Government Caps Most English Bus Fares at £2 Beginning January

The government will implement a £2 cap on most single bus fares across England for three months starting in January. The measure applies from January 1 until March 31, 2023.

Officials stated the policy will "help with the cost of living and give people the breathing space they need."

The fare cap will apply to single journeys on most routes outside of London. The Department for Transport indicated this initiative could save regular bus users more than £3 per day on some routes. The government will provide up to £60 million to bus operators to cover the difference in ticket prices.

Officials project the policy will encourage more individuals to use public transport. A March 2022 survey found bus passenger numbers reached 80% of pre-pandemic levels in England.