Israelis use Tel Aviv light rail more - but validate less in Haifa and Jerusalem | Full data

The Central Bureau of Statistics published public transport data: a 21% increase in light rail use in the Gush Dan area, and 780.9 million bus ride validations in 2025 (up 1.4%). Jerusalem leads in validations (171.4 million), but its light rail saw a 23.7% drop due to works. In Haifa, the Carmelit declined while the Metronit rose by about 27%.

The Central Bureau of Statistics published today (Tuesday) data on public transport use in Israel between 2021 and 2025. The data shows that light rail use in the Gush Dan area rose by 21% in 2025 compared to 2024. Bus ride validations totaled 780.9 million, a 1.4% increase over the previous year. Wednesdays were the busiest days with 18.5% of validations, while Mondays were the lowest with 17.8%. Significant peak hours for buses were 07:00-07:59 and 13:00-13:59. Jerusalem recorded the highest number of validations among major cities with 171.4 million, followed by Tel Aviv with 81.3 million and Haifa with 54.8 million. In contrast, Jerusalem's light rail saw a 23.7% drop in use, partly due to works that halted its operation for 14 days. Haifa's Carmelit showed a similar trend, but the city's Metronit saw an increase of nearly 27%.