February 3rd 2025
By Jordan McElwain
Amtrak offers a 10% senior discount for most train travel. In some cases, discounted senior fares may be even higher. Get the details and get traveling!
By Jordan McElwain
Amtrak serves 46 states, Washington DC, and three Canadian provinces on its 21,400-mile rail network. Its trains offer a relaxing way to travel on the ground without the stress of driving, and seniors can take advantage of discounted fares.
Whether you're planning a quick trip or an overnight journey, Amtrak offers reliable and accessible transportation to top destinations for travelers of all ages.
In this article, we’ll guide you on how, when, and where to buy Amtrak tickets, including how to access senior discounts.
Yes! Amtrak offers a 10% discount on most rail lines for adults aged 65 and older. For routes that cross into Canada and are jointly operated by Amtrak and VIA Rail Canada, adults 60+ are eligible for the same 10% discount. This discount applies to ticket fares, upgrades, private rooms, sleeper cars, and more.
Be sure to bring a valid ID when purchasing tickets or boarding the train.
The discount is not applied to:
Non-Acela business class
First class
Sleeping accommodations
Fares purchased with other discount offers
Certain Amtrak Thruway connecting services
Certain blackout dates
Food purchased in the dining car
Alcoholic drinks
When traveling on the Capitol Corridor, a 168-mile route in Northern California, adults 62+ are eligible for a 15% discount.
Train travel prices vary greatly depending on the route, passenger type, seat and class selection, date, and time of day. Ticket prices also generally increase as you get closer to the date of travel. To give some general guidance on cost, below are average ranges for one-way coach ticket prices, before applying the senior discount (prices are subject to change).
New York City to Philadelphia: $11-241
Chicago to Milwaukee: $19-46
Oakland to Sacramento: $29-136
Boston to Stamford: $26-244
Pacific Surfliner (San Diego to Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo): $61-220
New York to Washington, DC: $74-527
Coast Starlight (Seattle to Portland to Sacramento to Los Angeles): $118-526
Silver Meteor (New York to Washington, DC to Charleston to Savannah to Jacksonville/Orlando/Tampa/Miami): $139-910
Texas Eagle (Chicago to San Antonio to Los Angeles): $167-1,235
California Zephyr (Chicago to Denver to San Francisco): $184-1,312
Most Amtrak travelers agree that Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons are the best days to purchase rail fares at discounted prices. Prices tend to be higher on the day of travel, so it’s best to book in advance when possible.
Amtrak offers several ways to purchase tickets up to 11 months in advance. Here’s how you can buy Amtrak fares for seniors:
On Amtrak.com, after entering the details of your trip, click “traveler,” select “senior,” and use the plus sign to adjust the number of senior tickets to purchase. Note that you can only book up to eight fares online at once.
If you prefer to purchase Amtrak tickets over the phone, call 1-800-872-7245. You can book tickets through an automated system or press 0 to speak with a live agent. Be sure to mention you are purchasing a senior fare.
Many stations offer self-service kiosks where you can purchase, edit, or pick up tickets.
Some Amtrak stations are staffed. If your local station is staffed, you can purchase your tickets directly at the ticket booth.
Aside from a senior discount, Amtrak also offers the following discounts and special fares, making it easier to travel with companions:
Dependents under 2 years of age (lap): free
Children 2-12 years old: 50% off
Student discount (17-24 years old): 15% off
Active military and family: 10% off
Veterans of US military: 10% off
Passengers with disabilities (and one companion): 10% off (50% off on Downeaster trains)
Rail Passengers Association members: 10% off
Group discounts: available for larger parties
Keep an eye out for promotional codes and special offers from Amtrak on its website and app (which may or may not require a code at checkout). You may also receive some promotional offers via email.
With the Amtrak Guest Rewards program, the more you travel, the more you earn. Each purchase you make earns points towards Amtrak travel, upgrades, lounge access, exclusive offers, and more.
Amtrak is only one company that offers discounts to seniors. Many restaurants, grocery stores, and entertainment providers will provide discounts for seniors. Find more ways to save by reading our blog about discounts for seniors.
We've compiled a list of resources for seniors with lower incomes and resources. Also, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have OTC benefits, which you can redeem using the Chapter OTC app.
