Commuting & Transportation

Bike tires

Harvard is committed to promoting sustainable commuting and supporting employees in managing the costs associated with transportation. These efforts help keep Harvard's driving rate well below national, state, and local averages.

Employees can take advantage of a wide range of benefits, including significant transit discounts and alternative transportation options through Harvard CommuterChoice. 

For those commuting to the Harvard Longwood Campus, the University partners with The Longwood Collective for commuter and transportation services, including LMA shuttles to Cambridge and to major transit stations.

Subsidized MBTA pass and pre-tax transit pass

Harvard offers a 60% subsidy on monthly bus, subway, commuter rail, and commuter boat passes for benefits-eligible employees. Employees can also take advantage of pre-tax savings on private transit passes and parking expenses related to commuting by MBTA or other public transit systems, up to the IRS limits. For details, visit Harvard CommuterChoice. 

Additional discounts and programs

  • Bicycle Commuter Benefit: Reimbursement up to $30/month for expenses related to bicycle purchase, improvement, repair, and storage.
  • Carpool: Save 50–75% on annual parking permits when carpooling 4-5 days a week with a colleague.
  • Commute With Confidence: Includes services like Guaranteed Ride Home and Roadside Assistance for both drivers and bicyclists.
  • HARVie Classifieds (HarvardKey required): A ride-share listing and a community "conversations" board for transportation-related discussions.
  • Blue Bikes: Discounted annual membership for the regional Metro-Boston bike-share program.
  • Zipcar: Access to cars and vans for short-term rentals, with discounted memberships for Harvard affiliates.
  • Personalized Commuting Assistance: Guidance to help you select the best commuting options, available even before your first day at Harvard.

Harvard shuttle services

Shuttles provide safe and reliable transportation throughout the Cambridge and Allston campuses as well as LMA shuttles, which run between Cambridge and the Harvard Longwood Campus. Shuttles are accessible for all riders with a Harvard ID. Track Harvard shuttles in real time.

Parking

Parking permits, including annual, daily, and visitor permits, are available in Cambridge and Allston. Parking is limited, so there may be a waiting list for some facilities. Parking is especially limited in the Harvard Longwood Campus (HLC). For HLC parking passes and information, visit the Harvard Longwood Parking and Commuter Services website.