[CaptainZapp]

I felt enormously liberated after giving up my car.

Two caveats: I live in a city with fantastic public transport. I would not be any faster at work by car, probably slower on most days.

I'm a member of a car sharing cooperative (something like ZipCar, but on a non-profit basis). If I do need a car I have a dozen (literally) at my disposal within 5 minute walking distance.

The range is from a Smart to a Mercedes transporter. And I use this option about 3-4 times a year.

Not owning a car saves me 5-6k (USD) a year. And this includes my yearly public transport pass, car hires and even longer term rental and leaves a few hundred $ for cab rides.

If you can do it it's extremely liberating and leaves a lot of cash on the table for more useful things. Like nice vacations.

[randomdata]

On the other hand, owning car enables me to live in a lower cost of living area. Based on some online cost of living calculators, it would cost $15-20,000 more per year to live in a city that provides the amenities that you utilize, which, even with the $5-6,000 you quoted to own a car, is still a net win for me.

Though I definitely see the appeal of not owning a car at all.