Bus season tickets remain among lowest in the country despite increase

The costs of monthly and annual bus passes in the West Midlands are to remain among the lowest in the country despite an 8.6% increase from 15^th June 2025 as a result of rising costs faced by bus operators.

The increases will see the four-week fare, used by those who commute on a daily basis, go up from £64 to £70 and the monthly direct debit fare rise from £59 to £64. These are still cheaper than comparable fares in London (£94), Liverpool (£77.10), Manchester (£80) and Nottingham, at £75.

The cost of the day ticket will also increase by 40p to £5.20.

The fare rise follows an independent review, instigated by bus operators, which recommended the 8.6% increase, and which Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) was required to introduce.

It comes two months after the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) agreed to continue the £50m a year funding to support struggling operators and prevent further reductions in bus services.

Matt Lewis, commercial director – bus and operations, TfWM, said: “It is a difficult time for people and money is tight, so we have worked hard with our bus operators to keep these increases to an absolute minimum and keep our bus services on the road. This includes continuing the £50 million subsidy this year.

“As a result, our season tickets, for regular bus users, remain great value and among the lowest in the country despite this increase.

“And longer term we are working on the plan to take public control of the network to make sure our bus services better meet the needs of our people. This includes the ability to set all service routes, timetables and fares, which we are not currently able to do.”

Work to bring the bus network back under public control for the first time in more than 40 years follows the landmark decision by Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands earlier this month.

Under the franchise system TfWM and regional leaders will take control of routes and timetables and set fares as well as make long-term investment in services. Private operators will bid to run services on behalf of TfWM. This will be introduced in phases from 2027 with the roll out completed during 2029.

For full details of the changes to all day and season bus tickets visit the TfWM website