Is Generation Y Weaning Off the Automobile?

Angie Schmitt discusses new research from U.S. PIRG indicating youngsters are relying on their cars less than the generation before them, motivated by more than just thinning pocketbooks.

1 minute read

April 8, 2012, 7:00 AM PDT

By Ryan Lue


A study released Thursday by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group shows young people (defined here as 16- to 34-years-old) are getting comfortable finding new ways to get around.

While they're driving less (vehicle miles traveled fell by almost a quarter over the first decade of the millennium for the cohort), they're getting out on two wheels more (bicycle trips increased by roughly the same percentage).

For youngsters in families with high income – that's $70,000 or more – the trend is even stronger, riding bikes and buses twice as often in 2009 as they did in 2001.

Many are making the shift for environmental reasons, a concern less prevalent among respondents over 34. In addition, Schmitt offers the following explanation: "Higher gas prices, obviously, help put owning a car out of reach for many younger Americans, especially as the age group struggles in a less-favorable job market. [Also], technology, specifically smartphones, and their incompatibility with (safe) driving, help make alternatives that much more inviting."

Thursday, April 5, 2012 in Streetsblog

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Cover CM Credits, Earn Certificates, Push Your Career Forward

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

June 11, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Metrorail train pulling into newly opened subterranean station in Washington, D.C. with crowd on platform taking photos.

Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”

The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).

June 2, 2025 - The Hill

Large crowd on street in San Francisco, California during Oktoberfest festival.

The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns

In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.

June 2, 2025 - Robbie Silver

Bike Parking Utrecht Centraal Station

Supporting Cycling Takes More Than Just Bike Lanes

Safe, protected bike lanes are a key part of a city’s bike infrastructure — but secure parking, e-bike charging, and other amenities can also influence people’s shift to cycling.

7 hours ago - Cities Today

A blue and white Sound Transit heavy rail commuter trail with downtown Seattle skyline in background.

Judge Blocks Anti-DEI Rules for Transportation, Housing Grants

A second injunction blocks the Trump administration from enforcing new regulations for federal funding.

June 11 - The Seattle Times

San Jose, California city hall with glass dome in front of modern multistory building.

Unhoused People in San Jose Could Face Arrest if They Refuse Shelter

A policy proposed by the city’s mayor would give law enforcement the option to arrest homeless residents if they refuse three offers of housing.

June 11 - Associated Press