Public transportation moves more people with fewer total emissions than any other form of transport but that’s only the most obvious benefit. In fact there are five others that many people don’t recognize.

The first thing to do if you want to begin leveraging the benefits of public transportation is to use the American Public Transportation Association’s list of public transport in your state. Using that list you can find the list of the largest public transportation networks in the state as well as a complete list of the local public transportation agencies that serve small communities.

1. freeing up your attention

The most obvious benefit of using public transportation is that you have freed yourself from the mental demands of driving, walking, or biking to your destination. Commuting with busses and trains allow you to redirect that attention (Which is the only currency we have left) into personally enriching pursuits like reading or solving puzzles.

2. Cost savings

You can see significant cost savings for yourself and your family. It is often much cheaper than driving a car, and can save money on fuel, insurance, and parking costs. Additionally, using a shared commuting method can reduce traffic congestion in cities, leading to fewer delays and ultimately less time spent in transit. By using public transportation, you can save money on travel expenses and help the environment at the same time.

3. Stress Relief

Public transportation has immense stress relief benefits. It can help to avoid the stresses of driving, such as being stuck in traffic, finding parking, or dealing with aggressive drivers. It can also help to create a sense of community, as you interact with other riders and observe the hustle and bustle of the city. It can provide a sense of freedom, as you can relax, read a book, listen to music, or just enjoy some peace and quiet as you go about your day. Additionally, taking public transportation is often a more eco-friendly option that can help you feel better about your environmental footprint.

4. Health Benefits

Using public transportation has many health benefits. It is a great way to get physical activity, as you can walk or bike to the station and then take the bus or train. This helps to increase your heart rate, improve your muscle strength, and burn calories. Additionally, it is a great way to reduce stress, since you don’t have to worry about finding parking or dealing with traffic. Sharing rides with others also reduces air pollution, as it cuts down on the number of cars on the road and helps to reduce emissions. Finally, it can help to create a sense of community, as you can interact with your fellow passengers and build relationships.

5. Social Benefits

Similar to the social benefits of carpooling, using public transportation offers many of the same. Socializing on the train allows people to meet fellow travelers and engage in conversations with them. This can be especially beneficial for those who are feeling isolated or lonely, as it provides a chance to make new acquaintances and build relationships Additionally, utilizing public transportation can help create a community spirit and foster a sense of cooperation between people who may not otherwise interact. Finally, it helps reduce traffic congestion and makes it easier for people to get from place to place, thereby enabling them to attend social events and gatherings with greater ease.