Understanding Disparities in Activity Participation in California: A Clustering Analysis Approach

This study utilizes data from a survey administered in Fall 2023 to explore activity participation patterns in California. Previous literature underscores the significance of activity participation in meeting an individual’s need for social interactions and contributing to well-being and highlights the substantial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on essential and nonessential activities. While extensive research has examined activity–travel behavior during the pandemic, fewer studies have focused on disparities in activity participation and travel frequencies for discretionary and utilitarian purposes across population segments that differ in socioeconomics and mobility profiles. This study employs a latent class cluster analysis approach to categorize individuals into distinct activity participation groups based on their activity frequency in Fall 2023. Then, it analyzes their characteristics for personal attitudes, sociodemographics, physical and other mobility limitations, and residential environment characteristics. By applying an equity lens centered on mobility limitations and socioeconomic status, this study aims to provide a systematic assessment of heterogeneity in activity participation. The findings reveal significant disparities in activity participation and travel behavior across population groups in California, informing policy development by highlighting transportation challenges faced by disadvantaged communities and individuals with limited resources. The results identify individuals experiencing accessibility barriers and offer guidance for improving transportation options, enhancing active travel infrastructure, and fostering equitable access for disadvantaged groups. The study provides an empirical characterization of activity participation patterns in Fall 2023, offering valuable information for equitable transportation policies.