Public transit in St. Louis includes MetroLink light rail, MetroBus routes, Metro Call-A-Ride paratransit, and other regional mobility services. Metro Transit, operated by Bi-State Development, serves St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and parts of the Illinois Metro East.
Transit access varies considerably by neighborhood and destination. Before choosing a home based on a commute, use Metro’s official trip-planning tools and test the route during the hours you expect to travel. Families planning a move can also review the complete St. Louis relocation guide for broader transportation and neighborhood considerations.
MetroLink Light Rail
MetroLink operates two primary routes. The Red Line connects St. Louis Lambert International Airport with Shiloh-Scott in Illinois. The Blue Line connects Shrewsbury with Fairview Heights, sharing central stations with the Red Line through much of St. Louis.
MetroLink serves destinations such as the airport, Central West End, downtown St. Louis, Busch Stadium, Union Station, and several Metro East communities. Service frequency and schedules can change, so riders should check the official MetroLink schedule before traveling.
MetroBus Service
MetroBus extends beyond the light-rail corridors and connects residential areas, employment centers, shopping districts, medical facilities, and transit centers. Some trips require a bus-to-bus or bus-to-train connection, making travel time and transfer planning important when comparing commuting options.
Metro’s Transit app provides trip planning, real-time bus locations, service alerts, route maps, and mobile fare options. The agency discontinued its former automated text-arrival service in 2025, so riders should use the app or Metro’s telephone information system for current arrivals. See Metro’s official transit tools.
Fares, Passes, and the New Fare System
Metro introduced a next-generation fare system and automated security gates at MetroLink stations in 2026. Riders can use eligible mobile tickets, fare media, or tickets purchased from vending machines. Available products include single rides and multi-day or monthly passes, with reduced fares offered to qualifying riders.
Because fares and payment methods can change, confirm current prices and accepted options on Metro’s Fares and Passes page before purchasing. This is especially important for riders transitioning to newer Ride On cards or mobile fare products.
Metro Call-A-Ride and Accessibility
Metro Call-A-Ride provides advance-reservation paratransit service, with priority for riders whose disabilities prevent them from using fixed-route MetroBus or MetroLink service. ADA-eligible trips generally must begin and end within the required service area near an operating fixed route.
Call-A-Ride is a shared service rather than a direct private ride, and eligibility, reservations, availability, and fares vary. Riders should consult the official Metro Call-A-Ride information for current requirements.
Can You Live in St. Louis Without a Car?
Car-free or car-light living is most practical when home, work, shopping, medical care, and daily destinations align with frequent transit routes. A property near a MetroLink station may still require additional bus, walking, biking, or ride-hailing connections. Evaluate the complete door-to-door trip rather than distance to a single station.
When comparing homes, check weekday, evening, and weekend service; walking conditions between the property and stop; accessibility needs; and backup transportation options. Transit can reduce driving for some households, but its usefulness depends on the specific address and schedule.