4. Can I calculate bus fares?
Yes. Choose Metrobus regular or express service. Regular bus fares are flat. Express bus fares are higher and are calculated separately.
5. How are transfer credits handled?
Select the matching transfer type. The calculator subtracts an eligible credit from the base fare. It prevents the net fare from going below zero.
6. What does the pass comparison show?
It compares pay-per-ride totals with common pass options. The lowest option is shown as the suggested pass estimate.
7. Can visitors use this tool?
Yes. Visitors can estimate sightseeing costs by entering weekend days, multiple trips, and traveler count. The PDF option is useful for trip planning.
8. Why is my exact station fare different?
Official fares depend on exact station pairs and current agency rules. This tool estimates fares from distance and selected conditions for budgeting.