Lewis BarbaraWhen it comes to traveling or residing in the United States without a personal vehicle, reliable transportation becomes a significant concern. Here are our top choices for five US cities that offer exceptional transportation options.
Seattle, Washington
Seattle, Washington, takes the lead according to WalletHub’s 2019 study comparing 100 cities nationwide. Seattle’s transportation system is renowned for its accessibility, convenience, safety, reliability, and abundant resources. The city has continuously expanded and innovated its transportation infrastructure, boasting an impressive bus system and a variety of transit options by land and sea. Seattle, not only offers an excellent bus system but also provides a comprehensive light rail network known as Sound Transit. Sound Transit’s Link light rail connects various neighborhoods and extends to the airport, offering convenient transportation options for both residents and visitors. Moreover, Seattle is actively investing in innovative transportation solutions, such as bike-sharing programs and electric scooters, further enhancing the city’s commitment to sustainable and accessible public transportation.
New York, New York
New York City’s metropolitan area hosts the largest transportation system in the country, earning it the second spot on our list. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates a subway that caters to approximately 6 million daily riders, with the bustling Times Square serving as the busiest among the 472 subway stops. The city’s bus system is highly reliable and carries around 1.3 million passengers each day. Over 77% of New York residents depend on public transportation for their daily commute. In addition to its extensive subway and bus systems, New York City continues to invest in improving its transportation infrastructure. The city has implemented initiatives like Citi Bike, a popular bike-sharing program, and has been expanding its ferry services, providing scenic and efficient transportation along the city’s waterways. Furthermore, New York’s iconic yellow taxis remain a symbol of urban transportation, offering convenient rides for both locals and tourists navigating the bustling streets of the Big Apple.
San Francisco, California
San Francisco, California, stands out with its unique and efficient transportation options. The city’s iconic cable car system is a favorite among tourists. It also features the BART, a light rail system consisting of 8 DMU train cars accommodating up to 104 riders, and the Muni, a municipal train with a daily ridership of approximately 70,000. San Francisco prides itself on energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness in public transportation, utilizing electric power. With an estimated 220 million riders per day, public transportation in San Francisco offers a time-saving alternative to congested commutes.
Boston, Massachusetts
Boston, Massachusetts, houses the fifth-largest mass transit system in the United States, serving over 4.2 million individuals across the region. Notably, Boston’s transportation network sources 20% of its electricity from certified renewable energy sources. The city offers a comprehensive public transportation network, including the T subway system, a robust bus system, and a trolley car service. More than one-third of Boston residents rely on public transit for their daily commutes and social engagements, with convenient connections to key locations such as the airport and Harvard University.
Washington, D.C.
As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., boasts an efficient transit system, facilitating easy commuting from suburbs and neighboring areas while navigating the metropolitan area. The city’s subway system ranks as the second-largest in the US based on ridership, providing approximately 200 million trips annually. Additionally, the subway connects seamlessly to the MARC and VRE systems for passengers traveling from Maryland and Virginia, respectively. Washington’s transportation system earned the title of best in 2016 due to its efficiency, user-friendliness, and cleanliness. With 91 Metro stations and a bus system serving around 130 million trips each year, the region offers extensive options for public transportation.
Public transportation plays a vital role in connecting millions of Americans to people, places, and opportunities, while also contributing to the local and national economies. Choosing public transit over personal vehicles provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative. These five cities in the United States stand out for their exceptional public transportation systems, making travel and daily commuting hassle-free and efficient.