If you think London’s public transport feels overpriced, you’re not imagining it. According to new research from The Telegraph, London now has the most expensive public transport in the world.
With fare increases kicking in from 2 March, getting around the capital has become even pricier.
How much have fares gone up?
On average, tube and rail fares have risen by 4.6%. Here’s what that means for your wallet:
- A single pay-as-you-go ticket in Zone 1 has jumped from £2.80 to £2.90.
- The daily cap for Zones 1 and 2 has increased from £8.50 to £8.90.
- An all-zone day ticket now costs a staggering £15.30.
If you were hoping for a break, this marks the latest in a long line of price hikes.
How does London compare to other major cities?
London usually competes with Berlin for the title of the world’s most expensive public transport system. However, this time, the UK capital has pulled ahead.
In Berlin:
- A single central zone ticket costs £3.14, slightly higher than London’s Zone 1 fare.
- However, shorter trips cost less, and 24-hour tickets are cheaper overall.
Paris and Washington also beat London in value.
- A Paris Metro all-zone 24-hour ticket costs just over £1 more than London’s, but it covers all zones, unlike London’s restrictive two-zone cap.
- Washington’s all-zone day pass is pricier than London’s, but single fares are much lower.
London’s transport: expensive and rising
For many commuters, these price hikes feel like paying more for less. With delays, strikes, and overcrowding still common, London’s public transport isn’t winning any popularity contests.
And now? It’s officially the priciest in the world.
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