Social Networks and Transportation Efficiency: Ethnic Concentration and Carpool Commutes Among Hispanic Workers in the United States

Compared to non-Hispanic whites, Hispanic workers are more likely to carpool, a commuting mode that is more affordable but also more time-consuming than solo driving. Using 2019 five-year American Community Survey data, we present empirical evidence that Hispanic commuters are more likely to carpool in “more Hispanic areas,” and that ethnic concentration is further linked to efficiency: while carpoolers still experience longer commuting times than solo drivers, this additional time cost decreases—across all socioeconomic groups—as the share of local Hispanic residents increases. Policymakers can thus improve commuting efficiency by supporting community-based programs that promote carpooling minority neighborhoods.