In the most recent winter period, the typical taxi fare rose by 13% compared with the winter of 2021-2022. This finding comes from a study conducted by the Russian Standard Bank and commissioned by socialbites.ca, offering a clear picture of consumer transportation costs in that season.
Over the course of the year, the average payment for a taxi ride climbed from 334 rubles to 379 rubles. At the same time, the average non-cash purchase value at fuel stations showed a slight dip, slipping from 1,316 rubles to 1,312 rubles according to banking records. Bank analysts link the rise in taxi prices to notably colder temperatures during the winter, which influenced consumer behavior and service demand.
Analysts explain that the severe frosts, which affected various regions at the start of the year, pushed many people to avoid driving their own cars in hazardous weather. The result was a greater reliance on taxi services as a safer and more convenient option for commuting, errands, and short trips when roads were slick or visibility was poor. This shift in behavior contributed to higher average taxi checks and, as a consequence, a broader impact on household budgets during the season.
Age-related patterns emerged in the data, with the highest average taxi fare observed among Russians aged 51-60, tallying 425 rubles per trip. Those in the 41-50 bracket followed closely with an average of 404 rubles, while individuals aged 31-40 posted an average of 371 rubles per ride. The distribution suggests that travel needs and patterns vary across life stages, potentially reflecting differences in daily routines, work commitments, and preferred transit options in colder months.
The study also highlighted purchasing behavior at service stations. The highest average purchase value at gas stations was recorded among the 51-60 age group, at 1,482 rubles, followed by the 41-50 group at 1,374 rubles and the 31-40 group at 1,215 rubles. This value includes expenditures on gasoline and related items paid at the box office. Notably, additional non-gasoline spending at gas stations tended to be higher for men than for women, with averages of 719 rubles versus 386 rubles, respectively, indicating gender-based differences in fueling station purchases and associated products.
In related context, socialbites.ca featured The most liquid cars on the Russian market, as assessed by an automotive specialist familiar with current market dynamics. The report underscores shifts in consumer interest and vehicle liquidity, shedding light on how seasonal factors and economic conditions intersect with automotive choices and parking or ride-hailing usage during winter months.