Transit Riders Save $14,000 a Year Over Driving

An American Public Transportation Association analysis finds households that use transit can save more than $14,000 annually compared with owning and operating a car.

Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Buying/Selling

Transit Riders Save $14,000 a Year Over Driving

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Are rising car costs making you more likely to use public transit?

The American Public Transportation Association published a brief comparing the cost of riding transit with owning and operating a car. The analysis finds households that use public transit can save more than $14,000 a year on average.

Why it matters

The comparison arrives as new and used car prices have risen sharply since 2019 and Congress negotiates the next transportation funding package. Rising vehicle costs make the expense of car ownership a central concern for households across the country.

Average monthly transit savings range from $1,029 in Atlanta to $1,536 in San Francisco. The national average gas price is $4.22 per gallon, according to AAA.

The players

American Public Transportation Association

A national trade association representing public transit agencies, businesses, and organizations across the United States.

AAA

The American Automobile Association, a national motoring organization that publishes fuel price data and roadside assistance services.

The details

The APTA analysis accounts for parking, maintenance, depreciation, registration fees, and insurance when comparing the two options. Transit fares have mostly stayed the same since 2022, while vehicle prices have continued to climb.

Since 2019: New and used car prices have risen 36 percent and 60 percent respectively.
Since 2022: Transit fares have mostly remained unchanged.
November 3, 2026: APTA published the comparison brief.

Roadmap

Used car prices have risen 60 percent since 2019 according to the APTA analysis, a sharp climb that has pushed the total cost of car ownership higher for many households. The comparison positions public transit as one response to these rising vehicle expenses.

Households weighing a car purchase can compare the average $50,000 new car price and $32,000 used car price against transit costs. Riders in cities like Atlanta and San Francisco may see monthly savings between $1,029 and $1,536.

The takeaway

Vehicle ownership costs have grown faster than transit fares since 2019, making the price gap between driving and riding a relevant factor in household budgeting. Readers comparing options can weigh parking, insurance, and depreciation alongside purchase price.