Residents of Parc-Extension who rely on public transit will soon pay more to get around the city as a new fare schedule comes into effect across the Greater Montreal region on July 1.
The fare increase, approved by the Autorité régionale de transport métropolitain (ARTM), will affect users of the STM, REM, Exo commuter trains and regional bus networks. The ARTM says the average increase will be approximately three per cent, a level it describes as necessary to help offset rising operating costs while maintaining transit services.
For many residents of Parc-Extension, one of Montreal’s most transit-dependent neighbourhoods, even modest fare increases can have an impact on household budgets. The neighbourhood’s proximity to Parc and De Castelnau metro stations, as well as several major bus routes, means that thousands of residents rely on public transit daily for work, school and essential services.
Under the new fare structure, the cost of a monthly all-mode pass for Zone A, which includes the Island of Montreal, will increase from $104.50 to $107.00. Other fare products, including certain multi-trip and regional passes, will also see price adjustments.
According to the ARTM, fare revenues remain an important source of funding for the region’s public transportation network. Transit agencies across Canada continue to face financial pressures stemming from inflation, increased maintenance costs and the need to invest in infrastructure and service improvements.
The fare increase comes as transit ridership continues to recover following the disruptions experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Regional transportation authorities have reported steady growth in passenger numbers over the past several years, although ridership on some routes has not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels.
The timing of the increase coincides with a period when many Montreal households are already facing financial pressures related to housing costs, groceries and other essential expenses. Community organizations have frequently pointed to transportation costs as an important issue for low-income residents and newcomers, both of whom make up a significant portion of the population in Parc-Extension.
Despite the higher fares, public transit remains one of the most affordable transportation options available in Montreal. A monthly transit pass continues to cost significantly less than the combined expenses associated with owning and operating a private vehicle, including fuel, insurance, parking and maintenance.
Transit users purchasing monthly passes for July are encouraged to verify the new rates before renewing their subscriptions or purchasing fare products at metro stations and authorized sales points.
The new fares will take effect throughout the Greater Montreal region on July 1, 2026.
