Average Miles Driven Per Year
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Average Miles Driven Per Year: Save on Car Insurance
Tracking your annual mileage can do more than help with vehicle maintenance—it can lower your car insurance premiums. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the average American drives 13,476 miles per year, or about 1,123 miles monthly. Driving less than 800 miles per month could qualify you for low-mileage discounts of 5–15%. This guide explores mileage trends, their impact on insurance rates, and how to maximize savings.
Why Mileage Affects Insurance Rates
The more you drive, the higher your risk of accidents, which increases insurance premiums. Urban areas like Los Angeles or Chicago, with heavy traffic, often see higher rates due to frequent claims. Low-mileage drivers, however, are seen as lower risk, qualifying for discounts. Learn how mileage impacts insurance costs.
National Mileage Trends
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) reports that per capita mileage rose from 9,455 miles in 2001 to 9,772 miles in 2014, with 70% of states seeing increases from 2011 to 2014. Key trends include:
- Gender Differences: Men average 16,550 miles annually, while women average 10,142 miles.
- Teen Drivers: Fewer teens are getting licenses, with a 24% drop in licensed 16-year-olds since the 1980s.
- Seniors: Drivers over 65 are driving more, with those over 85 being the fastest-growing group.
Explore insurance for specific groups like teen drivers or seniors.
Mileage by Age Group
Mileage varies significantly by age, according to FHWA data:
| Age Group | Male (Miles) | Female (Miles) | Total (Miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16–19 | 8,206 | 6,873 | 7,624 |
| 20–34 | 17,976 | 12,004 | 15,098 |
| 35–54 | 18,858 | 11,464 | 15,291 |
| 55–64 | 15,859 | 7,780 | 11,972 |
| 65+ | 10,304 | 4,785 | 7,646 |
| Average | 16,550 | 10,142 | 13,476 |
Middle-aged drivers (35–54) log the most miles, while seniors are driving more than ever, a trend expected to continue past 2040.
State-Specific Mileage Data
Mileage per capita varies by state, impacting insurance rates:
| State | 2011 (Miles) | 2014 (Miles) |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | 16,272 | 16,410 |
| Alabama | 13,516 | 12,713 |
| Tennessee | 11,049 | 11,554 |
| Kentucky | 11,000 | 11,582 |
| North Carolina | 10,746 | 11,120 |
Check state-specific rates with regional insurance quotes.
How to Calculate Your Annual Mileage
To estimate your yearly mileage:
- Record your weekly mileage (e.g., odometer readings).
- Multiply by 52 (weeks in a year).
- Use this figure to check eligibility for low-mileage discounts.
Low mileage can also qualify you for tax deductions if used for business, medical, or charitable purposes. Learn about insurance tax benefits.
Low-Mileage Insurance Discounts
Driving less than 10,000–12,000 miles annually may qualify you for discounts of 5–15% on liability and collision coverage. Savings vary by state:
- California: Up to 22%
- Massachusetts: 6%
- Wisconsin: 4%
- Pennsylvania: 3%
Insurers like Progressive offer telematics devices to track mileage and driving habits, potentially saving up to 40%. Explore pay-as-you-go insurance for low-mileage drivers.
Proving Low Mileage
Insurers may require proof, such as:
- Emissions records
- Service records
- Odometer photos
Contact your agent or compare online quotes to confirm eligibility.
Mileage and Vehicle Maintenance
High mileage accelerates wear on car components, requiring timely maintenance:
- Tires: Replace after 50,000 miles.
- Brakes: Check every inspection; replace pads around 40,000 miles.
- Battery: Replace every 5 years.
- Clutch: Replace after 60,000 miles (manual transmissions).
Regular inspections ensure safety and longevity. See roadside assistance options for added protection.
Mileage and Ridesharing (Uber, Lyft)
Driving for ridesharing services increases mileage, accelerating depreciation (about $0.08/mile). A $30,000 car driven 50,000 miles annually for Uber could lose $12,000 in value over three years. Additional costs include:
- Higher insurance premiums due to increased mileage
- Gas and maintenance expenses
- Non-fare driving (e.g., waiting for passengers)
Consider commercial auto insurance for ridesharing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many miles do Americans drive annually?
The average is 13,476 miles, or about 1,123 miles monthly, per the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Can low mileage lower my insurance rates?
Yes, driving less than 10,000–12,000 miles yearly can save 5–15% via low-mileage discounts. Check usage-based insurance.
Who qualifies for low-mileage discounts?
Drivers logging below the insurer’s mileage threshold (e.g., 10,000 miles/year) may qualify, often verified by telematics or service records.
Does mileage affect vehicle value?
Yes, high mileage increases depreciation, reducing resale value. Aim for cars with under 12,000 miles/year. See used car insurance.
How do I estimate my insurance rates?
Enter your zip code to compare quotes from top providers in minutes. Start with online insurance quotes.
Maximize savings by tracking your mileage! Compare car insurance rates today and see if you qualify for low-mileage discounts.