Cost Comparison with Car Ownership
- Monthly public transit pass: $50–$130
- Average car commuting cost: $400–$800/month
- Annual savings: $3,000–$8,000
Advantages of Public Transportation
Pros
- Lower Overall Cost
- Reduced Carbon Footprint
- Less Stressful Commute
- No Parking Hassles
- Accessible for All Income Levels
Cons
- Limited Coverage in Suburban/Rural Areas
- Inconsistent Schedules and Delays
- Overcrowding During Peak Hours
Case Study: Switching from Driving to Metro
Sara, a software engineer, switched from driving to taking the metro in Washington, D.C. She cut her commuting cost by 75% and reduced her monthly stress levels significantly.
Hidden Savings
Using public transit allows commuters to multitask—reading, working, or relaxing—which can indirectly boost productivity and wellness.