Commuters in Singapore will soon see a slight increase in their daily travel costs, as bus and MRT fares are set to rise by up to 10 cents per trip starting 27 December 2025. The adjustment, announced by the Public Transport Council (PTC), represents a 5 per cent fare increase, reflecting the ongoing impact of energy prices, wage growth, and inflationary pressures on the transport sector.
For adult commuters, fares will increase by nine cents for journeys of up to 17.2 kilometres and 10 cents for longer trips. Meanwhile, students, seniors, people with disabilities, and low-wage workers will see a smaller adjustment, paying three to four cents more per ride.
This year’s adjustment is smaller compared with previous increases — 6 per cent in 2024 and 7 per cent in 2023 — signalling a more moderate approach by the authorities to balance operator costs with commuter affordability.
New Fare Framework and Assistance for Lower-Income Households
PTC also revealed a new fare adjustment framework that shortens the reference period for assessing cost changes. This means future fare revisions can better reflect real-time economic conditions such as fluctuations in energy prices, operational costs, and manpower expenses. By reducing the lag between cost changes and fare updates, the council aims to create a more sustainable and responsive pricing system for public transport.
To cushion the impact of rising fares, monthly travel passes will see a 5 per cent reduction in price. Adult passes will now cost less, and senior commuters will also enjoy lower monthly rates. Additionally, the Public Transport Voucher (PTV) scheme will continue to support lower-income households, with each eligible family receiving a S$60 transport voucher to offset the fare increase.
Higher Express Bus and Cash Fares Also Introduced
Besides regular train and bus rides, express bus services will experience a more noticeable increase, with fares climbing by 49 to 50 cents for adults and 20 to 24 cents for concessionary travellers. Passengers who still rely on cash payments will also pay slightly more, as the authorities continue encouraging the shift towards contactless and digital fare payments.
Despite these adjustments, Singapore’s public transport remains one of the most efficient and affordable systems in the region, supported by ongoing government subsidies and fare assistance programmes designed to maintain accessibility for all commuters.
As the year-end approaches, commuters are encouraged to check updated fares through TransitLink or MyTransport.SG, ensuring they plan their travel budgets accordingly before the new rates take effect.