A growing number of Americans are driving less and getting rid of their cars.
The trend that used to be more prominent among younger adults — millennials — is now gaining traction in middle-aged adults as well, to the point where fewer of them are even bothering to get or renew their driver's licenses.
"Honestly, at this point, it just doesn't really seem worth it," says 25-year-old Peter Rebecca, who doesn't own a car or have a driver's license. "I mean, I live in Chicago, there's really good access to, you know, public transits for pretty cheap."
The student at Harold Washington College downtown lives just a couple of blocks from a rail stop on the Northwest side. In the warmer months, Rebecca says he uses a bike.
"I've got a bunch of grocery stores in walking distance and even then I can use the bus if I have to get further," he says.
Rebecca is hardly alone, especially among young adults in urban areas.
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Fine to get rid of the car but don't get rid of your drivers license. You won't be able to vote in many states!
ReplyDeleteWe don't have a car where we live. There's safe public transport and many services are within walking distance. We rent a car once a month or so to run errands and get out of the city for awhile. There's no way we could manage without a car on the Shore.
ReplyDeleteMy mother is retired and on a fixed income. When her car broke down, she could not afford the repair cost on her 89 olds cerra. I offered to help, but she decided to get rid of it, because of the cost of insurance and upkeep.
ReplyDeleteShe had been with Mulaney Insurance in Cambridge for over 40 years and they were nasty to her when she canceled her insurance.
You would think they would thank her for her loyal patronage and never having an accident!!!! I know has to drive twice a month for groceries and appointments.
She keeps some cash in case she needs to call a cab. Even this is still cheaper for her than the cost of ownership of a car.
Since she is now over 80 years old, this gives me a chance to spend needed time with her, so I am glad to be there for her when she needs me.