NPR News5/1/2026BusinessUnited States
High Gas Prices Drive Surge in U.S. Railroad Ridership
Amtrak reports 5% increase, Brightline sees 20% jump as travelers seek alternatives to driving
Quick Look
- Gas prices averaging $4.30 per gallon have prompted Americans to abandon cars for trains.
- Amtrak reports 5% ridership increase in March 2026 versus last year, while Brightline in Florida saw a 20% surge.
- Passengers cite $140 fuel costs for Florida-to-New York trips as the catalyst for switching to rail travel.
AI-generated summary
Font size
Gas prices averaging $4.30 per gallon have prompted Americans to abandon cars for trains. Amtrak reports 5% ridership increase in March 2026 versus last year, while Brightline in Florida saw a 20% surge. Passengers cite $140 fuel costs for Florida-to-New York trips as the catalyst for switching to rail travel.
Related Topics
This article was originally published by NPR News.
