Public Transport Use Declines in Israel Amid Road Congestion
Translated & summarized from Srugim by baba
A new survey shows a decade-long decline in Israeli public transport use, especially buses, with private cars remaining the preferred commuting method. While train satisfaction is high, bus frequency and light rail usage lag in key cities.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Half of Israelis over 20 did not use buses last year.
- Bus usage has declined over the past decade.
- Private cars are the primary commute method.
- Train ridership and satisfaction have increased.
- Light rail use varies significantly by city.
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.
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