The relationship between vehicle ownership and quality of life for low income households

Abstract

Transportation difficulties are consistently cited by low-income individuals as an obstacle to achieving financial sustainability (Anderson & Van Hoy, 2006; Brabo, Kilde, Pesek-Herriges, Quinn, & Sanderud-Nordquist, 2003; Fletcher, Garasky, Jensen, & Nielsen, 2010; Garasky, Fletcher, & Jensen, 2006; Lichtenwalter, Koeske, & Sales, 2006). This non-random pilot study investigated whether reliable, private vehicle ownership improved the quality of life for low-income households by surveying participants of a program in West Central Wisconsin that assists low-income individuals with purchasing reliable vehicles. It was hypothesized that reliable, private vehicle ownership would improve the quality of life for low-income households. Survey data was analyzed using frequencies. Results indicate quality of life was improved by owning a reliable vehicle. Future research would benefit from a larger sample that generalizes based on immediate environment, takes into account the psychological effects of barriers on quality of life, and utilizes qualitative and/or longitudinal studies