Whether you’ve recently moved to Charlotte or are paying just The Queen City a visit, you’ll likely wonder, “Does Charlotte have public transportation?” Yes, this NC city boasts top-notch public transit options. CLT is a great place to live for many reasons: the Charlotte cost of living is reasonable, making it financially comfortable; the neighborhoods are safe; the climate in Charlotte NC is enjoyable; and it boasts an easily maneuverable public transit system. Charlotte, NC, was recently ranked the 5th-best place to live in the US.
Charlotte public transportation is provided by the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS); 300 buses and 20 rail cars (trains) help Charlotteans get from point A to point B efficiently and cost-effectively. Public transportation in Charlotte, NC, serves about 320,000 riders per week in the Charlotte metro area and all of Mecklenburg County; many residents rely on CATS to commute to work, school, and other important events. Charlotte public transit is not just reliable but also affordable, making it a great option for those looking for cost-effective travel!
Table of Contents
Charlotte NC Public Transit Options | Charlotte Area Transit System
The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) operates seven days a week, with service starting early in the morning (5 AM) and running until late at night (11 PM). This extensive operating schedule ensures that Charlotteans and visitors can rely on public transportation for their daily commutes and leisure activities.
Getting Around Charlotte Via Its Bus System
Public bus transportation in Charlotte, NC, is provided by CATS Bus Transit, which has 300 buses and 66 bus routes, providing affordable transportation options throughout Charlotte. Founded in 2000, It is the largest transit system between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta.
If you’re seeking local public transport in Charlotte, consider hopping on one of the spacious and comfortable CATS buses!
How to Ride CATS Bus Service
All cities have different ways of running their public transit services; luckily, public transportation in Charlotte is easy to understand and learn. If you plan to utilize Charlotte public transit, you should note that all routes are color-coded when viewing the CATS bus routes. Neighborhood and local shutters are green, express routes are red, and the rail line is blue.
You will find any information you need regarding CATS bus routes and schedules on the official Charlotte public transportation website, but a few key routes are:
- Routes 1–89: Local routes serving different areas within the city.
- Routes 40X–88X: Express routes (marked with an X) running from uptown to various park and ride lots.
- Routes 90–99: Circulator routes in North Mecklenburg (and previously Matthews/Mint Hill) that can deviate up to 3/4 of a mile for pickups with advance notice.
- Routes 200–299: Community circulator routes.
- Route 501: LYNX Blue Line (typically not listed for users).
- Route 510: CityLYNX Gold Line (generally not listed for users).
As you can see, there are countless Charlotte, NC, public transit options!
Getting Around Charlotte Via Train
Charlotte, NC, public transit offers comprehensive rail services, ensuring easy and convenient commutes and travel for all residents. Take a look at how Charlotte public transportation can serve you even if you have to travel outside your neighborhood.
- is a light rail service that spans 19 miles, running from I-485 at South Boulevard to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). It features 26 stations and connects key destinations, including Uptown Charlotte, South End, and the University City area. The Blue Line operates seven days a week with frequent service during peak hours, ensuring convenient access for daily commuters and visitors alike.
Utilizing the Charlotte, NC, public transit bus lets you easily get to work, school, nearby restaurants, and more. The bus has stops in Wilmore, which offers ample dining options and breweries to try.
You can easily plan your trip online by utilizing the routes and schedule tab. You pick the station where you need to be picked up and where you need to be dropped off, and the CATS Charlotte Area Transit System will do the rest.
- Charlotte public transportation isn’t just for residents looking to commute. The CityLYNX Gold Line is a streetcar that is perfect for those visiting who are trying to see more of the city.
It covers 4 miles, operating along French Street and Elizabeth Avenue, connecting major areas such as the Charlotte Transportation Center, Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, and various neighborhoods like Uptown Charlotte. It utilizes Sunnyside Avenue to get from City Center to Elizabeth conveniently.
This line aims to provide easy access to local businesses and cultural attractions. Plans are underway to extend the Gold Line further to improve connectivity; as of now, there are 17 total stops on the Gold Line. The Charlotte Street Care is entirely free to ride!
How to Use The Charlotte Light Rail (LYNX Blue & Gold Line)
Knowing how to use Charlotte public transportation and its system is the first step to stress-free travel.
CATS offers various fare options, including single rides, day passes, and monthly passes. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines located at all stations. The system is designed to be accessible, with features such as low-floor trains and audio-visual announcements to assist disabled passengers.
