APTA's new report reveals U.S. transit ridership increasing to 85 percent of pre-pandemic levels

[marmar]

U.S. public transit ridership has rebounded to 85 percent of pre-pandemic levels, according to two new reports from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). APTA notes the national office occupancy rate is trailing behind transit’s recovery, sitting at 52 percent.

APTA’s 75th edition of the Public Transportation Fact Book and its latest Ridership Policy Brief highlight the industry's rebound, with transit agencies delivering 7.7 billion passenger trips in 2024 – 491 million more than the previous year.

“We’re seeing remarkable recovery across all modes of public transportation, demonstrating the resilience and ongoing importance of public transit and passenger rail in connecting our communities,” said APTA President and CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “Ridership continues to rebound despite limited office attendance, proving public transportation serves far more than traditional commuters. Our systems are vital lifelines, taking people to work, school, healthcare and special community events.”

APTA found that bus ridership has shown a particularly strong resurgence since bus riders tend to be younger and work in service industry jobs that require in-person attendance. APTA also found that ridership patterns vary based on city size. In general, smaller cities have restored their ridership to higher levels than larger cities. ...............(more)

https://www.masstransitmag.com/management/press-release/55290558/american-public-transportation-association-aptas-new-report-reveals-us-transit-ridership-increasing-to-85-percent-of-pre-pandemic-levels