If you've only traveled in the US, you think public transportation is for poor people. I haven't used all US metros, but even NYC is pretty shabby in comparison to London or Tokyo. Most folks probably also haven't lived in a walkable city (which implies denser, smaller housing).

I don't want to force a lifestyle on anyone, but for me it is glorious just popping on a skytrain or a subway, listening to my music, and watching the world go by. I don't have to buy a car, pay for insurance, get gas every week, change the oil, repair it when it inevitably breaks down or things wear out, thus easily doubling the initial cost, find parking, and wash and clean it. I don't like dealing with different vehicle sizes, pedestrians on their phone, and drivers who think their time is worth my safety.