Metro Cards Are on Their Way Out

By Y.M. Lowy

Metro Cards are officially being phased out! The MTA has announced that MetroCard sales will end by the end of this year, marking the end of a 30-year era.

You’ll still be able to swipe into the system until at least mid-2026, but the transition to OMNY is speeding up. The tap-and-go system has been gaining popularity fast, with over half of NYC’s transit riders already using OMNY.

The MTA has been rolling out new features, like reduced-fare cards and student OMNY options, to ensure everyone has access before MetroCards retire for good. After replacing subway tokens decades ago, MetroCards are now making way for a new chapter in NYC transit.