One of my low-key goals in life is to someday live without a car. This commute to the city involves 30 minutes of driving, 60 on the train, and 30 of walking. (Each way.) During the height of the pandemic, when there was no traffic in the city, I just drove. It saved me an hour and a half each day. But I couldn't nap. And the train is where I get to read and listen to music. I missed it.
Cars are such a tremendous expense. There's the cost of the car, of course. Then excise taxes each year (can be close to $1000 a year on a new car). Then insurance (another $1500/year). Fuel. Maintenance. (Brakes are a little worn. $1200 please...) Interest charges if you're financing. Registration and inspection fees. License renewal fees.
People see the auto as a symbol of freedom, but it feels like a pretty big swindle to me.
I've come to see it this way, too, although I do think sometimes there are upsides to having a car, especially with the threat to air travel, what with the whole climate change thing et all. Honestly, I think you're one of the people I know who could go without a car, particularly because you don't see stuff like trains as a nuisance, but instead an opportunity ;)