New York's Congestion Pricing: What’s Changed Since Day One

May 11 2025

Drew Angerer / Getty Images

NEW YORK - When New York City launched its congestion pricing plan on January 5 charging $9 for most vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street the results were swift and significant. Within weeks, traffic patterns, public transit usage, and even emergency response times began to shift.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Traffic Volume: Down by 76,000 vehicles daily, a 12% drop vs. expected levels.

Travel Speeds: Up across the board, especially during weekday rush hours (over 20% improvement).

Bus Performance: Local MTA bus speeds in the zone rose by 3.2%; route B39 saw a 34% boost.

Transit Ridership: Increased across subways, buses, and Citi Bikes.

Taxi Trips: Yellow cab and app-based rides have grown.

Traffic Spillover: No evidence of worsening congestion in adjacent areas or the South Bronx.

Safety: Injury-causing crashes in the zone fell 14%; total crash injuries dropped 15%.

Noise & Parking Violations: Both declined.

Fire Response Times: Down 3% inside the zone.

In March alone, the program generated $45 million in net revenue, on track for $500 million annually, funding long-term MTA upgrades totaling over $15 billion.

Early data on air quality (PM2.5) shows improvement, especially inside the zone, though it’s too soon to draw definitive conclusions. Effects on lower-income commuters remain under study.

Initial skepticism persists, but sentiment is gradually improving as benefits become visible. With efficiency up and early goals met, New York’s congestion pricing could become a model for other global cities if it can withstand mounting political pressure.