A fuzzy hybrid approach to investigate commuter satisfaction in Central Europe

• A Fuzzy-hybrid TOPSIS is used to assess commuter satisfaction. • Age, education, occupation, gender, travel distance and time, commuting cost, and income are key satisfaction determinants. • Bus riders are more satisfied than car drivers, while train commuters are least satisfied. • Highest satisfaction is found in commuters with short travel time (≤30 min) and low expenses. • Findings inform strategies to enhance transport infrastructure and promote sustainable transport modes. Commuter satisfaction with their chosen mode of transport significantly affects quality of life, well-being, and the sustainability of commuting practices. This study uses a fuzzy-hybrid TOPSIS approach, applied to data from seven functional urban areas in Central Europe. The method effectively creates a composite indicator for assessing satisfaction levels by considering factors such as socioeconomic conditions, geographical features, and mobility-related data. The research analyzes how satisfaction varies according to these factors. Results indicate that commuter satisfaction levels vary across different factors, including age, education, occupation, gender, travel distance, travel time, commuting cost, and income. Notably, those with shorter commuting times and lower expenses tend to report higher satisfaction, while unemployed and low-income commuters, as well as those using active modes of transport, often express lower satisfaction levels. Interestingly, bus riders find their trip more satisfactory than car drivers, but train commuters are the least satisfied of all. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into commuter satisfaction, informing the development of policies and strategies to improve the transport infrastructure and services and promote the choice of sustainable modes.