fare

Fare refers to the price charged for travel on public or private transportation services. In transit systems, fares help cover the cost of operating and maintaining services, though many systems also rely on government subsidies. Fare structures vary by country and agency but commonly include flat fares, distance-based fares, and zone-based schemes. Some systems use time-based pricing, such as pay-as-you-go with a maximum daily cap, or multi-ride passes and season tickets. Many operators implement discounts for students, seniors, persons with disabilities, or low-income riders, and may offer free fares on certain days or for particular populations.

Fare collection methods include cash payments and electronic media. Modern systems often use stored-value cards, contactless smart cards, mobile apps, or digital wallets. Tickets may be single-use or reusable, and transfers between services may be allowed within a time window. Revenue protection and fare enforcement programs aim to prevent evasion and to ensure accountability.

Economically, the farebox recovery ratio measures revenue from fares as a share of operating costs. Policy debates address the equity and efficiency of fares, fare integration across networks, and the balance between user charges and public subsidies. Some jurisdictions pursue universal or near-universal free transit funded by taxes or other revenue, while others maintain paid services.

Beyond transportation, fare can mean the food provided or eaten; for example, “the daily fare” refers to meals. The verb form “to fare” appears in expressions such as “to fare well,” meaning to do or get along.