[cameronh90]

While I disagree with GP about this applying to most cities in the UK, it's certainly the case that most people in inner London (Z1-3) don't own a car. The people who do own cars mostly don't use them for commuting. Kids seem to be the biggest reason people get a car.

Driving in London is expensive and inconvenient. Parking is extortionate, there's the congestion charge, road taxes, fuel duty and insurance. A car is something you get if you're reasonably well off or you need it for work (e.g. you're a tradesman).

Travelcards are expensive too - London is just expensive unfortunately. But that's a Z1-5 travelcard I think you've quoted. There are other ones and IME a lot of very poor people cycle, use the bus pass (£900) or get a Z2-6 (£1800) then walk from there, if indeed they even work in the centre. Also there are discounted rates for the travelcard depending on circumstances.