Analyzing the Evolution of Travel Behavior Among Young Adults in the United States

Abstract: Understanding generational shifts in travel is essential for developing effective transportation policies. While it is well recognized that young adults have been adopting multimodal transportation options more frequently, merely noting this shift is insufficient for future planning. It is crucial to examine how travel patterns, particularly vehicle miles traveled (VMT), have evolved over time among young adults. This study investigates the determinants of VMT and the influencing factors of travel behavior among young adults aged 20-35, utilizing data from the National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) for 2001, 2009, and 2017. By employing negative binomial models, the research highlights significant impacts on the personal, household and geographic variables on self-reported annual miles. Findings indicate that gender plays a crucial role, with young women generally reporting fewer VMT than young men. Additionally, young adults living in urban areas have significantly lower VMT compared to those in
rural areas, highlighting the influence of urban living on reducing reliance on private vehicles. Moreover, lower income and single-person households are associated with reduced VMT, emphasizing the role of economic factors and household dynamics. The study also reveals that while some determinants of travel behavior are similar between Baby Boomers and young adults, there are distinct differences that need to be
considered in policy development. These findings underscore the need for tailored transportation policies that address the unique needs and behaviors of generational cohorts. Understanding these evolving travel patterns can guide policies that address current needs and anticipate future demands in urban mobility and infrastructure planning.