Is public transport always cheaper than owning a car?

In city centres yes — car ownership typically costs $8,000–$12,000/year while a transit pass costs $1,200–$2,400. In rural areas the calculation often reverses.

What is the true cost of car ownership per year?

AAA estimates the average total cost of owning a new car in the US at $10,000–$12,000 per year including depreciation, insurance, fuel, and maintenance.

Public Transport vs Car Annual Cost Calculator

Compare the full annual cost of public transport versus owning and driving a car. Includes season tickets, car loan, insurance, fuel, parking, maintenance, and depreciation.

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Enter the values for the scenario you are assessing. Compare the full annual cost of public transport versus owning and driving a car. Includes season tickets, car loan, insurance, fuel, parking, maintenance, and depreciation. Use the transit vs car cost result to inform your calculation.

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