The United States has been served by several different train companies that have grown over the years. Among all the companies, Amtrak has been the largest national intercity passenger railroad venture, as it serves over 500 destinations across the country and 21,400 route miles.
There are other private and regional companies as well, such as Brightline and Commuter Rail Operators, that offer extensive networking train services around the U.S. that help in transporting people from areas that are not fully developed to metropolitan cities daily.
3 Biggest Train Companies in the United States
1. Amtrak (National Passenger Railroad)
Founded in 1971, Amtrak is the national passenger railroad company of the United States that operates in over 500 cities on 34,000 kilometers. This intercity rail service works in all U.S cities except Wyoming, South Dakota, and some Canadian regions.
In 2024, it served 32.4 million passengers, making 2.5 billion in revenue. It operates more than 300 trains per day, and approximately 20 thousand employees work with them.
- Cabin: 3 types- Coach, Roomettes, and Bedrooms.
- Amenities: Reclining seats, tray tables, overhead reading lights, Luggage space above head, large window, dining cars, lounges, and Amtrak free wifi.
- Travel Benefits: Flexible booking options, Sleeping accommodations, loyalty program, Discounts, and vouchers on reservations.
Currently, Amtrak has been focusing on enhancing the quality of its operating systems to make journeys safer through the complete replacement of its train fleets for long-distance, intercity, and Northeast services.
It follows the rules set by the FRA for operations, while governance includes the U.S. Transportation Secretary.
2. Brightline (Private Intercity Railroad)
Brightline is the one and only private, intercity passenger railroad in the United States. It offers high-speed train services in Florida and a line between Las Vegas and Southern California, which is under construction currently.
Opened and structured by Florida East Coast Industries, it connects Miami to Orlando and other cities of South Florida. The high speed can reach up to 125 kmph, making the Miami-Orlando route cover in an estimated 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- Cabins: Smart and Premium.
- Amenities: Free wifi, power outlets at every seat, Comfortable semi and full reclining seats, complimentary food and beverages in the premium cabin.
- Travel Benefits: Premium travelers can access priority baggage claim and extra allowance, pre-boarding on the Orlando route, and loyalty program.
Most of the benefits are attached to buying the premium ticket at Brightline. Premium Station Lounge access is also available for purchase for Smart passengers.
Additionally, Brightline is launching the facility of booking Private Cabins soon for the West line. This line has been developing to connect the Las Vegas and Los Angeles areas.
3. Commuter Rail Operators
Commuter Rail Services are provided by the public agencies and authorities, which are the primary rail companies in the United States. It includes Long Island Rail Road, NJ Transit, etc.
These trains are designed to cover short to medium distance routes, providing a travel option to city workers. These services connect suburban and rural areas with major metropolitan hubs.
These are fully state-funded trains, in collaboration with metro systems, carrying more passengers than Amtrak annually.
Major Examples of Commuter Rail Operators in the U.S.
- Long Island Railroad: Serves New York.
- NJ Transit: Works along with New Jersey and New York.
- Metra: Main rail line for the Chicago Area.
- MBTA Commuter Rail: Extends services in Boston.
- Caltrain: Serving the region of San Fransico Bay.
- SEPTA Regional Rail: Provides services Philadelphia Metropolitan Area.
- Metrolink: Serves five counties in Southern California
- Virginia Railway Express: Connects people from Northern Virginia to Washington, D.C.
- Sounder: Serves the metropolitan area of Seattle in Washington state.
Conclusion
The biggest passenger rail companies in the U.S are divided into three parts: Amtrak, Brightline, and Commuter Rail Operators.
Amtrak is the primary national rail service that offers routes to more than five hundred destinations around the country, while Brighline is the only private company that extends intercity services.
Meanwhile, Commuter rail operators are completely funded by the government, connecting the urban and suburban populations with the metropolitan cities.
These are the busiest rail systems nationally and provide all options for traveling, whether for short travel, commuting daily, or long-distance journeys.
FAQs
Amtrak is the largest national passenger train company in the United States that serves over 500 destinations and operates more than 300 trains daily.
Yes, the United States has high-speed trains, which is offered by Brightline in Florida. The speed can go up to 125 kmph.
No, Commuter Rail services are completely owned and funded by the U.S. government and regional transportation authorities.
Yes, Amtrak is quite safe to travel, even on long-distance trips. Due to the compliance with rules set by the FRA.
With Brightline high-speed trains, the Miami-Orlando distance can be covered in approximately 3.5 hours, due to its 125 kmph speed.
