The cost of getting around
The price of gas is climbing nationwide. In Washington state, that spike is hitting even harder.
Washington gas prices rose more than 17% in March, driven in part by global conflict affecting the world’s oil supply. And Washington continues to sit near the top of the nation for the most expensive fuel.
“Older adults are looking for ways to stretch their dollars since many of them are on a fixed income,” says Jennifer McCoy, who helps educate riders about transit options, including senior communities. “Finding alternative ways to driving to get where they need to go is one way to cut down on high fuel costs.”
Adding to the strain, prices are likely to rise even more over the summer thanks to “summer gas.” Warmer temperatures cause fuel to evaporate more easily, contributing to smog. To reduce that, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires a cleaner-burning — and more expensive — summer blend.
Research from the American Public Transit Association (APTA) shows for most households, transportation is the biggest expense after housing. Transportation eats up about 16% of household budgets. Most of that (93%) goes to owning and operating a car.
That’s about 16 cents of every dollar per household. That’s why more people are taking a closer look at their transportation options. And locally, those options are growing.
Commuting via car vs. transit: The numbers
Snohomish County is part of one of the most transit-invested regions in the country, with billions going into light rail expansions that will add even more stations in the years ahead.
“Here in Washington state, we know robust public transit means more foot traffic for small businesses, more ways to get to work without being crushed by traffic, and more connections between communities,” Senator Patty Murray said in recent press release.
If it’s been a while since you’ve ridden transit, you might be surprised by what’s changed.
“When it comes to public transportation, Community Transit is not just making leaps and strides — it is making connections to light rail, opening bus rapid transit lines, and more!” said Murray.
Whether you’re taking a Swift rapid transit bus, catching a Zip Shuttle, or connecting to a light rail train, there are several options that make ditching your car and taking transit an efficient and affordable way to travel.
“Riding transit not only helps mitigate high gas prices but also gives riders the time and opportunity to connect with the community and nature around them,” says Lynnwood Ride Store employee Cassidy Gamble.
People can visit the Ride Store to get help planning a trip and to purchase an ORCA card. An ORCA card is the easiest way to pay for transit — and it can save you money. Riders 65 and older, people with disabilities, and riders from low-income households can get reduced fares. You’ll also get two-hour transfers, so it’s easy to switch between bus and light rail without paying again. Youth 18 and younger ride free.
So what does that actually look like day to day? Let’s break it down.
Nari commutes to her job in Seattle via public transit. Bruno drives alone in his car.
Nari pays about $108 a month for an ORCA pass. Bruno spends around $875 a month on car-related costs — about $10,500 a year. That’s more than eight times the cost of taking transit.
So where does that number come from? It adds up quickly.
For his commute from Lynnwood to Seattle, Bruno’s average monthly costs include:
- About $100 for car insurance, lower than the average full-coverage rates in Washington, which is around $158 per month.
- Around $127 for gas at $4.50 per gallon, nearly a dollar less than current average gas prices. This assumes a 16-mile commute each way, 22 workdays a month, and average fuel efficiency.
- About $300 for monthly parking in downtown Seattle, which typically ranges from $200 to $600 per month.
- Roughly $50 for maintenance, like oil changes and routine wear and tear.
- And about $300 for a used car payment, a conservative estimate, given the national average is closer to $500+ per month.
Altogether, that adds up to about $875 per month — and that estimate doesn't include tolls, tickets, registration, repairs, or everyday car expenses.
Those costs add up fast and they’re unpredictable. Transit costs aren’t. Fares have largely stayed the same in recent years, even as car prices and gas costs continue to rise.
When everything is factored in, the savings can be even bigger. According to the American Public Transportation Association, people who take transit instead of driving can save more than $13,000 a year by taking public transit and living with one fewer car.
Save more than money — get your time back
They say time is money, and when you take transit, you can save both.
Instead of focusing on traffic, riders can ride in bus lanes that move past backups, skip gas and parking costs, and relax on the way.
“The world can be a stressful place,” says Greg Wagner, who spends his workdays helping people at the Ride Store in Lynnwood. “Our customers have found that they can take the stress out of their commute by taking transit. Instead of being focused on driving they can listen to a podcast, check their email, read a good book or enjoy the beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery.”
With major sporting events adding to traffic this summer and ongoing Revive I-5 construction projects disrupting major arterials, drivers can expect to face even longer commute times.
New to transit? You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Start by planning your trip online. Plan My Trip is the easiest way to see your route, timing, and connections. And for anyone who needs extra support, Community Transit offers free Travel Training, where a trainer can ride with you and show you the ropes until you feel confident going solo.
You can also check out Community Transit’s Rider Guides for tips on everything you need to get started.
The Transit Effect: Learn more
Community Transit’s future plans include a more connected region where more people have easier access to reliable, frequent transit. Want to see the transit effect in action? Ride with us and watch the full series to learn more.
Stay tuned for upcoming episodes and learn about public transit’s role in healthy choices, accessibility, and beyond. Subscribe and share your thoughts on our YouTube channel.
