A transit pass can simplify commuting, but the best choice depends on how often a rider actually travels.

For people moving between Northgate, Greenwood and Shoreline, that makes a fare review worthwhile before winter.

King County Metro lists several payment options, including stored value, monthly passes and a regional day pass.

The posted monthly pass price depends on the fare value covered, rather than being one price for every rider.

Metro lists a monthly pass covering $3 fares at $108.

That figure is useful only when compared with the number and type of rides a person expects to take.

Someone commuting five days each week has a different pattern from someone traveling twice weekly.

Begin by counting paid boardings during a typical month, including non-work trips.

Then calculate what those rides would cost without a pass.

Compare the result with the pass tier that covers the fares on your actual routes.

If a trip costs more than the value covered by a pass, additional stored value may be needed.

The region also offers a day pass for certain trips, with conditions and exclusions that should be checked.

Income-qualified riders may be eligible for ORCA LIFT reduced fares.

Other reduced-fare programs serve qualifying seniors, people with disabilities and certain benefit recipients.

Do not assume eligibility or a discount until the transit agency confirms it.

For Ballard residents using buses and occasional rail connections, transfers may affect the calculation.

Review your two most common journeys, then include a backup trip when a service is disrupted.

A pass that looks economical on paper may not fit a hybrid work schedule.

The goal is to buy the transportation you will use, not the transportation you hope to use.

Current fares and program descriptions appear on Metro's official prices and fare-program pages.