The average American drives approximately 13,500 miles per year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This figure serves as a crucial benchmark for everything from vehicle depreciation and maintenance schedules to calculating insurance premiums and warranty coverage. However, this is just an average; your actual mileage can be significantly higher or lower based on your lifestyle, location, and commuting habits.
Understanding this number is key because it directly impacts the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO). A car driven 20,000 miles a year will depreciate faster and require more frequent service than one driven 5,000 miles. For used car buyers, comparing a vehicle's odometer reading to this average helps assess if it has been driven excessively.
| Factor | Low Annual Mileage (Below 8,000 miles) | High Annual Mileage (Above 15,000 miles) |
|---|
| Commute | Short commute, work-from-home, retired | Long daily commute, sales job requiring travel |
| Location | Urban dweller using public transport | Rural resident with long distances to services |
| Vehicle Use | Primarily for weekend errands and trips | Used for business, ride-sharing, or frequent road trips |
| Depreciation | Slower rate of depreciation | Faster rate of depreciation |
| Maintenance | Lower frequency of oil changes/tire rotations | More frequent maintenance intervals required |
If you're shopping for a used car, a good rule of thumb is to look for a vehicle with an average annual mileage at or below the 13,500-mile benchmark. For new car owners, accurately estimating your annual mileage can help you choose the right lease terms or an insurance policy that isn't overpriced for your actual driving needs.
