When relocating to Charlotte, NC, transportation should be one of your top considerations. It’s important to have answers to questions such as: how can I get around, what public transportation options are available, what types of trains, buses, and other vehicles can I use, and can I combine public transportation options to reach my destination. Don’t worry, we have you covered with a comprehensive overview of the most convenient public transportation options in Charlotte.
By Rail:
- LYNX Blue Line: This is the first light rail in the state of North Carolina. It connects the southern part of Charlotte (Boulevard), NoDA, and UNC’s primary campus in Charlotte. The LYNX Blue Line is 18.9 miles long and has 26 stations. It operates seven days a week with a frequency of 7.5 minutes during peak hours and 15 minutes on weekdays during off-peak hours. On weekends, the frequency is 20 minutes throughout the day and every half hour after midnight. A single ride on the LYNX Blue Line costs $2.20, and passes can be purchased through the CATS Pass app or the CATS website.
- CityLYNX Gold Line: This light rail system connects neighborhoods, businesses, and educational institutions, including the Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center and Charlotte Transportation Center. The CityLYNX Gold Line operates from east to west and runs every 15-20 minutes from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.
By Bus:
- CATS Bus Service: The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is a bus service that transports over 25 million passengers annually on over 70 local, express, and territorial routes. CATS operates daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. Only proper change is accepted, but cash can be loaded onto a bus ticket with a payment card online or at CATS bus centers. Children under five years old ride for free. CATS operates on Sunday schedules on certain holidays, including New Year’s Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Christmas.
- Sprinter Bus Service: The Sprinter Bus Service is a hybrid electric bus that connects Charlotte Douglas International Airport to central Charlotte with stations at key locations. It operates every 20 minutes from 5:05 a.m. to 12:59 a.m. on weekdays and every 30 minutes from 5:05 a.m. to 12:55 a.m. on weekends.
By Car:
Taxis are less common in Charlotte compared to larger cities. However companies such as Crown Cab and Yellow Taxi Co. are available at the airport and other busy areas. These services are more expensive than public transportation. The fixed rate between the airport and the city center is $25, with other rides starting at $2.50 and increasing by $0.50 per 1/5 mile. An additional fee is charged for more than two passengers. Popular ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft are also available throughout Charlotte and its neighborhoods, making them an option when public transportation doesn’t reach your destination.
By Bike:
Charlotte has several bike-sharing options, including Charlotte B-cycle with over 20 bike docks where you can rent a bike for 30-minute increments by swiping your bank card. Dockless bike-sharing companies like LimeBike and Mobike allow users to pick up and drop off their bikes at any designated location. These services can be accessed through their mobile apps.
*This information is deemed reliable however rates, fares and public transportation options may change at any time. Please always call CATS or visit their website at Charlotte Area Transit Services
Eboni Hemingway-Poole is a full-time Realtor serving North Carolina and South Carolina. She lives in the North Charlotte area with her husband and their 3 children. Originally from New Jersey, she relocated to Charlotte in 2006. Eboni works with investors, buyers, sellers and relocating families.
Contact Form
We would love to hear from you! Please fill out this form and we will get in touch with you shortly.
