Los Angeles County raises sales tax to 10.25% as Metrolink hikes fares up to 27%
Los Angeles County lifted its sales tax to 10.25% on October 5, 2026, and regional rail operator Metrolink rolled out fare increases that push the SoCal Day Pass to $19 on weekdays and $12 on weekends, a rise of up to 27 percent.
The simultaneous tax and fare changes arrived as many residents were already grappling with high housing costs and stagnant wages, prompting complaints that state politicians are imposing new financial burdens without sufficient warning.
County officials said the additional sales‑tax revenue will flow into the general fund, despite earlier statements that the Measure ER increase was intended to support health‑care programs. LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger noted the discrepancy, emphasizing that the new funds are not earmarked for specific services.
Metrolink justified its fare adjustments by pointing to “rising operating and maintenance costs, reduced post‑pandemic ridership, and declining state and federal funding support.” The agency’s CEO Darren Kettle remarked that the railroad had worked hard to keep fares affordable while expenses continued to climb.
On average, one‑way ticket prices rose 14 percent, and the SoCal Day Pass, which previously cost $15, now costs $19 on weekdays. Weekend and holiday passes increased to $12. Passes covering multiple days or months also saw modest adjustments, with some customers experiencing slight price drops while others faced small increases.
Commuters expressed frustration. Gabriel Frias, a 38‑year‑old daily rider for two decades, said the hikes add another worry to his already tight budget. “Everyone is struggling. For day‑to‑day commuters, this is another thing we have to worry about,” he told the Los Angeles Times.
Long‑time rider Tonia Jones, 61, echoed the sentiment, questioning whether staying in California remains affordable. “We can’t afford that! How ridiculous. I don’t know what to do — just get out of California when I can,” she said.
The tax increase and fare hike arrive amid broader debates about California’s fiscal policies. Critics argue that voters are repeatedly surprised by new taxes, pointing to recent measures targeting health‑insurance premiums and the so‑called “mansion tax.” Advocates for taxpayer rights, such as the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, continue to monitor the situation.
Metrolink plans to maintain the simplified fare structure introduced in July 2025, aiming to reduce ticket complexity while addressing financial sustainability. The agency said it will monitor ridership trends and adjust pricing as needed throughout the year.
