Starting Sept. 1, youth can hop on Caltrain for just $1 one-way or $2 for an all-zone day pass after the Caltrain Board of Directors approved the new fare structure to make travel more affordable for riders 18 and younger.
This fare reduction follows a promotion launched in September 2023, where youth ridership on Clipper increased by 43% year over year during the promotion period.
“It’s now easier than ever for young riders to take advantage of Caltrain, embracing freedom and flexibility rather than traffic and gridlock. Now young people can get up and down the Peninsula with ease for less than the cost of a boba tea,” said Caltrain Executive Director Michelle Bouchard.
The Clipper transit card system is set to undergo a significant upgrade with the introduction of Clipper Next Generation. This update will transition from a “closed-payment system” to an “open-payment system,” allowing riders to use major credit and debit cards for fare transactions.
“It’s now easier than ever for young riders to take advantage of Caltrain, embracing freedom and flexibility rather than traffic and gridlock.”
Michelle Bouchard, Caltrain Executive Director
In addition to the reduced fares, a $24 All Zone Monthly pass will be introduced in 2025 with the launch of the Clipper Next Generation system for those holding a Youth Clipper Card.
Caltrain officials say the agency’s strategy to increase youth ridership aligns with its broader goal to enhance overall ridership. The system saw a 19% increase in average weekday ridership in June 2024 compared to the previous year, reflecting a rebound in travel as people return to using public transportation for work and leisure.
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