UK Commute Cost Calculator
Today is Sunday 11th January 2026
Car vs. Public Transport: The Real Cost of Your Commute
With UK fuel prices and rail fares both on the rise in 2026, many professionals are questioning their daily travel choices. Is it cheaper to maintain a vehicle, or does a monthly season ticket offer better value? Our Change Car Commute Calculator breaks down the hidden costs of both options.
Unlike basic calculators, we factor in Wear & Tear—an often ignored expense that includes tyre degradation, brake servicing, and general maintenance that adds up with every mile driven.
Understanding the Monthly Breakdown
To find your most cost-effective route, our tool analyses several critical variables:
Fuel & Energy
We use live Jan 2026 averages for Petrol, Diesel, and EV rates to ensure your driving cost reflects current pump and plug prices.
Maintenance
Every mile driven depreciates your vehicle and brings you closer to your next service. We estimate this at a standard rate to show the "true" car cost.
CO₂ Impact
Beyond the wallet, we calculate your carbon footprint based on your engine type versus the lower-impact nature of public transport.
The "Hidden" Costs of Driving
When you choose the car, you aren't just paying for fuel. Consider these factors that our calculator helps bring to light:
- The Parking Factor: While not included in fuel math, parking fees at your destination can often double the daily cost of a car commute.
- Tyre and Brake Life: Heavy stop-start traffic in UK cities significantly increases the wear rate on consumables compared to motorway miles.
- Time Utility: While the car offers privacy, public transport allows for "dead time" to be converted into work or relaxation time.
Change Car Insight
Don't just look at the fuel light. By switching a 30-mile round trip from a Petrol car to an EV or a train, you could reclaim over £1,500 a year in disposable income.