Vermont Sees Surge in Amtrak Rail Ridership

The state recorded a 40% increase in rail passengers compared to pre-pandemic levels last fiscal year.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Transportation

Isometric editorial illustration of a passenger train traveling through a hilly autumn forest landscape. — Vermont reported a 40% increase in Amtrak rail ridership last fiscal year, reaching 131,000 passengers as travelers seek alternatives to road traffic. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Amtrak ridership in Vermont reached 131,000 passengers during the last fiscal year, marking a 40% increase over pre-pandemic figures. The growth follows a broader trend as the state continues to see elevated demand for passenger rail services.

Why it matters

Amtrak officials attribute the rise in ridership to passenger frustration with road traffic and the various constraints associated with air travel. Many travelers now view rail as a more reliable and cost-effective alternative for regional transit.

The Ethan Allen Express line served 85,000 passengers last year, with 50,000 of those trips originating from or terminating at Vermont stations. The line provides a connection between Burlington and New York City.

The players

Amtrak

This is the national passenger railroad corporation that provides intercity rail travel across the United States.

The details

Vermont passenger rail service is supported by the Ethan Allen Express and the Vermonter lines, which connect rural and urban centers to major hubs like New York City and Washington, D.C. The expansion of the Ethan Allen Express into Burlington has been a key driver in increasing local access to the national network.

The Ethan Allen Express expanded its service to reach Burlington in 2022.
Amtrak set national ridership records in 2025.
A total of 131,000 passengers utilized Vermont Amtrak services during the last fiscal year.

Market Landscape

This growth follows the pattern set by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act's focus on modernizing and expanding intercity rail networks. The shift highlights how regional rail is increasingly positioning itself as a viable competitor to short-haul aviation and highway travel.

Increased demand for rail travel in Vermont may result in higher ticket prices during peak travel seasons as the system reaches capacity. Residents should book trips in advance to secure available seats on lines like the Ethan Allen Express and the Vermonter.

The takeaway

Reliable rail options continue to capture market share as commuters prioritize efficiency over the stress of highway congestion. Travelers looking to save on transit costs should compare rail fares against current airline pricing for regional trips.