I did this in LA for 4 years back when I was in my mid to late 20s. I bicycled, walked, and metroed everywhere. Sadly, this eventually became very difficult due to certain life circumstances, and I admittedly willingly returned to traveling around by wheeled coffin.

That said, getting around LA without a car was an amazing experience and were I a younger man, I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat. I met amazing people, gained a unique perspective and love for the city that will be with me until the day I die, and the health benefits and street smarts I gained are traits I still benefit from.

No car in NYC, no problem. No car in LA is bold.

Renting cars for road trips is definitely the way to go though. Put that wear and tear on somebody else's car, and dont waste the money on a car sized for road tripping that you utilize 1% of the time

Living without a car in NYC is pretty great. That's whole categories of expenses I don't have.

Took the train last night to an event, walked to a nearby bar, walked to get some pizza, took the bus home. Easy-peasy.

Someone in the friend group took a car (Lyft) home, but I can't imagine wanting to spend like $30 to save maybe 20 minutes in that situation.

Now imagine doing that without having in your pocket the knowledge that this is voluntary, your life isn't on the line, and if it fails you can go back to your real life.

Woah the metro connects Long Beach & Santa Monica?

Anyway the worst part about not having a car, inability to haul large items, inability to bring a bunch of stuff with you like change of clothes, snacks, hobby supplies, etc.