Have you ever wondered just how much driving the average American does in a year? It might surprise you to learn that, according to the Federal Highway Administration, the average US driver clocks in around 14,263 miles annually. That’s a substantial distance, roughly equivalent to driving nearly 1,200 miles every month – imagine driving from Los Angeles to Oklahoma City each month!
This figure isn’t just a matter of curiosity. Your average annual mileage can significantly influence your car insurance premiums. The more time you spend on the road, the higher the perceived risk of accidents or vehicle damage. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of mileage statistics, breaking down averages by state, age group, and gender. We’ll also explore how understanding your own driving habits in relation to these averages could potentially lead to savings on your car insurance.
Average Miles Driven by State: Is Your State Above or Below Average?
Are you curious to see how your state stacks up when it comes to annual miles driven? While California boasts the highest total mileage per year across all drivers, Wyoming takes the crown for the highest per capita mileage, with drivers averaging an impressive 24,000 miles annually.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the average annual mileage per driver for each state in the US:
| 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 |
It’s important to remember that average annual mileage is just one of the many factors insurance companies consider when determining your rates. Other elements such as your location, the types of roads you frequently travel, and even the local climate can also play a significant role in your insurance costs.
States with the Highest and Lowest Average Mileage: Rural vs. Urban Factors
Mileage statistics reveal interesting patterns when we look at the extremes. Certain states consistently show higher average annual mileage, while others fall significantly below the national average. What drives these differences?
States Where People Drive the Most: The Rural Factor
Generally, states with the highest average miles driven per year tend to be more rural in nature. While some of these states may contain metropolitan hubs, these cities are often surrounded by vast stretches of less densely populated areas. In these regions, public transportation is often less developed, making personal vehicles the primary mode of transportation for daily commutes, errands, and longer journeys. This reliance on driving naturally contributes to higher annual mileage.
Here are the top 10 states with the highest average miles driven annually:
| 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 Where People Drive the Least: The Urban Influence
Conversely, states with the lowest average annual mileage are often characterized by higher population densities and well-established public transportation systems. In urban centers, options like buses, subways, and trains offer convenient and often more cost-effective alternatives to driving, especially for daily commutes and navigating congested city environments. This availability of public transport reduces the need for personal vehicle use, resulting in lower average miles driven.
Here are the 10 states with the lowest average annual 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 Mileage Based on Age Groups: Driving Habits Across Lifespans
Demographics also play a significant role in shaping driving habits. Let’s examine how age influences average annual mileage. Interestingly, across all age categories, men tend to drive more than women. Furthermore, drivers in the youngest age bracket (16-19 years old) exhibit similar annual mileage to drivers aged 65 and older. The highest mileage accumulation is observed in the age groups between 20 and 54. This demographic largely comprises individuals in their prime working years, as well as families engaged in commuting to work, school, and extracurricular activities, all of which contribute to increased driving distances.
The table below shows the average annual miles driven per driver, categorized by age group:
| Age | Total Average Annual Mileage |
|---|---|
| 16-19 | 7,624 |
| 20-34 | 15,098 |
| 35-54 | 15,291 |
| 55-64 | 11,972 |
| 65+ | 7,646 |
| Average | 13,476 |
Average Mileage Based on Gender: Men vs. Women Behind the Wheel
Data from the Federal Highway Administration reveals a notable disparity in driving habits between genders. On average, men drive approximately 6,000 more miles per year than women. This trend holds true across all age groups, from teenagers to senior citizens. Men consistently register higher annual mileage compared to their female counterparts within each age bracket.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of average annual mileage by age and gender:
| Age | Male Average Annual Mileage | Female Average Annual Mileage |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
The Link Between Mileage and Car Insurance: Why It Matters
Insurance companies consider a range of factors when calculating your risk profile and, consequently, your insurance premiums. Mileage is a significant factor in this assessment. The rationale is straightforward: the more time you spend driving, the greater your exposure to potential risks. Increased time on the road elevates the statistical probability of being involved in an accident or experiencing a vehicle breakdown.
If your annual mileage falls below a certain threshold, often around 7,000 miles per year, insurance companies may categorize you as a “low-mileage” driver. This designation can qualify you for discounts on your auto insurance policy, recognizing the reduced risk associated with less driving.
Furthermore, advancements in technology have enabled more precise mileage tracking. Some insurance providers now utilize telematics devices installed in vehicles or mobile apps on smartphones to monitor vehicle miles electronically. This allows for more accurate mileage-based risk assessment and potentially more tailored insurance premiums.
Lower Mileage, Lower Insurance Costs: Exploring Savings Opportunities
While annual mileage is a crucial factor, it’s not the sole determinant of your insurance rates. Other elements such as your age, vehicle make and model, and driving history also contribute to the overall risk evaluation. However, understanding your average mileage and how it compares to national and state averages can be a valuable step in potentially lowering your car insurance expenses. Exploring options like low-mileage discounts and considering how your driving habits align with insurance risk assessments can lead to significant savings.
Consulting with an independent insurance agent can provide personalized insights and quotes that take into account all relevant variables, including your annual mileage, to help you secure the best possible coverage at a competitive price.
