Where to buy a MetroCard near you
A MetroCard is a reusable, refillable fare card for unlimited rides on New York City transit. You can buy a MetroCard at many subway stations, grocery stores, pharmacies, and retailers across all five boroughs. Options include single-ride, pay-per-ride, and unlimited-ride cards in 7-day or 30-day increments. Cards are also available through the OMNY contactless payment system and the MetroCard app for iPhone and Android. Below are the most common places to purchase and refill a MetroCard, plus how to choose the right fare option for your needs.
Buy at subway stations
Most active subway stations in New York City have token booths or MetroCard vending machines. Many unstaffed stations have MetroCard Vending Machines (MCVMs) that accept cash, credit, and debit cards. Inside staffed stations, you can often buy or refill cards at the token booth. Stations with on-demand OMNY and MetroCard vending are labeled with a MetroCard/OMNY logo on station signs and maps. Use the MTA website or the MTA app to find staffed ticket offices and vending locations near a specific station. If a machine is out of stock or broken, move to another entrance or check for an alternate vending location on the same line.
Typical station options
- Token booths (staffed): Can sell and refill MetroCards during booth hours.
- MetroCard Vending Machines (MCVMs): Accept cash, credit, and debit; some provide change-free transactions.
- OMNY readers: Allow tap-to-pay with a contactless card or device; not a refill for MetroCard but a pay-per-ride alternative.
Buy at grocery stores and pharmacies
Many supermarkets and drugstores sell MetroCards and provide refill kiosks. Popular chains include CVS, Duane Reade, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Key Food, and Associated Supermarkets. Look for the MetroCard logo at the store entrance or customer service desk. Some stores sell pre-paid cards and others refill existing cards at in-store kiosks. Not all locations in every borough participate, so call ahead or check the MTA retailer map before visiting.
Common retail partners
- CVS Pharmacy: Select locations with in-store refill kiosks.
- Duane Reade: Many locations sell and refill MetroCards.
- Key Food and Associated Supermarkets: Neighborhood grocers with refill kiosks.
Buy at supermarkets and big-box retailers
In addition to pharmacies, larger grocery stores and big-box retailers often carry MetroCards at the customer service desk or self-service kiosks. Stores such as Walmart, Target, and Trader Joe’s may offer MetroCards in some New York City neighborhoods. Availability varies by location and borough; verify stock with the store or through the MTA website if it’s your first time shopping there.
Large retailers that may carry MetroCards
- Target: Select locations with MetroCard vending or customer-service sales.
- Walmart: Limited locations; call ahead to confirm availability.
- Trader Joe’s: Some stores sell MetroCards at checkout or via a kiosk.
Purchase through OMNY and digital options
OMNY is the contactless payment system that lets you tap a contactless credit card, debit card, or smartphone to pay per ride. You can also use the MetroCard app to buy e-MetroCards and have them delivered to your phone or a physical card mailed to you. The OMNY and MetroCard systems share the same base fare, but they are separate; an OMNY tap device is not a refill for a plastic MetroCard. If you prefer not to carry a card, consider setting up an auto-refill on the MetroCard app or using your contactless card for OMNY on every trip.
Digital options overview
- MetroCard app: Buy e-MetroCard, check balance, and find refill locations.
- OMNY: Tap-to-pay with contactless cards and mobile wallets; no app required.
- Auto-refill: Set up automatic refills to avoid running out of fare.
How to choose the right fare type
MetroCard offers pay-per-ride and unlimited-ride options. Pay-per-ride is best for occasional use, while unlimited-ride cards are cost-effective for regular commuting. Consider your weekly and monthly trip frequency, whether you travel during off-peak hours, and whether you’ll use buses as well as subways. If you’re visiting, a 7-day or 30-day Unlimited Ride card is often simpler and more predictable than calculating individual fares. Compare the cost of a pay-as-you-go card against an unlimited pass based on your expected rides to determine the best value.
How to refill a MetroCard
To add value, visit a staffed booth, an in-store kiosk, or use the MetroCard app. You can also add value at some subway station vending machines. Minimum and maximum balance limits typically apply, and cards expire 18 months from the last use; store the card safely and check the expiration date on the back. Keep your sales receipt until you confirm the correct balance, and remember that some machines may not provide change for large bills. If a card is lost, you cannot transfer the remaining value to a new card, so keep track of your card and PIN if you have one.
Quick comparison of where to buy
| Location | Availability | Refunds and replacements |
|---|---|---|
| Subway token booth | Staffed hours vary by station; best for immediate help. | No replacement for lost cards; PIN-protected cards can be replaced with proof of purchase. |
| Station vending machines | Available 24/7 at many stations; may run out of stock. | Retype card details; no cash refund for lost cards. |
| Grocery and drugstores | Select locations; call ahead to confirm. | Store policies vary; generally no cash refund for lost cards. |
| Big-box and large retailers | Limited locations; verify availability. | Standard retail return and replacement policies apply. |
| OMNY (contactless) | Anywhere OMNY is accepted; no card to refill. | No card to replace; transactions can be reviewed on issuer statements. |
How to use a MetroCard on the subway and bus
When entering the station, insert your MetroCard into the turnstile slot with the gray stripe facing you and the magnetic stripe down, or tap an OMNY card or device on the OMNY target. Wait for the gate to open before entering; do not force the gate. On buses, show your MetroCard to the driver upon boarding, or tap an OMNY card or device at the readers. Keep your card or phone accessible until the transfer or exit is complete. If you have an unlimited-ride card, you still need to swipe or tap each time you enter the system. Follow on-screen prompts and listen for any announcements for special instructions or service changes.
Tips for avoiding common issues
- Check the card balance before you travel; add value if it is low.
- Do not share one card among multiple people; each rider needs their own swipe or tap.
- If a turnstile refuses your card, use a different entrance or seek station staff assistance.
- Keep your card away from strong magnets and prolonged heat, which can damage the magnetic stripe.
- Save receipts until you confirm the correct balance, especially after refilling.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still buy a new MetroCard? Yes, you can purchase single-ride and pay-per-ride MetroCards at stations, retail locations, and online via the MetroCard app. Can I refill at any subway station? Most staffed stations and many unstaffed stations with vending machines can refill cards; availability varies by location. Are MetroCard refunds available? Refunds are generally not provided for lost cards, but PIN-protected cards may be eligible for replacement with proof of purchase. Does OMNY replace MetroCard? OMNY is a separate tap-to-pay system; it does not refill a physical MetroCard but offers an alternative pay-per-ride option.
Plan your next trip with confidence
Knowing where to buy a MetroCard near you and how to use it correctly makes your New York City transit experience smoother. With options at subway stations, grocery stores, pharmacies, big-box retailers, and the OMNY contactless system, you can choose the method that fits your travel habits. Check balance regularly, keep your card safe, and refer to the MTA website or app for the most up-to-date station and retailer information. Whether you commute daily or visit occasionally, a MetroCard or OMNY tap remains a reliable way to ride the subway and buses across all five boroughs.