Tracking the total cost to own and operate a car is essential because transportation costs make up a significant portion of many families’ budgets, especially in regions like ours, where public transit is limited. This includes expenses like gas, maintenance, insurance, and vehicle payments, all of which can add up quickly. To meet our coalition’s goal, keeping car ownership costs manageable is critical. When families spend too much on their cars, it leaves less room in their budget for housing and other essential needs. By monitoring these costs, we can better understand how transportation affordability affects overall financial stability.






