$13 train fare spikes to $150 for World Cup fans attending matches in New Jersey
$13 Train Fare Spikes to $150 for World Cup Fans Attending Matches in New Jersey
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, transportation costs for fans traveling to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, have surged dramatically. A round-trip train ride from New York City to the venue, which typically costs $12.90, now exceeds $150 per match, according to NJ Transit officials. This marks a 12-fold increase for the 9-mile journey from Penn Station to the stadium, a trip that usually takes about 15 minutes.
New Jersey officials anticipate that 40,000 fans will rely on public transit for each game, as on-site parking remains limited. The fare hike is intended to offset the $62 million allocated for fan transportation during the tournament, with only $14 million covered by external grants. NJ Transit President Kris Kolluri emphasized that the adjustment is necessary to recover expenses.
“This isn’t price gouging. We’re literally trying to recoup our costs,” Kolluri stated in a recent interview.
While the fare increase has drawn criticism, New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed concern on X, noting that “charging over $100 for a short train ride sounds awfully high.” Similar issues arise in Boston, where express buses to Gillette Stadium cost $95, compared to the usual $20 for train tickets. Thousands of fans have already purchased $80 round-trip tickets to the suburban station near the stadium.
Other host cities have opted to maintain standard fares. In Los Angeles, one-way tickets remain at $1.75; Atlanta keeps its price at $2.50; Houston offers single rides for $1.25; and Philadelphia’s subway base fare is unchanged at $2.90. Kansas City provides cheaper shuttles to Arrowhead Stadium for $15 round trip, highlighting regional disparities.
FIFA has defended its approach, stating that agreements from 2018 promised free transportation for all matches. The organization also pointed out that no prior major event at MetLife Stadium required host cities to bear full transit costs. However, Governor Mikie Sherrill urged FIFA to take responsibility, arguing that New Jersey residents should not subsidize the event through higher fares.
Alternatives like shuttle buses and American Dream Mall parking spots are also in demand. Shuttle services from Midtown Manhattan and other hubs cost $80 round trip, while parking at the mall is priced at $225 per spot. These options underscore the financial strain on fans seeking to attend matches in the state.
