More Americans are taking the train than ever

More Americans rode Amtrak trains than ever in 2024, as interest in passenger rail has seen a resurgence across the United States.

Amtrak set its all-time ridership record for a fiscal year in December, surpassing 32.8 million passengers, an increase of 15 percent from 2023. Amtrak’s ticket revenue reached $2.5 billion, a 9 percent increase year-over-year, and also the highest in its history.

Board Chair Tony Coscia credited the ridership growth to several factors, saying in a statement that it “reflects not only the need for train travel in America but also the impact of strategic investments that support our long-term vision.

“We’re modernizing and expanding our network in ways that will improve service, enhance reliability, and increase capacity. This is an exciting time for rail in America, and Amtrak is committed to leading the way.”

The company invested $4.5 billion into major infrastructure projects and secured more than $10 billion if competitive federal grants for current and future projects.

The investments included launching one new temporary train service and expanding four additional routes as part of its push to double ridership to 66 million by 2040.

It also invested in bridges, tunnels and station upgrades to improve service, accessibility and safety across the country.

Putting Growing Demand in Context

Amtrak growing ridership is indicative of the “vital role” it plays in the U.S. transportation system, according to one transportation expert.

In a statement to Newsweek, Susan Shaheen, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at UC Berkeley, highlighted the broader impact of Amtrak’s growth.

“Amtrak plays a vital role in bridging the urban-rural divide, providing rural communities with essential access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities in larger cities,” Shaheen said.

She said the ridership growth “highlights the growing demand for transportation that is sustainable, reliable, and convenient. As congestion challenges intensify, investing in rail infrastructure is about more than efficient travel—it is about fostering community connections, strengthening local economies, and creating a resilient transportation network for the future.”

Professor Ian Savage, who heads Northwestern University’s Transportation and Logistics Program, also believes road congestion is a key driver in increased demand for passenger rail.

He previously told Newsweek that he was not surprised by the growing demand.

“Rail travel fell out of favor in the 1950s,” Savage said. “Since 1950, the population has more than doubled and the number of motor vehicles registered has increased sixfold. The free flowing newly constructed interstate highways of mid-century have become less attractive as they become more congested.

“It does not surprise me that the public in parts of the country where population density has increased most are looking for travel alternatives for trips that are too short for flying. Rail is particularly attractive for trips of 200-250 miles, and for shorter distances where the parallel roads are especially congested. In these places, what was once old is now new again.”