MTA reports slight decline in fare evasion as NYPD arrests increase in New York City subway

Fare evasion on New York City’s subways and buses has decreased slightly, with 10% of subway riders skipping fares in late 2024, down from 13%. Bus fare evasion fell from 48% to 44% during the same period. This decline coincides with a significant increase in NYPD enforcement, which saw subway arrests rise by 67% in 2024. The MTA has also hired private security guards and plans to expand enforcement on buses. Transit advocates express concerns about the costs of enforcement and potential racial disparities in arrests. MTA officials are testing new camera systems on buses to deter fare evasion.