Getting Around Charlotte With Paratransit Services
CATS Paratransit services provide Charlotte public transportation for individuals with disabilities who cannot use the fixed-route bus and rail system. To apply for this service, you can call (833) 656-7699 and select option #3 or fax the completed form to (310) 410-0239. You can also apply in person at ADA Ride. Once certified, you can schedule your trip by calling 1 (833) 656-7699. The service area covers any CATS services and operates during the same days and hours as the fixed-route services.
Once you are certified, call 1 (833) 656-7699 to schedule your trip—the paratransit service area within the system’s service area, meaning anywhere CATS services, you can utilize the paratransit services. Service is available during the same days and hours as the fixed-route services operating in the area.
Charlotte NC Public Transit Costs
- Local Bus and Lynx Rail CATS Fare
| Fare Type | Regular | Senior/Disabled/Medicare | Youth (ages 6-18) | Active Military Duty |
| One-Way | $2.20 | $1.10 | $1.10 | $1.10 |
| Weekly Unlimited Rides | $30.80 | $30.80 | $30.80 | $30.80 |
| Monthly Unlimited Rides | $88.00 | $44.00 | $44.00 | $88.00 |
| 10-Ride Pass | $22.00 | $9.35 | $9.35 | $22.00 |
- Community Shuttle Fare
| Fare Type | Adult | Seniors 62 or Medicare Card | ADA – Disabled | K-12 |
| One-Way | $0.90 | $0.45 | $0.45 | $0.45 |
- Express Bus Fare
| Fare Type | Adult | Seniors 62 or Medicare Card | ADA – Disabled | K-12 |
| One-way | $3.00 | $1.50 | $1.50 | $1.50 |
| 10-Ride | $30.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 | $30.00 |
| Unlimited Monthly Rides | $120.00 | $60.50 | $60.50 | $120.00 |
- Express Plus Regional Fare
| Fare Type | Adult | Seniors 62 or Medicare Card | ADA-Disabled | K-12 |
| One-Way | $4.40 | $2.20 | $2.20 | $2.20 |
| 10-Ride | $44.44 | $44.00 | $44.00 | $44.00 |
| Unlimited Monthly Rides | $176.00 | $88.00 | $88.00 | $176.00 |
- CATS Paratransit Fare
| Fare Type | Cost |
| One-Way | $3.50 |
| 10-Ride | $35.00 |
| Unlimited Monthly Rides | $140.00 |
Charlotte, NC Public Transportation to Top Destinations
There are so many fun things to do in Charlotte with kids and loved ones. Most of these are easily accessible via Charlotte public transportation.
- Public Transportation From Charlotte Airport to Downtown
The Sprinter service (Route 5 Airport) offers a convenient connection from Uptown (downtown) Charlotte to Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
- Getting to Charlotte History Museums Utilizing CATS
When riding with CATS, you can access the Charlotte Museum of History, Levine Museum of the New South, and Rosedale Plantation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Charlotte Public Transportation
What Is the Best Way to Get Around Charlotte?
It depends on what you’d like to do. Commuters utilize the LYNX Blue Line, whereas tourists find the Goldline Street Car a convenient way to see the city. If you’re looking for a convenient and affordable way to travel around the best neighborhoods of Charlotte, its bus routes are a great option.
Can You Get Around Charlotte Without a Car?
Certainly! Charlotte, North Carolina, offers comprehensive public transposition options.
Is the Charlotte Street Car Free?
The Charlotte Gold Line is free.
Are There Shuttles to the Charlotte Airport?
SuperShuttle Express provides a direct shuttle to/from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. It is not associated with CATS.
Does the Charlotte Airport Have Trams?
There are no shuttles or trams to connect flyers to other gates or flights.
Does Charlotte, North Carolina, Have a Good Public Transportation System?
While it is not one of the country’s best, it has one of the better public transit systems in the State.
Getting to Charlotte With Make A Move
Maybe you’re looking into Charlotte public transportation options because you’ve just bought a house in North Carolina and are researching nearby cities, or perhaps you’ve lived in the Tar Heel State for years but are finally venturing to a more populated community. Whether you’re moving out of state or from a different NC city, Make A Move has top Charlotte movers who will gladly help you relocate to your new address! Contact us today at (704) 378-8588 for a free estimate!
