France mobility poverty expected to affect 17 million adults by 2026

A new study by Wimoov and Ipsos BVA reveals a significant rise in mobility poverty across France. Projections for 2026 indicate that 17 million adults—approximately 31% to 37% of the adult population—will face mobility precariousness, up from 15 million in 2024 and 13.3 million in 2022.

Mobility precariousness is defined as the inability to travel as desired or required, often due to financial constraints or geographic isolation. The report highlights that mobility issues are no longer just a consequence of economic fragility but are becoming a direct cause of it. Households are increasingly forced to choose between transportation costs and essential needs such as food, energy, and healthcare.

The impact is particularly acute among certain demographics. Approximately 40% of French citizens have renounced at least one daily trip, a figure that rises to 74% among those aged 18-29. Furthermore, 10% of respondents reported having to give up a job or training opportunity in the last five years due to transportation costs or lack of access. This figure reaches 26% among job seekers.