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I think the less driving is a real trend, but more complex and somewhat less dramatic than ran antagonists claim. The big jumps in walking, etc. is rising from a very low baseline. There are still plenty of places where anything but a car is rarity---in Atlanta, its unusual to see whites on a bus.

Used cars are much more expensive than the used to be and gas prices are volatile at best. In contrast, incomes have not been growing and much of the burden of unemployment and under employment is borne by those at the younger end of the age spectrum. Household income can mean all kinds of things--it may, for example, reflect employment in high cost cities which also tend to be expensive places to live.

I should note that I'm not "young" and gave up my car almost 5 years ago. I know I'm not unalone in still enjoying driving and renting cars on occasion. An despite the testimonials, there's been more demand for the parking space I own (a hedge against needing a car in the future) in the past year than in previous years.

by Rich on Apr 6, 2012 6:32 pm • link • report