Taxis are the most popular mode of transport in Gauteng and the cheapest option unless you walk or cycle, according to the latest Quality of Life Survey conducted by the Gauteng City-Region Observatory (GCRO).
The GCRO’s Quality of Life Survey
The GCRO’s Quality of Life Survey is one of the largest social surveys in South Africa. The survey uses random sampling in homes across Gauteng and gathers diverse data enabling comparisons over time to track changes in quality of life across the province. A total of 13 795 respondents took part in the most recent (seventh) Quality of Life Survey.
The survey takes place every two years. It measures the quality of life, socio-economic circumstances, perceptions of service delivery, psycho-social attitudes, and more.
Commuting and transport data
The latest survey results showed interesting data around the use of transport.
The pandemic significantly altered commuting patterns. Pre-pandemic, the purpose of respondents’ most frequent trips was going to work. During the pandemic that changed to commuting to shops. Surprisingly, this is still the most frequent purpose of commuting.
The percentage of respondents saying that the purpose of their most frequent trips is to go to work decreased from 36% in 2017/18 to 32% in 2023/24.
A third of all respondents indicated that they have made use of e-hailing services. Most of these respondents are from higher-income households.
How much are Gauteng residents spending on transport?
Residents in Gauteng are spending between R0 and R9 500 a month on transport, with a median spend of R500.
The respondents who said they primarily drove cars, spent vastly different amounts monthly. The median for car drivers is R2 000 a month.
Markedly, the minibus taxi was noted as the primary means of transport by 38% of respondents with a median spend of these taxi users of R350 a month. This is less than the median monthly spending of the bus and train users. Very few participants rely on buses and trains in the latest survey.
Primary modes of transport
The primary modes of transport for the most frequent trips in Gauteng have stayed constant over the past few years. Minibus taxis and also private vehicles remain Gauteng’s most popular modes of transport for most frequent trips in the province.
There has been a slight increase in people who walk for their most frequent trips. This could possibly be trips to nearby shops.
Following is a chart showing the portion of users of the different modes of transport for the longest part of a trip.
What is the reason for your most frequent commuting?
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