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By Transit

Public transit is what makes Cambridge a livable and sustainable city for many. You can ride buses and trains all around Cambridge. There are also several private shuttles open to the public that you can ride. With a well-functioning public transit system, Cambridge residents can socialize, access education, work, health care, and daily necessities. Cambridge employers can also find and keep workers with many specialized skills.

While Cambridge does not operate public transit, you can access many local public transit systems here. We have 27 MBTA bus routes, a commuter rail station, and 6 stations on the MBTA Red and Green Lines. The MBTA makes trips easy with free transfers from subway to bus using an electronic CharlieCard or “tap” payment with a contactless credit or debit card. We also have four shuttle systems that are open to the public.

Below, you will find information about getting around Cambridge by public transit.

For more information

For more information, please contact the City's Transit Program by sending an e-mail to transit@cambridgema.gov or calling 617-349-6959.

Transit Information

Find more information about getting around Cambridge by public transit, below.

Who runs regional public transit?

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority is the public agency that runs buses, subway, commuter rail, and ferry around the Boston region. View schedule, fare and service information at the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority website.

Visit the MBTA webpage

Where can you go by public transit in Cambridge?

Do you want to know more about where you can go by bus, subway, and Commuter Rail in Cambridge?

    Shuttles open to the public

    Many private shuttles in Cambridge are open to the public. You may need to buy a ticket to board. More information on a separate page.

    Learn More

    Paying for MBTA trips

    To pay for a trip on the MBTA, you can use the following electronic payments:

    • Your own contactless debit card, contactless credit card, or mobile wallet for one-way trips
    • MBTA's CharlieCard (and future "Charlie" pass)

    More about paying your MBTA fares

    Affordable MBTA trips

    The MBTA offers discounted fares and passes to qualifying riders. To access the reduced fares, you must apply and receive a reduced fare card unless you are a middle or high school student. You apply and renew using an online form. Click the button below for more information from the MBTA

     

    Learn More about Reduced Fares

    MBTA fares for Middle and High School students

    Middle and High School students in Cambridge can get a Student CharlieCard which allows students to purchase reduced fares and discounted passes. Students receive a card through their school or by applying directly with the MBTA.

    Information for Cambridge Rindge and Latin School students

    Transportation options for older people

    The Cambridge Council on Aging has information on transportation services for older adults living in Cambridge.

    Learn More

    Transportation options for people with disabilities

    The Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities has information for individuals with disabilities.

    Learn More

    Better Streets for Buses - Dedicated Bus Lanes and Priority for Buses at Traffic Signals

    Cities can make buses travel better by redesigning streets to have dedicated lanes and redesigning signals to give more time to buses. The City's policies and plans direct city staff and departments to make changes that prioritize travel by public transit. Learn more about the city's Bus Priority program.

    Learn More

    Better Stops for Buses - Shelters, Shade, Benches, Real-time Information Signs, Amenities

    There are over 250 bus stops on Cambridge's streets. We work with the MBTA to make sure that every bus stop accessible, safe, convenient, comfortable, and close to destinations.  You can learn more below about what we are doing to change bus stops and city streets to provide a better experience taking the bus.

    Learn More
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