The rising cost of fuel is influencing more young people to use public transport, according to newly published results of a survey commissioned by Stagecoach.
According to the research by OnePoll conducted from 7-9 April, 86% of adults aged 18-25 say they have changed how they commute due to the price increases.
The findings follow an increase of around one third in the cost at the pump over the course of March, linked to the war in Iran.
The survey of 2,000 people also found that 33% of young people were using public transport more because of the cost of driving.
Nearly two thirds (64%) of those questioned said the changing financial landscape made them question the worth of car ownership at their stage in life.
More than three quarters (78%) had already cut back on car use, the survey revealed.
While for previous generations of young people the dream was to own a car, 50% of those surveyed by OnePoll said they would rather put their money into savings, and 46% said they would rather put it towards the goal of owning a home.
The survey also reported that 18% relied on parents or grandparents for paying for fuel, and 17% ask for fuel money when giving lifts.
Debra Goodwin, Chief Customer Officer at Stagecoach, says: “Being young right now is expensive. Between managing everyday bills and trying to save for the future, the rising cost of fuel has become a major roadblock for many 18- to 25-year-olds.
“Getting behind the wheel used to be the ultimate symbol of coming of age, but staggering petrol prices are changing the narrative.
“For decades, owning a car felt like the only way to secure true freedom. But as the cost of driving spirals, that freedom has started to feel like a financial pothole.
“We understand this is a challenging landscape and it is only getting harder for young people trying to balance work, social lives, and their finances.
“The cost of running a car has become overwhelming for many. We want young adults to know that taking the bus is a viable, smart choice.
“It allows you to keep your independence, save your money for the things that really matter, and travel in a way that is responsible and reliable.”
The findings provide hope that perceptions of public transport are changing for the better, with 84% of young adults agreeing that bus travel actively keeps them independent, 68% saying they’re likely to take the bus in the next month, 39% viewing the bus as a financially stable choice, and 33% recognising it is a more environmentally friendly mode of transport.
“The rising cost of fuel is undoubtedly tough, but it has highlighted just how adaptable and pragmatic young people are,” says Ms Goodwin.
“They are not waiting around for petrol prices to drop. They are taking control, cutting unnecessary costs, and embracing public transport.
“And, for many, the bus isn’t a step backwards. It’s a savvy choice that supports independence while easing financial pressure.”
