America’s First Cars: A Survey

There’s something undeniably special about your first car. It’s not just a vehicle; it’s a rite of passage, a symbol of freedom, and for many, the first significant step into adulthood. 

At Assurance IQ, we recognize the profound significance of the first car experience. With this in mind, we conducted a nationwide survey to delve into the intricacies of Americans’ first car choices. Our study offers a panoramic view of the choices, preferences, and trends that have shaped the first-car experience across the U.S. 

Whether you’re reminiscing about your own first car or embarking on this milestone yourself, our survey findings offer valuable insights into the automotive culture in the United States.

The Most Common First Car Brands Across the States

We conducted a nationwide survey, asking individuals from every state to share the make of their first car, revealing the most favored first car choices across America. Ford, Chevrolet, Honda, and Toyota rose to the top, highlighting not only the preferred first cars but also offering a snapshot of the rich and varied car culture that spans from coast to coast.

Ford claims dominance in 19 states, securing its status as America’s preferred first car. Its stronghold stretches from Alabama to Washington, with a particularly strong following in the heartland of the Midwest. 

Chevrolet closely trails, taking the lead in 17 states. Its influence reaches far and wide, from Florida to New York, earning the loyalty of drivers in states like Kentucky, Louisiana, and Pennsylvania with broad appeal.

Not to be outdone, Honda and Toyota each carve out their own niches, leading the pack in 4 states apiece. Honda resonates with drivers in Illinois, Nevada, Utah, and Virginia. Toyota emerges as the top choice in eco-conscious states like California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.

Our survey also captured additional insights into first-car experiences across various states:

• In California, 26% of respondents enjoyed the luxury of a brand-new first car, the highest percentage among all states surveyed.
• 16% of Californians have held onto their first car, reflecting a strong attachment to their initial automotive companion.
• In Nebraska, 18% of people transitioned from their first car in less than a year, while over 10% of Hawaiians have cherished theirs for more than a decade.
• Nebraska also revealed some discontent, with 32% of respondents not fond of their first car. Conversely, Louisiana boasted a 94% satisfaction rate, the highest across the states.
• The majority in 32 states received their first car as a gift, highlighting the tradition of passing down vehicles within families.
• The average cost of a first car nationally stands at $7,147, with Florida’s average soaring to $14,580, and Maine’s at a modest $2,984, illustrating the wide economic spectrum of first car purchases.

1 in 2 Americans Sported a Sedan as Their First Ride

A significant 51% of Americans had a sedan as their first car, showcasing the enduring appeal of this versatile vehicle type. When it comes to brands, Ford leads the pack as the preferred first car for 22% of Americans.

However, 21% of Gen Z drivers named Toyota as their first car brand of choice. This marks a noticeable shift from older generations, where Ford reigned supreme, capturing 20% of Millennials, 26% of Gen X, and 36% of Baby Boomers.

In addition, there are different preferences for men and women, with Ford being the top choice for females (23%) and Chevrolet winning over males (22%). 

A staggering 88% of Americans ventured into car ownership with a used vehicle, a testament to the practical and economic considerations that often accompany the purchase of a first car. The majority of Americans (47%) transition from their first car within one to three years.

While most cherish their first car memories, 12% of individuals didn’t share this sentiment, expressing dissatisfaction with their inaugural vehicles. Interestingly, 43% received their first car as a gift, reflecting the tradition of passing down vehicles within families, especially among younger generations. Gen Z and Millennials are more likely to have received their first car as a gift, in contrast to Gen X and Baby Boomers, who were more inclined to have purchased their first car themselves.

Highlighting the economic shifts over generations, the cost of a first car for Gen Z is nearly four times higher than it was for Baby Boomers, with average prices at $11,000 for Gen Z and $3,000 for Baby Boomers. This significant increase reflects the changing financial landscape and the evolving features and technology of modern vehicles.

When considering their first car, half of Americans (52%) cited price as the most crucial factor, emphasizing the practical approach many take when entering the world of car ownership.

It’s important to consider how the choice of car make and model can impact auto insurance rates, especially for new drivers, who generally face higher rates. Factors such as the vehicle’s safety features, repair costs, and theft rates are all taken into account by insurers, potentially making a practical used sedan more economical to insure than a brand new high-performance sports car.

Closing Thoughts

As we conclude our nationwide exploration into the realm of first cars, we’re reminded of the profound impact these vehicles have on our lives. They’re not just modes of transportation; they represent our first taste of independence, a tangible connection to our youth, and for many, a cherished memory that lasts a lifetime.

Assurance IQ understands how your first car can leave a lasting imprint on your life. Whether you’re strolling down memory lane or just getting the keys to your very first ride, our findings shed light on this significant milestone. Assurance IQ simplifies auto insurance so you can focus on what matters: keeping your beloved ride safe and sound. It’s important to remember that the make and model of your first car can also play a crucial role in determining your insurance rates, emphasizing the need for thoughtful consideration in your selection.

Methodology

To delve into the fabric of America’s first car choices, we conducted a comprehensive survey of 2,224 Americans spanning 42 states over a two-week period in March. This survey was designed to uncover the layers of preferences, experiences, and trends that define the inaugural car ownership journey across the nation. 

By analyzing this data, we were able to sketch a comprehensive portrait of the first car landscape in the U.S., from the most beloved car brands to the nuanced preferences that vary from state to state and generation to generation. This methodology not only provided a snapshot of current trends but also offered insights into the changing dynamics of car ownership in America.