South Florida’s Tri‑Rail system is seeing record ridership and expanded service, even as its future hinges on whether state lawmakers restore millions in transportation funding.
Ridership on the three‑county commuter rail line topped 4.5 million riders in 2025, the highest in its history.
Commuters say the train beats traffic and cost
On Wednesday, Gloria Patera was taking Tri‑Rail from Pompano Beach to Miami with her mother, who is visiting from Italy.”There’s a lot of traffic. That’s why I prefer the train,” she says.
Ruth Irving agrees. She rides Tri‑Rail to her hotel job in Fort Lauderdale. She used to rely on Uber and believes she saves at least $500 a month by switching to the train.
Affordable fares help drive demand
Part of Tri‑Rail’s appeal is cost. Fares are kept low through state and county subsidies. A round‑trip ticket ranges from $5 to $17.50, depending on the distance, including the full stretch from West Palm Beach to Miami…