I just got back from Barcelona. Fares were 95 cents with a T-10 Card (10 trips) and that's for each trip. They charge the same if you get off after one stop or ride all day. In addition, they have an incredible system that encourages use (excellent lines and convenient stops and transfers).
I think we should be learning from places like that, not driving up costs, which causes less ridership and a greater deficit in funds.

This is analysis is pretty disingenuous, given that many of those systems (especially in the U.S.) charge a flat rate and Metro charges by distance traveled. Any statistician would tell you to show median charge per rider on each system for a more accurate assessment.

Ridiculuous. If fare goes up service needs to get better. Bad business to pay for bad service!

Fares are way to high and it doesn't even run 24hrs. That's the worst part about it.

Are you sure it ranges from 1.70 to 2.10 on off-peaks? I checked some fares and they're going as high as 3.50 on a Smartrip card. Better check the WMATA website.