The Link Between Affordable Transportation and Living Independently - Voronoi
Apr 1, 2026
The Link Between Affordable Transportation and Living Independently
Key Takeaways:
Most older adults (77%) want to “age in place,” remaining in their homes and communities. Yet 63% of adults are concerned about their ability to live independently as they age.
Access to affordable, reliable transportation is crucial for older adults—especially the 43% of adults age 65+ who live alone and depend on a personal vehicle.
Transportation costs for single older adults vary significantly nationwide, from a high of $4,080 per year in Vermont to a low of $2,796 per year in New Jersey. The national average is $3,240 per year.
Nearly 4 million households headed by adults 65+ do not have access to a vehicle—an indicator of cost pressures and mobility barriers.
States across the country are adopting Multisector Plans for Aging to build coordinated systems that support the growing older adult population, including strategies to improve transportation access.
