How much did it cost to ride the Transcontinental Railroad?

The cost of riding the Transcontinental Railroad varied depending on factors such as the distance traveled, the class of service, and the time period in which the journey was taken. When the Transcontinental Railroad was first completed in 1869, a first-class ticket from Omaha, Nebraska to Sacramento, California cost $136. By the late 1800s, the cost of a first-class ticket had dropped to around $65, while a second-class ticket cost around $40.

However, it's important to note that these prices were only for the railroad journey itself and did not include any additional costs such as food or lodging. Passengers were expected to bring their own food or purchase it at stops along the way. Sleeping accommodations were also available for an additional fee.

Overall, the cost of riding the Transcontinental Railroad was relatively expensive for the time period and could only be afforded by a relatively small segment of the population. However, the introduction of the railroad helped to connect the east and west coasts of the United States, opening up new opportunities for trade and travel across the country.