Advice: Keep or ditch my car? (Philadelphia: how much, buy, luxury)

[kyb01]

Originally Posted by Pine to Vine

We eat at home about 4 nights a week, running to RTM and/or various grocery stores about twice each week (MOM's Organic may soon play into the mix).Vegetables and meat/fish are typically fresh each meal. We are younger older people and can carry 1 - 2 bags each without a problem. About once a month we drive to pick up heavy and bulky items, such as laundry detergent and paper towels.

Keep in mind I am retired and have time to shop and cook that I never had when working. My working husband joins me on many of these excursions, however. It all depends on how a person prioritizes their time. b

Don't know, of course, where anyone is with this but one of the major reasons I kept my car much longer than I would have was elder care duties. Having a car made that considerably easier.

[Pilot1]

It is paid off. I'd keep it. If you sell it, then realize hey, I need a car like just about everyone else then you are back to car payments.

[BK_PHL_DEL]

I'd sell it. The insurance payments might be minimal, but it's still money you can keep in your pocket instead. Or use that money towards Uber/car share/food or meal delivery services. Plus, you'd still need to pay to have it inspected annually, a parking permit (I assume it will be parked on a permitted block) and maintenance.

I work in DE but am hunting for a job in Philly so that I wouldn't need a car. If I make the exact same salary with a job in Philly, I'd still end up on top since not having a car would free up ~$800/month between payments, gas, insurance, maintenance. Take out my car payments to more closely match your situation and I'd still free up $400/month.

I have a bike and two feet and the MFL nearby, so that is enough for me. Will I miss driving over to Wegmans in Cherry Hill or parking across from Reading Terminal? Sure, but that's def not worth $800/month.

[Pine to Vine]

If it's paid for, keep it for 6 months or so and see if it's worth the hassle and expense. No reason to rush the decision.

[newmarlig]

Originally Posted by Pine to Vine

If it's a pain for you, of course don't do it. Driving is a pain for me.

Some people use the little fold-up rolling carts to bring groceries home. To date, we haven't seen the need for one, but perhaps when we're older? We'll cross that bridge should it come.

I live in Center City and don't drive either, which is why I suggested Peapod, or Uber/Lyft for major shopping trips.

[AJNEOA]

Re: Shopping

If you try to grocery shop like an American, then walking for groceries is going to be a pain. One large weekly trip to get everything you could ever imagine you'd need in a week's time is better done by car. However, if you live in a neighborhood that has smaller specialty markets like I do (e.g. butcher, fish market, specialty grocer, bakery), you can grab a handful of stuff a few times a week. I think it's a fresher, better way to shop that inspires less waste and more freedom with what you cook (cook what you feel like cooking). That also makes the walk do-able since you won't be carrying a full grocery cart worth of goods.

Disclaimer: I'm not suggesting someone goes to a place like Passyunk's Acme 3 days a week (large parking lot, large store, long checkout lines). I'm referring to a place like Ippolito's Fish Market or Metropolitan Bakery. A place that is quick, easy and enjoyable.

[Muinteoir]

I like the idea of trial by the commitment to keeping my car parked. I think I'll try two full weeks and see how everything feels. For groceries I am going to get myself both a cart and a large basket/crate for the back of my bike (which I've been wanting regardless). It's funny that some mention winter weather as a reason for a car. I actually hate driving around people who can't drive in snow (I'm from upstate NY where you practically drive in snow for 3-4 months straight). I also think it will be nice to be forced to walk outdoors for my half mile walk to the trolley station. I don't mind bundling up and that way I'll get fresh air regardless of weather.

[Muinteoir]

By the way I just moved into a more permanent place in the Powleton Village / Mantua area (near 32nd and Haverford). I don't think it is an ideal car-free grocery area, but I can take a bus to the grocery store in Fairmount or the train to the Aldi on 46th (a bit more walking and Aldi is a horrible shopping experience, but the price is right).

[Gerania]

Originally Posted by Muinteoir

I like the idea of trial by the commitment to keeping my car parked. I think I'll try two full weeks and see how everything feels. For groceries I am going to get myself both a cart and a large basket/crate for the back of my bike (which I've been wanting regardless). It's funny that some mention winter weather as a reason for a car. I actually hate driving around people who can't drive in snow (I'm from upstate NY where you practically drive in snow for 3-4 months straight). I also think it will be nice to be forced to walk outdoors for my half mile walk to the trolley station. I don't mind bundling up and that way I'll get fresh air regardless of weather.

It's not really snow that I meant. I was more thinking the temperature hovering just above freezing and raining when you have a sore throat or a cold. I loathe public transit when I'm sick.

My son's friend broke his foot a month ago. He's supposed to stay off of it as much as possible. He can drive, though. He can go anywhere he can get a parking spot by the door, and preferably has a scooter. He's 30. That sort of thing doesn't happen to just seniors.

I've also found a car very useful for ER trips when you don't quite need an ambulance.

[kyb01]

Originally Posted by Gerania

It's not really snow that I meant. I was more thinking the temperature hovering just above freezing and raining when you have a sore throat or a cold. I loathe public transit when I'm sick.

My son's friend broke his foot a month ago. He's supposed to stay off of it as much as possible. He can drive, though. He can go anywhere he can get a parking spot by the door, and preferably has a scooter. He's 30. That sort of thing doesn't happen to just seniors.

I've also found a car very useful for ER trips when you don't quite need an ambulance.

I certainly had a bunch of ER trips when I was doing elder care so, yes, having my own car was a big help with that.