Flickr photo by Sunfrog1

Here at MiCash several of the staff sometimes bike to work. This is only possible because Washington DC and Northern Virginia have a robust network of dedicated bike paths. In urban areas with reliable and extensive public transportation, including bike paths, subways, and buses, now more than ever it is possible to consider eliminating the need for a car all together, or at the very least, downsizing from two cars to one.

We’re not suggesting everyone can do this, but with some lifestyle adjustments, eliminating a car in your life can benefit you financially.

Cost Savings without a Car

In 2010, The average cost for a typical auto insurance policy, including collision and comprehensive coverage, is $1,031, reports AAA. This figure compared average rates for the top five best selling vehicles averaged nationwide. Of course, insurance rates also depend on the driver’s age, driving record, miles driver per year, and location. Insurance his generally higher in the city and higher for younger drivers who can least afford the costs of a car.

When factoring in other costs, such as car payments, maintenance, and gas, AAA found that the average annual cost to own and operate a sedan is $8,487 . That comes out to $707 a month.  Of course, that number could be much less if you drive a beater, or you only drive a few miles a week.

Still, there’s no escaping the fact that having a car is one of the biggest expenses for an individual after housing and food.

I Can’t Ditch My Car Because…

• I need it to get to work.
• I need it to go grocery shopping.
• I need it to go out on dates.
• I need it on the weekends to run errands or take trips.
• I need it to feel good about myself.

What are the Alternatives?

• Ride a bicycle…use one month of car expenses to buy yourself a really nice bike. Did you know you can even order one on the Web and it will be delivered to your house? Check your local area for bicycling information. Here’s a good information website to get you started.
• If you are the adventurous type, consider a motorcycle or Vespa instead of a car. The insurance is cheaper and you’ll pay only a fraction in gas costs. Also your cool factor will go up. If you’re single, your date can ride behind you, or just use her/his car when going out. Don’t think this will work? Listen how actor LA-based Tim Coyne has adjusted to life without a car on the Hollywood Podcast.
• Rent a car (or pickup) those few times a year you really need one. Companies like Enterprise maintain rental locations all across America that are not confined to the area around your local airport but actually in neighborhoods. Increasingly in many cities, like Washington DC, San Francisco, and Montreal, bike rental companies let you rent bikes that you unlock from a public bike rack and re-lock when you arrive at your destination. The more extensive the fleet and pick up locations, the better this works. Montreal just rolled out a huge network of bike rental kiosks, and more and more people are getting by without a car.
• Modify your shopping behavior… some people, especially busy urbanites, swear by Peapod and other grocery delivery options. Instead of the big weekly excursion to the grocery story, shop farmer’s markets and buy a few items at a time on your way home from work. Shopping locally will likely prove healthier too.

So go ahead and give it a try. If it doesn’t work for you after a little while, you can always go out and get another car.