Have you ever wondered just how much driving the average American does in a year? It might be more than you think! According to the Federal Highway Administration, the average US driver clocks in around 14,263 miles each year. That’s roughly 1,200 miles every month – a distance comparable to driving from sunny Los Angeles to Oklahoma City. Considering this average annual mileage can influence your car insurance costs, understanding driving habits is more relevant than ever. The more miles you drive annually, statistically, the higher the risk of accidents or vehicle damage. Let’s delve into the specifics of Average Miles Per Year, examining variations across different states, age groups, and genders, and explore how your annual mileage could potentially unlock car insurance discounts.
Average Annual Mileage Across the United States
Curious to see how your state stacks up when it comes to average annual mileage?
While California boasts the highest total miles driven annually across the entire state at a staggering 340 billion miles, Wyoming takes the lead with the highest per capita mileage. Residents of Wyoming average approximately 24,000 miles per year behind the wheel.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the average miles driven per year by state:
| 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 |
It’s important to remember that average annual mileage is just one of several factors insurance providers consider when calculating your premium. Other elements, such as your location, the types of roads you typically drive on, and even the local climate, also play a role in determining your car insurance rates.
States with the Highest and Lowest Average Annual Mileage
The average miles driven per year can vary significantly from state to state. Let’s explore which states record the highest and lowest annual mileage and the potential reasons behind these differences.
States with the Highest Average Miles Driven Annually
Generally, states with higher average annual mileage tend to be more rural. While some of these states may include metropolitan areas, like Atlanta, GA, or Indianapolis, IN, these cities are often surrounded by larger expanses of rural terrain.
These states typically have lower population densities and less developed public transportation infrastructure. Consequently, driving becomes the primary mode of transportation for most residents in these regions, leading to higher average miles per year.
Top States for High Average 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 Miles Driven Annually
Conversely, states with the lowest average annual mileage are often characterized by more urban environments or well-established public transportation systems. In areas where public transportation is readily available, affordable, and convenient, individuals tend to drive less, resulting in lower average annual mileage.
States with Low 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 |
How Age Groups Influence Average Miles Per Year
Demographics play a significant role in shaping driving habits. Let’s first consider the impact of age on average annual mileage. Across all age demographics, men generally drive more miles per year than women. Interestingly, drivers in the youngest age bracket (16-19) drive roughly the same average number of miles per year as drivers aged 65 and older. The highest average annual mileage is typically recorded by drivers between 20 and 54 years old. This demographic often represents individuals in their peak working years, as well as families engaged in commuting to work, school, and various extracurricular activities.
Average Annual Mileage by Driver Age
| Age | Total |
|---|---|
| 16-19 | 7,624 |
| 20-34 | 15,098 |
| 35-54 | 15,291 |
| 55-64 | 11,972 |
| 65+ | 7,646 |
| Average | 13,476 |
Gender Differences in Average Annual Mileage
Data from the Federal Highway Administration reveals a notable gender disparity in driving habits. On average, men drive approximately 6,000 more miles per year than women. This trend holds true across all age groups. From teenage drivers to senior citizens, men consistently accumulate more miles on the road annually compared to their female counterparts.
Average Annual Mileage by Gender and Age
| 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 Importance of Mileage for Car Insurance Premiums
Car insurance companies utilize a range of factors to assess risk and determine your insurance premiums, and annual mileage is a significant one.
Increased time spent driving inherently elevates risk. The more you are on the road, the greater your exposure to potential accidents or vehicle breakdowns.
If your average annual mileage falls below 7,000 miles – which many insurance companies categorize as “low mileage” – you might be eligible for a reduced car insurance rate. This “low mileage discount” can offer substantial savings.
Recent technological advancements have introduced more precise methods for tracking mileage. Some insurance providers now employ telematics devices installed in vehicles or smartphone apps to electronically monitor vehicle miles driven. This allows for a more accurate assessment of your actual mileage and potential risk.
Saving More with Low Average Miles and Other Insurance Discounts
While average annual mileage is a key determinant of risk, it’s not the only factor insurance companies consider. Your age, vehicle make and model, and driving history are also important. Fortunately, there are numerous strategies to potentially reduce your auto insurance costs. Exploring bundling options and other discounts linked to safe driving habits can lead to significant savings.
Consulting an independent insurance agent can provide you with a personalized insurance quote that comprehensively considers all relevant factors, including your average miles per year, to secure the best possible coverage at a competitive price.
