How Ukrainians Changed Car Travel Due to Expensive Fuel: Survey Results

The rise in fuel prices has changed the habits of many Ukrainian drivers: almost half now use their cars only when necessary. Meanwhile, in the western regions, people continue to drive as before more often than in other regions. This is evidenced by the results of a survey conducted from September 25 to October 1, 2026, against the backdrop of changes in fuel prices in Ukraine. The data was published by Bukmedia.

How the Rise in Fuel Prices Changed Ukrainians' Trips in 2026

In total, 47.5% of respondents reduced their car trips. Another 13% nearly or completely gave up their cars, while 15% partially switched to public transport, bicycles, or scooters, or began walking more.

Drivers from the western regions changed their habits the least: 29% continue to drive as they previously did. This is the highest indicator among regions; on average across Ukraine, 19.5% of car owners responded this way. 41% of westerners have reduced their trips.

In the East, 69% of drivers gave up unnecessary trips - the largest percentage among the regions. In the South, people often completely abandoned their cars: 20% of respondents answered this way. In Kyiv, the transition to alternative transport was most noticeable - 22%.

Some drivers choose between their own cars and public transport based on expenses. In one of the previous materials, Inkorr compared how much it costs to drive a car versus using transport in Kyiv.

How Income, Age, and Place of Residence Affect Drivers' Choices

The most significant differences in responses are noticeable depending on income. Among people for whom up to 10,000 UAH is allocated per adult in their families, 18% have given up their cars. In the group with an income of over 40,000 UAH, only 6% responded this way. Almost 39% of the wealthiest continue to drive without restrictions.

In villages, 27% of respondents use cars in the usual mode, while in cities - 15–16%. At the same time, 52% of rural residents have given up unnecessary trips. Only 6% of villagers have partially switched to other transport compared to 19–20% of urban dwellers; among respondents from villages, there were no electric car owners.

Men drive as before more often than women: 25% versus 14%. Young people aged 18–29 restrict themselves the least - a third continue to use their cars as before. People aged 55 and older save the most: 57% of them have started driving less frequently.

The survey was conducted online among 1,200 adult Ukrainians from all regions, except the temporarily occupied territories. A car is available in 44% of respondents' households. Those who continue to drive should also consider the way they refuel: Inkorr explained how drivers overpay for fuel.