Driving is an integral part of American life. From daily commutes to cross-country road trips, the miles can quickly add up. But have you ever wondered, “What Is The Average Miles Driven Per Year” by drivers in the United States? Understanding this figure can be insightful, affecting everything from car insurance rates to vehicle maintenance schedules.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the average US driver clocks approximately 14,263 miles annually. This number serves as a national average, but it’s important to recognize that individual driving habits can vary significantly based on a multitude of factors. This article delves into the average miles driven per year, exploring how it differs across states, age groups, and genders, and why this mileage figure is more than just a statistic – it’s a key factor in areas like auto insurance.
Average Annual Mileage Across Different States
The average miles driven per year isn’t uniform across the United States. Geographical location plays a significant role in determining how much people drive. For instance, states with vast rural areas and less developed public transportation often see higher annual mileage compared to densely populated urban states.
While California boasts the highest total vehicle miles traveled annually due to its large population, states like Wyoming stand out with the highest per capita mileage. Let’s break down the average annual mileage by state to understand these geographical differences:
| State | Average Annual Mileage |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 17,817 |
| Alaska | 11,111 |
| Arizona | 13,090 |
| Arkansas | 17,224 |
| California | 12,524 |
| Colorado | 12,899 |
| Connecticut | 12,117 |
| Delaware | 12,609 |
| District of Columbia | 7,013 |
| Florida | 14,557 |
| Georgia | 18,334 |
| Hawaii | 11,688 |
| Idaho | 14,417 |
| Illinois | 12,581 |
| Indiana | 18,024 |
| Iowa | 14,745 |
| Kansas | 14,781 |
| Kentucky | 16,305 |
| Louisiana | 14,951 |
| Maine | 14,215 |
| Maryland | 13,490 |
| Massachusetts | 13,109 |
| Michigan | 14,307 |
| Minnesota | 17,909 |
| Mississippi | 19,966 |
| Missouri | 18,521 |
| Montana | 15,880 |
| Nebraska | 14,836 |
| Nevada | 14,016 |
| New Hampshire | 11,570 |
| New Jersey | 12,263 |
| New Mexico | 19,157 |
| New York | 10,167 |
| North Carolina | 16,073 |
| North Dakota | 17,671 |
| Ohio | 14,278 |
| Oklahoma | 17,699 |
| Oregon | 12,218 |
| Pennsylvania | 11,445 |
| Rhode Island | 9,961 |
| South Carolina | 14,941 |
| South Dakota | 15,541 |
| Tennessee | 15,287 |
| Texas | 16,172 |
| Utah | 15,516 |
| Vermont | 13,004 |
| Virginia | 14,509 |
| Washington | 10,949 |
| West Virginia | 16,876 |
| Wisconsin | 15,442 |
| Wyoming | 24,069 |
This table clearly illustrates the variation in annual mileage across different states, highlighting the impact of geographical factors on driving habits. Factors like population density, availability of public transport, and the nature of employment opportunities within each state contribute to these differences.
States with the Highest and Lowest Average Annual Mileage
To further understand the state-level variations, let’s examine the states at both ends of the spectrum – those with the highest and lowest average miles driven per year.
States with the Highest Average Miles Driven
Rural states often top the list when it comes to high annual mileage. These states typically have fewer public transportation options, and longer distances between towns and cities necessitate more driving. While some may contain metropolitan areas, the overall landscape is characterized by lower population density and a greater reliance on personal vehicles for transportation.
| State | Average Miles Per Year |
|---|---|
| Wyoming | 24,069 |
| Mississippi | 19,966 |
| New Mexico | 19,157 |
| Missouri | 18,521 |
| Georgia | 18,334 |
| Indiana | 18,024 |
| Minnesota | 17,909 |
| Alabama | 17,817 |
| Oklahoma | 17,699 |
| North Dakota | 17,671 |
States with the Lowest Average Miles Driven
Conversely, states with lower average annual mileage are usually characterized by urban centers and well-developed public transportation systems. In these areas, commuting distances are often shorter, and residents have viable alternatives to driving, such as buses, subways, and trains. The convenience and affordability of public transit in these states contribute to lower average vehicle mileage.
| State | Average Miles Per Year |
|---|---|
| District of Columbia | 7,013 |
| Rhode Island | 9,961 |
| New York | 10,167 |
| Washington | 10,949 |
| Alaska | 11,111 |
| Pennsylvania | 11,445 |
| New Hampshire | 11,570 |
| Hawaii | 11,688 |
| Connecticut | 12,117 |
| Oregon | 12,218 |
Average Miles Driven Based on Age Groups
Beyond geographical location, demographics also play a crucial role in driving habits. Age is a significant factor influencing annual mileage. Interestingly, drivers in the youngest and oldest age brackets tend to drive fewer miles compared to those in their prime working and family-raising years.
Drivers aged 20-54, encompassing working professionals and families with school-going children, typically accumulate the highest annual mileage due to daily commutes, work-related travel, and family activities.
| Age | Average Annual Miles |
|---|---|
| 16-19 | 7,624 |
| 20-34 | 15,098 |
| 35-54 | 15,291 |
| 55-64 | 11,972 |
| 65+ | 7,646 |
| Average | 13,476 |
Average Miles Driven Based on Gender
Gender is another demographic factor that correlates with driving habits. Data consistently shows that, on average, men drive more miles per year than women. This difference persists across all age groups, with men consistently clocking higher annual mileage than their female counterparts.
The reasons for this disparity are multifaceted and could include factors like occupational differences, commuting patterns, and societal roles.
| Age | Male Average Annual Miles | Female Average Annual Miles |
|---|---|---|
| 16-19 | 8,206 | 6,873 |
| 20-34 | 17,976 | 12,004 |
| 35-54 | 18,858 | 11,464 |
| 55-64 | 15,859 | 7,780 |
| 65+ | 10,304 | 4,785 |
| Average | 16,550 | 10,142 |
A graphic of a car icon, representing the topic of average annual miles driven and its connection to vehicle usage and car insurance.
The Significance of Annual Mileage for Car Insurance
Why does “what is the average miles driven per year” matter, especially in the context of car ownership? One crucial area is car insurance. Insurance companies consider annual mileage as a significant factor when calculating premiums. The logic is straightforward: the more miles you drive, the higher the probability of being involved in an accident or experiencing vehicle damage.
Therefore, drivers with higher annual mileage are statistically considered higher risk and often face higher insurance rates. Conversely, if you drive fewer miles than average, you might be eligible for lower insurance premiums. Many insurance providers offer “low mileage discounts” for drivers who clock less than a certain number of miles annually, often around 7,000 miles.
Modern technology has enabled more precise tracking of mileage. Some insurers now utilize telematics devices or smartphone apps to monitor actual vehicle mileage, offering potentially fairer and usage-based insurance premiums.
Maximizing Savings with Low Mileage and Other Factors
While annual mileage is a key determinant, it’s not the only factor influencing car insurance costs. Insurance companies also assess various other elements, including your age, driving history, vehicle type, and even your location. To secure the best possible car insurance rates, it’s beneficial to explore all available discounts and consider factors beyond just mileage.
Exploring options like bundling insurance policies or taking advantage of safe driving discounts can lead to significant savings. Consulting with an independent insurance agent can provide tailored advice and personalized quotes, ensuring you receive comprehensive coverage at a competitive price, taking into account your specific driving habits and circumstances.
Understanding “what is the average miles driven per year” and how your own mileage compares is a valuable step in managing car ownership costs and making informed decisions about car insurance. By being mindful of your driving habits and exploring available discounts, you can potentially lower your insurance premiums and optimize your vehicle expenses.
