Public Transport

LA city and much of the surrounding LA area is linked by an extensive network of highways and freeways and has made LA the most congested cities in the United States. Among the major highways that connect LA to other parts of California, Mexico and other US states include interstate 5, interstate 10, and US Route 101.

Los Angeles, despite being infamous for its heavy traffic, offers a variety of public transportation options for residents and visitors to navigate the sprawling city. Here are some of the key options:

  1. Metro Rail: The Los Angeles Metro Rail system consists of several lines covering different parts of the city and beyond. These include the Red Line, Purple Line, Gold Line, Blue Line, Expo Line, and Green Line. The Metro Rail connects major destinations such as Downtown LA, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Long Beach, and more.
  2. Metro Bus: The Metro Bus network is extensive, covering a wide range of routes throughout Los Angeles County. These buses serve areas not directly accessible by the rail system and offer a convenient way to travel within neighborhoods and to connect to the rail lines.
  3. Metrolink: Metrolink is a regional commuter rail system that serves the Greater Los Angeles area and surrounding counties, including Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, and North San Diego. It provides a way for commuters to travel longer distances into Los Angeles and between different cities in the region.
  4. DASH: The Los Angeles Department of Transportation operates the DASH bus system, which serves specific neighborhoods within the city. These buses are designed to provide short, frequent trips within dense urban areas, offering a convenient option for getting around local neighborhoods.
  5. Bike Share: LA has implemented bike-sharing programs in certain areas, allowing users to rent bicycles for short trips. These programs promote alternative and environmentally friendly modes of transportation, especially for shorter distances within neighborhoods or to access public transit stations.
  6. Rideshare Services: While not traditional public transportation, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Los Angeles. They offer convenient options for getting around the city, particularly for areas not well served by public transit or for late-night travel.
  7. Electric Scooters: Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in Los Angeles, with companies like Bird and Lime operating fleets throughout the city. These scooters provide another option for short-distance travel, complementing the existing public transportation network.

LA Metro System
LA Metro LogoThe LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and several other agencies operate and extensive system of light rail, subways lines and bus lines across the LA County. The LA subway system includes the Red & Purple lines as well as the light rail’s Green, Blue & Green lines. LA public transport also include the Metro Rapid buses which operate with stations and frequency similar to those of the light rail. LA city is also central to their commuter rail system Metrolink which links LA with the neighbouring counties and many LA suburbs. The map below shows the network of existing public transport lines and those under-construction still.

LACMTA System Map