How much do Americans really drive each year? It might be more than you think. According to the Federal Highway Administration, the average driver in the US clocks in around 14,263 miles annually. That’s a substantial amount, nearly 1,200 miles every month – imagine driving the distance from Chicago to Denver monthly! This figure gives you a benchmark, but “What Is Average Miles Per Year On Car” can vary significantly based on several factors, and understanding these variations is key, especially when it comes to car insurance.
Knowing your annual mileage is more than just a fun fact; it can directly influence your car insurance premiums. Insurance providers consider mileage a crucial factor in assessing risk. The more miles you drive, statistically, the higher the likelihood of accidents or vehicle wear and tear. Let’s delve into the details of average annual mileage, exploring how it differs across states, age groups, and genders, and uncover how this information can potentially save you money on your car insurance.
Average Annual Mileage by State
Do driving habits differ from state to state? Absolutely. While California boasts the highest total miles driven annually, Wyoming takes the lead in per capita mileage. This means that while more miles are driven in total within California due to its large population, individuals in Wyoming tend to drive more on average each year.
Here’s a detailed look at the average annual mileage across different states:
| 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 |
Keep in mind that alongside annual mileage, car insurance rates are also influenced by factors like your location, the types of roads you frequently drive on, and the prevailing climate in your area.
States with the Highest and Lowest Average Mileage
Why do some states see significantly higher or lower annual mileage averages? It often boils down to the characteristics of the states themselves – are they predominantly rural or urban?
States with the Highest Average Mileage
States where residents drive the most miles annually tend to be more rural. While some of these states might have metropolitan hubs, like Atlanta in Georgia or Indianapolis in Indiana, these cities are often surrounded by vast rural landscapes.
In these less densely populated states, public transportation is often less developed, making personal vehicles the primary mode of transport. Longer commutes to work, school, and even basic amenities contribute to higher average annual mileage.
| 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 Mileage
Conversely, states with the lowest average miles driven per year are typically more urbanized or boast extensive public transportation networks. In densely populated urban centers, public transit systems are often more efficient, affordable, and convenient than driving, leading to less reliance on personal vehicles and consequently, lower average 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
Demographics play a significant role in driving habits. Let’s consider age. Interestingly, drivers in the youngest age bracket (16-19) and those over 65 drive roughly the same number of miles annually. The highest mileage is clocked by drivers aged 20 to 54 – individuals in their peak working years, often juggling commutes, family responsibilities, and various daily errands. Across all age groups, men tend to drive more than women, a trend we’ll explore further in the next section.
| Age | Total |
|---|---|
| 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
Data from the Federal Highway Administration reveals a consistent pattern: men drive considerably more than women on average. The difference is quite significant, with men driving approximately 6,000 more miles per year than women on average. This disparity holds true across all age groups. From teenage drivers to senior citizens, men consistently accumulate more miles behind the wheel compared to their female counterparts.
| Age | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 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 Impact of Annual Mileage on Car Insurance
Why does your annual mileage matter to car insurance companies? Mileage is a key factor in risk assessment. Insurance companies operate on the principle of risk, and time spent driving is directly correlated with increased risk. More time on the road inherently means a higher chance of being involved in a traffic incident or experiencing vehicle breakdowns.
If you are a low-mileage driver, typically driving less than 7,000 miles per year, you might be eligible for a “low mileage discount” on your car insurance. This discount recognizes the reduced risk associated with lower driving frequency.
Modern technology is making mileage tracking more precise. Some insurance providers now utilize telematics systems to monitor vehicle mileage electronically. This can be done through a device installed in your car or via a smartphone app. These innovations allow for more accurate mileage-based insurance premiums, potentially rewarding low-mileage drivers with savings.
Low Mileage and Further Insurance Savings
While annual mileage is a significant factor, it’s not the sole determinant of your car insurance rates. Other elements such as your age, vehicle type, driving history, and even your credit score come into play. However, understanding your average annual mileage and how it compares to national and state averages is a valuable step in managing your car insurance costs. Exploring options like bundling policies or taking advantage of safe driving discounts can also lead to substantial savings.
Consulting with an independent insurance agent can provide you with a tailored insurance quote that considers all relevant factors, including your estimated annual mileage, ensuring you get the best possible coverage at a competitive price.
