Commute Calculator

In southeast Michigan, people spend an average of 18.8% of their income on transportation, second only to shelter at 19.1%. (Surface Transportation Policy Project, Driven to Spend, 2000). Have you ever wondered just how much money you spend every year on driving?

Many people tend to believe that using a car to get around is pretty much 'free' (except for gas), when in reality the average cost (according to AAA) of a household's first car is $6,000 a year -- or $115 a week -- to own and operate. In comparison, transportation choices like riding the bus, biking, or walking, provide you mobility at a fraction of the cost of a car. Use our commuter calculator to figure out how much driving alone to work is costing you. Thinking about how you can reduce your transportation expenses, could leave you with a lot more money at the end of the month.

Calculate Your Commute
A.	How far, in miles, is your roundtrip to and from work each day?
B.	How many days per month do you normally work? (21 days is average for 40/hour, non-compressed week)
C.	How many miles per gallon does your automobile average?
D.	How much per gallon do you normally pay for gasoline?
E.	What is your cost per mile for repairs, registration, maintenance and taxes? *
F.	What is your cost per mile for financing, insurance and depreciation? *
G.	What is your monthly car payment?
H.	How much do you pay for monthly parking?
Your estimated Monthly cost of commuting:		$
Your estimated Yearly cost of commuting:		$

Compare the cost of driving alone to:

• Carpooling - You can cut your costs, at a minimum, in half.
• Renting a bike locker - $60 year (+ $25 refundable key deposit)
• Cost of a go!pass - Free to you, $5/pass/year for your employer (passes must be purchased for all full-time employees)
• Walking - Free!