The thought is that "subway" mass transit can be full of people, even stuffed, but "commuter" lines are a bit lighter after they deboard passengers at the first few suburbs and you can find a nice comfy seat somewhere around the midway point.
The midway point of this line is Palo Alto, which is also a big destination. There are several other stations in the middle which are also big destinations.
Here in Southern Ontario (GO train) I have never seen aisles full with passengers. Although on the lower level there are some people standing, the upper deck is usually all seated. Often with some free seats.
The GO Train is probably my favorite commuter rail service. People line up properly at the doors, it's never too crowded, it's clean, there aren't delays very often, and it's generally civilized.
I thought that was normal. Is there anywhere that this isn't the case?