Public Transport Use Declines in Israel Amid Road Congestion

A recent survey by Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics reveals a significant decline in public transportation usage, particularly buses, over the past decade. The 2025 survey, which polled 6,452 individuals aged 20 and above, found that only 50% of Israelis used buses in the last year, a drop from 57% a decade prior. While 73% of young adults aged 20-24 still use buses, overall daily or near-daily bus ridership stands at just 15%.

Public satisfaction with bus services is mixed. While 52% view bus operations positively, only 31% are satisfied with the frequency of intercity bus routes, a figure lower than ten years ago. Bnei Brak reported the highest satisfaction with intercity bus frequency at 50%, compared to 29% in Tel Aviv-Yafo. However, 82% of bus users are satisfied with the proximity of bus stops to their homes, with the Tel Aviv district showing the highest satisfaction at 89%.

The light rail in Jerusalem is more utilized than in Tel Aviv, serving the needs of 50% of Jerusalem residents compared to 28% in Tel Aviv. Nearly half of Tel Aviv residents, 47%, do not use the light rail at all. In contrast, Israel Railways usage has increased, with 44% of adults using it in the past year, up from 2015 figures. Satisfaction with train services is high, with 80% pleased with frequency, 71% with station locations, and 92% with carriage maintenance.

Despite efforts to promote public transit, private vehicles remain the dominant mode of commuting, with 62% of employed individuals using cars, motorcycles, or commercial vehicles. Public transport commuting has fallen from approximately 20% in 2015 to about 16% in 2025. Online public transport services also show limited reach, with only half of the public finding them adequate, and 62% of those aged 65 and over reporting they are irrelevant or unfamiliar.