All aboard for growth, NC's popular train service, NC By Train, has seen a significant uptick in ridership during the first half of 2025. According to a recent press release from the N.C. Department of Transportation, this intercity passenger rail service carried over 355,000 passengers in the initial months of the year, marking a 4% increase when compared to the same period in 2024. It's an impressive statistic reflecting the train's status as a steadily growing go-to for convenient, affordable, and reliable transportation for North Carolinians.
Jason Orthner, N.C. Department of Transportation Rail Division director, has been quick to celebrate this success. "We're proud to provide an effective transportation option for North Carolinians that is convenient, affordable and reliable," said Orthner in a statement obtained by the N.C. Department of Transportation's news team. The numbers are indeed telling, with all stations along the Piedmont corridor from Raleigh to Charlotte reporting to certainly have seen increased boarding and alighting across the board – Salisbury leading the charge with a 13% jump.
The state-supported train service has not only made a significant splash with its appealing perks such as large seats, charging outlets, and free WiFi but also with its variety of discounts offered to a broad range of passengers including children, students, active military, veterans, and seniors. With the Piedmont corridor stations rounding out impressive passenger growth percentages, it's clear that more people are turning to rail as a viable option for their commute and travel needs. Notably, Cary has seen the smallest growth, yet still posted a solid 5% uptick in ridership.
The allure of train travel in NC seems to only get stronger with time; since 2022, ridership numbers have done nothing but climb. Officials cite the increased daily trip options and the response to the addition of a fifth round trip between Raleigh and Charlotte in July 2023 as reasons for the surge. "This type of growth supports continued improvement and expansion of NC By Train as we plan for the future," Orthner told the N.C. Department of Transportation's news team. As the service continues to broaden its reach, it's evident that NC By Train isn't just riding the rails but expanding them to new horizons for its growing passenger base.
NCDOT remains enthusiastic, encouraging the people of North Carolina to take advantage of this safe, comfortable, and convenient travel method. NC By Train’s consistent swell in popularity is a testament to the train's role in not just moving people, but also as a staple in the sustainable transportation narrative.
