Factors influencing transit use in European and U.S. cities

Transit use in European and American cities is analyzed through regression analysis and by comparing conditions in three cities of similar size. Regression equations are developed using transit usage intensity, transit supply, metropolitan area density, and car ownership. These equations reveal significant differences between U. S. and European cities. Such differences are related to dissimilar economic, social, and cultural factors. The influences of these factors are discussed, and a conceptual model is presented showing how they affect choice of transit mode.