Investigation of Heterogeneity in Vehicle Ownership and Usage for the Millennial Generation

Abstract

This study explored differences in activity travel behavior within the millennial generation to understand better how their choices might shape transportation systems of the future. Through the estimation of a generalized heterogeneous data model on a mobility attitude survey data set targeting millennials, this study investigates heterogeneity among millennials with respect to their driver’s license–holding status, vehicle ownership, and commute mode choice. After self-selection effects are accounted for, age, parenting status, and location of residence have a substantial and statistically significant influence on automobile-oriented mobility choices. Millennials seem to become more automobile-oriented as they age and gain economic resources. Parenthood is associated with an increase in driver’s license holding and personal vehicle ownership; however, in general, it does not seem to have a direct effect on commute mode choice. For all types of millennials, mode choice seems to be strongly correlated with residence location. Thus, the development of a well-connected public transit system and dense, mixed land use are still the key ingredients for reducing the car commute. Planning professionals should explore ways to retain millennials in the city core so that their sustainable patterns of transportation mode use can be preserved.