While the US was a passenger train pioneer in the 19th century, after WWII, railways began to decline. The auto industry was booming, and Americans bought cars and houses in suburbs without rail connections. Highways (as well as aviation) became the focus of infrastructure spending, at the expense of rail.

The primary reasons people avoid trains vary by region, but common deterrents include high ticket prices, inconsistent reliability, and limited infrastructure. In many parts of the United States and the UK, rail travel can often be more expensive than flying or driving, especially when tickets are not booked weeks in advance. Additionally, "last-mile" connectivity remains a significant hurdle; if a traveler arrives at a station and still needs a 30-minute taxi to reach their final destination, the convenience of a car becomes undeniable. In 2026, while high-speed rail projects are expanding globally, many regional lines still suffer from aging tracks that lead to speed restrictions and delays. The lack of a "seat guarantee" on crowded commuter lines and the perceived lack of privacy compared to a personal vehicle also contribute to a preference for cars. For some, the social stigma of public transit or the discomfort of navigating busy, often under-maintained stations further pushes travelers toward more private, door-to-door alternatives.