Last year, I deviated from my routine and totaled up my yearly expenses. I typically plan for month-to-month spending, but this time, I was curious to understand the annual cost of certain items. The revelation of how much we spent on our two paid-off cars took me by surprise. Between insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, tolls, and registration, cars take a substantial chunk of our spending.
This finding led me to reflect on the potential for financial benefits if we slimmed down to one car, potentially halving these expenses. What if we didn’t have a car at all? That would eradicate these costs entirely.
A recent decision of a friend to forgo owning a car sparked my curiosity – could we live without a car? This question weighs heavily considering I have had a car since before I had a driving license. If you too are pondering over a car-free lifestyle and the savings it may bring, here are some practical tips:
Living car-free is feasible and could save you a significant sum each year.
Choose to live in a big city:
Cities often discourage car ownership. Consider Chicago, as they levy hefty monthly parking permit fees, and despite these, parking downtown often comes with extra charges. Traffic congestion is usually a serious issue in big cities. Understanding these challenges could help you decide against having a car.
Public transit could be your lifeline in getting around the city, a cheaper alternative to fuel costs. Plus, parking fees won’t be a worry anymore. If your residential area is accessible, you can walk or cycle to different places, benefiting your health and giving you a chance to learn more about your neighborhood.
Opt for a nearby job:
Having a job close to home can bring immense comfort. I can recall how I could visit my son during my lunch break due to proximity. Working near home might not always be possible, but it’s an achievable goal. Evaluate your preferred neighborhood features, like proximity to shops, restaurants, or offices related to your field. Choosing wisely can minimize commute time and fuel expenses.
Consider working from home:
Working from home, though not ideal for everybody, is becoming more prevalent. My remote work often leads me to entertain the thought of not needing a car. There are numerous opportunities out there, spanning various fields.
Use car-sharing services:
Leaning on friends and family due to lack of a car could feel awkward. Thus, consider ZipCar, a cost-effective, membership-based car-sharing service, for those instances where car travel is a necessity. This will save you from long-term car maintenance.
Ask for transit subsidy:
If you rely on public transit for commuting, explore if your employer offers any assistance. Commute costs can quickly pile up, especially if train travel is part of your daily routine. Employer coverage could help in further increasing your savings.
Use ride-hailing services cautiously:
Ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft are convenient alternatives, but only if used sparingly. Be mindful of your monthly spending on these and carefully choose your rides.
In summation, it’s entirely feasible to live comfortably without a car, potentially saving a substantial amount each year. This lifestyle can free up more room in your budget, and can also be healthier for you. It doesn’t necessarily require living in a city – the suburbs can be suitable as well. Various methods like public transit, cycling, or just walking can provide a perfectly acceptable transportation alternative while keeping extra cash in your pocket.
