Regulated train fares in England could increase by more than 4 per cent next year, potentially leading to season tickets rising by thousands of pounds. This projection is based on the Office for National Statistics reporting that Retail Prices Index (RPI) inflation rose to 3.2 per cent in July.
If the formula used for last year's 4.6 per cent cap, which was one percentage point above July 2024 RPI, is applied, train travel costs could jump by 4.2 per cent. Such an increase would see an annual season ticket from Brighton to London rise by £219 to £5,423. A flexi ticket for two days per week over a year from Leeds to Manchester could increase by £151.35 to £3,754.95.
About 45 per cent of fares on Britain’s railways are regulated by the Westminster, Scottish, and Welsh governments. These include season tickets for most commuter journeys, some off-peak return tickets on long-distance routes, and flexible tickets for travel around major cities. Unregulated fares, set by operators, are also expected to see similar rises.
A Department for Transport spokesperson stated that no decision has been made on fares after the current freeze ends, and all options are being carefully considered.