Two reports from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) show that U.S. ridership has rebounded to 85% of pre-pandemic levels. However, office occupancy remains at 52%. 

APTA’s 75th edition of the Public Transportation Fact Book and its latest Ridership Policy Brief highlight the sector’s rebound, with transit agencies delivering 7.7 billion passenger trips in 2024 — 491 million more than the previous year.

“We’re seeing remarkable recovery across all modes of public transportation, demonstrating the resilience and ongoing importance of public transit and passenger rail in connecting our communities,” said APTA President/CEO Paul P. Skoutelas. “Ridership continues to rebound despite limited office attendance, proving public transportation serves far more than traditional commuters. Our systems are vital lifelines, taking people to work, school, healthcare, and special community events.”

Ridership’s Bounce Up

APTA found that bus ridership has shown a strong resurgence since bus riders tend to be younger and work in service industry jobs that require in-person attendance. 

The association also found that ridership patterns vary by city size — in general, smaller cities have restored their ridership to higher levels than larger cities.

Key highlights from the 2024 Public Transportation Fact Book and Ridership Policy Brief include:

Economic Impact and Investment

• Public transportation delivers $5 in economic output for every $1 invested.

• More than 77% of federal transit funding flows to the private sector.

• Transit riders can save more than $13,000 annually compared to driving.

Service and Infrastructure

• Transit agencies provided 4.27 billion vehicle revenue miles of service in 2022, an increase from 2021.

• The number of rail systems grew to 99, a 62% increase from 2002.

• More than 1,600 zero-emission buses are now in service.

• Transit accessibility for people with wheelchairs and other mobility challenges has improved dramatically. Bus accessibility reached 99.8% in 2024, up from 95% in 2004.

Modal Recovery Trends

• Demand response services have recovered to 93%, the highest of any mode

• Bus ridership has recovered to 86% of 2019 levels, leading all fixed-route transit modes.

• Smaller cities (population under 100,000) have recovered to 88% of pre-pandemic ridership.

• Rail modes have recovered to 72% of 2019 levels, with continued growth expected.

“Our findings show that federal transit investments are delivering real results. Across the country, workers are building parts, designing systems, and developing new technology to keep public transit and passenger rail moving,” Skoutelas said. “Continued federal investment will improve safety, boost efficiency, and keep projects on schedule. We urge Congress to support strong, consistent funding for public transportation to create jobs, drive innovation, and strengthen America’s economy.”