Investigating commuters’ satisfaction with public transit: A latent class modeling approach

Abstract

This study explores the factors associated with commute satisfaction of public transit users in the Seoul Metropolitan Area, identifying the critical role of commuters’ attitudes in influencing their commute satisfaction. Using a latent class ordered probit model, the study identifies two latent segments—optimistic multitasker (Class 1) and dissatisfied commuter (Class 2)—assuming that the association between determinants and satisfaction with commute could depend highly on attitudes. A majority of transit commuters (71.8%) belong to Class 1, meaning that most Seoul commuters are satisfied with their commute and use their travel time productively. Moreover, in comparing the two-class profiles, Class 1 commuters tend to be more satisfied with their lifestyle, perceive themselves as healthier, have a positive personality, and are more satisfied with their commute. Such empirical evidence demonstrates the existence of taste heterogeneity in determining commute satisfaction and the role of attitudes in that mechanism.