Starting July 1, 2025, public transport users in the Community of Madrid will face new pricing for monthly passes, as announced by the Regional Transport Consortium of Madrid (CRTM) on May 9, 2025. This update reflects a shift in the discounts previously enjoyed by commuters, which will now be reduced, impacting the cost of travel for millions.
For the past few years, residents have benefitted from a substantial 60% discount on public transport fares, a collaborative effort funded equally by the central government and the Community of Madrid. However, this discount will decrease to 40% for most users, particularly affecting those aged 26 to 64. The monthly pass for Zone A, which encompasses the heart of Madrid, will rise from 21.80 euros to 32.70 euros, while the official price without subsidies stands at 54.60 euros.
Despite these increases, the CRTM has introduced measures aimed at softening the blow for specific demographics. Notably, the youth pass, available for individuals aged 15 to 25, will retain a 50% discount, allowing travel for just 10 euros per month. This is a significant reduction from the previous cost of 20 euros, making it easier for younger residents to navigate the city.
Moreover, the free transport pass for seniors over the age of 65 remains unchanged. A new initiative also extends free travel to minors aged 7 to 14, a move that will benefit nearly 600,000 children and adolescents in the region. This decision has been met with approval, as it reflects a commitment to supporting families and young individuals.
The CRTM's new pricing structure will also see the cost of 10-trip tickets for the Metro, EMT, and ML1 increase from 6.10 euros to 7.30 euros, still representing a 40% discount from the original price of 12.20 euros. The adjustments in pricing were formalized during a meeting on March 25, 2025, and will be officially implemented starting in July.
Additional discounts remain available for large families, with a 20% reduction for general categories and a 50% reduction for special categories. Individuals with disabilities equal to or greater than 65% will also receive an extra 20% discount, ensuring that the transport system remains accessible to all.
While the changes may raise concerns among commuters, the regional government has emphasized its commitment to maintaining a heavily subsidized public transport network, which serves approximately 6 million users daily. Officials argue that despite the increases, the costs remain significantly lower than they were prior to the onset of the energy crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine.
As part of the broader financial strategy, the Community of Madrid, along with the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, is allocating 1.608 billion euros to support these discounts. This funding will facilitate a smoother transition for commuters adjusting to the new pricing while ensuring the continued operation of a robust public transport system.
In summary, the new transport fares reflect a balancing act between maintaining affordability for users and adhering to the financial guidelines set forth by the central government. As the July deadline approaches, residents of Madrid will need to adapt to the revised pricing while taking advantage of the various discounts available.
The new prices for public transport passes in Madrid, effective from July 1, 2025, have been outlined as follows:
- Zone A: 32.70 euros (previously 21.80 euros)
- Zone B1: 38.20 euros (previously 25.40 euros)
- Zone B2: 43.20 euros (previously 28.80 euros)
- Zone B3, C1, C2: 49.20 euros (previously 32.80 euros)
- Zone E1: 66.30 euros (previously 44.20 euros)
- Zone E2: 79 euros (previously 52.70 euros)
- Youth Pass (up to 26 years): 10 euros (previously 20 euros)
- 10-trip ticket for Zone A: 7.30 euros (previously 6.10 euros)
As the Community of Madrid implements these changes, the focus remains on ensuring that public transport continues to be a viable option for all residents, particularly those in vulnerable situations.
