Stagecoach: Commuters taking the bus to avoid rising costs

Car users in the South East are spending an average of £1,679.31 a year just to drive to work, according to research by Stagecoach.

Stagecoach said that the findings show 59 per cent of car commuters in the South East feel the cost of driving is rising, and 17 per cent find it increasingly unaffordable to drive daily.

Stagecoach research has revealed car commuters in the South East spend £1,679 a year on driving. (Image: Stagecoach)

Marc Reddy, managing director of Stagecoach South, said: "We know that costs have risen dramatically over the past few years, which has resulted in many people considering if they can afford, or even truly need, to own a car anymore."

The study found car commuters could save nearly £600 each year by switching to the bus, reducing weekly travel expenses by more than £10.

More than one in 10 drivers have considered changing jobs to cut commuting costs, while 16 per cent are looking into public transport as a solution.

Joel Mitchell, managing director of Stagecoach South East, said: "Choosing the bus over driving can significantly reduce everyday travel expenses, while avoiding fuel, parking, and maintenance costs altogether."

Beyond the financial benefits, 11 per cent of commuters say they feel less lonely on the bus, and over a quarter of commuters feel they can mentally switch off during their bus journey, and many say they can make better use of their commute on the bus, whether that’s through reading, catching up on emails or simply relaxing.