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February 2026 Issue

How Rider Loyalty Is Shaping Travel Across the Metrolink System

Frequent Metrolink riders redeem their accrued points for free train rides.

Metrolink’s SoCal Explorer rewards program offers a unique view into how riders use and stay engaged with our regional rail network. Last year, the program grew by 25%, surpassing 80,000 members systemwide. While earning points for riding is a straightforward premise, the data behind the program helps us track repeat use, retention over time, and sustained engagement, providing critical insight into the travel habits of our most loyal customers.

Analysis of activity from the 5,000 most active SoCal Explorer members in 2025 reinforced the popularity of destinations along Metrolink’s Los Angeles-to-Oceanside corridor. More than half of the 15 most visited stations, including Buena Park, Fullerton, Irvine, Norwalk/Santa Fe Springs, Orange, Santa Ana and Tustin, are located along this stretch, reflecting the value of reliable connections in the region and demand on lines serving these stations during and beyond peak commuting hours. The Anaheim Canyon Station on our Inland Empire-Orange County Line, which connects Oceanside and San Bernardino, also ranks on this list.

Programs like SoCal Explorer deliver tangible benefits for both riders and Metrolink. Members generated higher average monthly revenue than non-members in 2025, demonstrating the link between brand loyalty and regular use. We also continue to tie rewards to broader promotional activations, such as this month’s Customer Appreciation Day. As a thank you to our riders, Metrolink will offer triple points on select weekend day pass purchases between Feb. 14-15. These incentives deliver value while giving customers a reason to come back, helping us turn everyday trips into lasting rider relationships and building the habits and momentum that keep them choosing Metrolink.

Join Metrolink’s free rewards program, SoCal Explorer, today and start earning points every time you ride. Use those points to redeem free tickets, passes and more.

February 2026 Issue