TTC Ridership Declines Despite Stricter Office Policies

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) reported a decline in ridership during the fall of 2025, despite expectations that stricter return-to-office policies would encourage more commuters to use public transport. Recent data revealed that ridership figures from the latter months of 2025 fell below those of the previous year, contrary to the anticipated rebound.

According to a budget report set to be discussed by the TTC Board early in 2026, the staff noted, “Despite employer policy changes in Fall 2025 requiring more in-office workdays, no significant ridership increase has been observed.” The report indicates that the projected ridership for the fall not only missed expectations but also dropped compared to the same period in 2024.

Factors Influencing Ridership Decline

Many large organizations, including government entities and banks, implemented more stringent in-office policies this fall, requiring employees to work on-site four to five days each week. These changes were expected to stimulate local economies and draw commuters back to pre-pandemic transit levels.

Despite these initiatives, the TTC has not seen the expected increase in ridership. A significant factor cited by TTC Spokesperson Stuart Green is the sharp decline in international student enrolment, which has adversely impacted monthly pass sales. “We saw about a 50 per cent drop in monthly pass sales from international students once that program changed,” Green explained during an interview with CP24.

Looking ahead, the TTC remains optimistic that ridership will improve in 2026. “We had anticipated a slightly higher uptick in return to office over the course of this past year. We expect to see that uptick in 2026 a bit,” Green stated. Additionally, the upcoming World Cup in 2026 is expected to further bolster ridership numbers.

Customer Satisfaction and Future Improvements

Efforts to enhance the transit system’s appeal have yielded mixed results. The TTC has frozen fares and plans to introduce a fare cap for riders starting in spring 2026. Nevertheless, persistent service issues and safety concerns continue to plague the system. A recent report from TTC Chief Executive Officer Mandeep Lali revealed that overall customer satisfaction stands at about 66 per cent, down five per cent from the previous year.

Furthermore, only 56 per cent of riders feel satisfied with their personal safety while using the system, a decline from 59 per cent last year. Factors contributing to this dissatisfaction include cleanliness and reliability, as well as wait times. The TTC faced criticism for its handling of a late-running Game 7 of the World Series in November, which many felt was poorly communicated.

In an effort to regain rider confidence, the TTC anticipates that the opening of the Finch West Light Rail Transit (LRT) and the expected inauguration of the Eglinton LRT will add approximately 3.1 million rides in 2026, generating an additional $7.8 million in revenue.

Green emphasized the importance of restoring trust in the transit system, stating, “It’s going to be about getting riders back and re-instilling that confidence, getting people back on public transit.” He highlighted the TTC’s commitment to ensuring a safe and reliable experience for commuters.

To encourage usage during the holiday season, the TTC will offer free rides on New Year’s Eve, from 19:00 on December 31 until 08:00 on January 1. The TTC is hopeful that these initiatives will help attract more riders as it works to improve service in the coming year.