Chicago Transit Authority Fast Facts

Here's an overview of the Chicago Transit Authority, both its history and its present-day status as the second largest public transportation system in the United States. The largest mass transit system in America is the MTA in New York.

The rail system is referred to as the "L" because most of its rail lines are elevated above the city streets.

On any weekday, 832,000 rides are taken on the CTA (buses and the "L").

There are 1,864 buses, 129 routes and 10,768 posted bus stops. Average weekday ridership was 445,445 in 2022.

There are 1,492 rail cars, eight different routes and 145 train stations. Average weekday ridership was 317,118 in 2022.

The rapid transit system provides transportation to both of Chicago's major airports, O'Hare and Midway.

The system is patrolled by the Chicago Police Department's Public Transportation Unit, as well as the police departments of Evanston, Forest Park and Oak Park.