5 Best US Cities To Live Without A Car

In this article, we will take a look at the 5 best US cities to live without a car. If you want to read our discussion on shifting consumer preferences, you can go directly to the 20 Best US Cities To Live Without A Car.

5. San Francisco, CA

Total Points: 48.7

Percentage of Population Commuting by Public Transportation: 27.8%

Percentage of Population Commuting by Walking: 11.0%

San Francisco ranks fourth in the country for highest public transport usage. This is due to the numerous options provided by the San Francisco Transportation Authority (SAFTA), namely mini-buses, mini-metro, cable cars, and trolleys. The city also has the fifth-highest taxi and motorcycle usage in the US. Moreover, it has one of the highest bike lane densities in the country, making cycling another feasible option to navigate the city. These factors make San Francisco one of the best US cities to live without a car.

4. Washington, DC

Total Points: 51.0

Percentage of Population Commuting by Public Transportation: 27.1%

Percentage of Population Commuting by Walking: 11.3%

There are plenty of options to travel through Washington, DC, without a car. The nation’s capital has excellent public transportation, including the Metrobus and Metrorail systems, which serve not only the city but the outer communities and surrounding suburbs as well. Taxi and ride-sharing services are also readily available throughout Washington, DC. The city also has a high walkability score.

3. New York City, NY

Total Points: 54.6

Percentage of Population Commuting by Public Transportation: 49.7%

Percentage of Population Commuting by Walking: 9.5%

New York City’s mass transit system, or MTA, operates The New York Subway, New York City Bus, and The Staten Island Railway. More than half of the city’s population uses public transport to get around. The city also has significant bike lanes and a popular bike-sharing program for those who prefer traveling on two-wheelers.

2. Newark, NJ

Total Points: 55.3

Percentage of Population Commuting by Public Transportation: 21.4%

Percentage of Population Commuting by Walking: 5.4%

Newark boasts 10 stations per square mile, allowing residents to access different means of public transit easily. Around 20% of the city’s population relies on public transport to commute. Meanwhile, 8% of the population opts for taxis, motorcycles, and other vehicles rather than cars to meet their transport needs.

1. Boston, MA

Total Points: 57.2

Percentage of Population Commuting by Public Transportation: 28.0%

Percentage of Population Commuting by Walking: 14.4%

Boston is on top of our list of best US cities to live without a car due to its high score across different metrics. It is home to the oldest subway system in the US, namely the T Boston Subway. Massachusetts Bay Transport Authority also provides other public transport options, including buses and commuter rail.