Outside of the bedroom, the most common place for adults in the U.S. to have sex is the car.
Why Cars Are America's Favorite Non-Bedroom Love Nest
If you've ever wondered whether you're the only one who's gotten frisky in a Ford or passionate in a Prius, you're definitely not alone. According to a survey of over 1,000 Americans, 84% of people have engaged in some form of sexual activity in a vehicle. When it comes to locations outside the bedroom, cars consistently rank as one of the top three choices—and often take the number one spot.
Multiple studies back this up. NBC News reported that 3-in-5 Americans have had sex in a car, while a Midwestern university study found that nearly 60% of college-aged adults have done the deed in a parked vehicle. Compare that to other popular locations like parks (26%), beaches (13%), or public bathrooms (5%), and it's clear that cars are America's go-to alternative to the bedroom.
Why Cars Beat Out Other Locations
So what makes cars so appealing for intimate encounters? Privacy meets opportunity. Unlike a beach where sand gets everywhere or a public bathroom that's just... gross, cars offer a semi-private space that's already familiar and accessible. You don't need to plan a special trip—your vehicle is already with you.
Cars also provide a controlled environment. You can:
- Lock the doors for privacy
- Control the temperature and music
- Choose your location (parking lots, scenic overlooks, or country roads)
- Leave quickly if needed
The survey data reveals that parking lots were the most popular spot, with over 56% of car-sex enthusiasts choosing them, while nearly 30% preferred a scenic overlook for their vehicular romance.
The Backseat Is Still King
Despite decades of automotive innovation, the back seat remains the preferred location within the vehicle. Most people reported being with a serious romantic partner in a standard car's back seat, typically parked somewhere in the country. The most common activities were penetrative sex and genital touching—though the cramped quarters certainly require some creativity.
Interestingly, 77% of Americans have fantasized about sex in motor vehicles, suggesting that cars occupy a special place in our collective sexual imagination. From teenage fumbling to adult spontaneity, cars represent freedom, mobility, and just enough privacy to make things interesting.
A Cultural Phenomenon
Car sex isn't just popular—it's practically a rite of passage. The statistics suggest that if you've only had sex in the bedroom, you're actually in the minority. This phenomenon appears to be particularly American: while about half of British drivers have had car sex, American rates sit between 60-84% depending on the survey.
Whether it's the nostalgia of teenage years, the thrill of semi-public sex, or simply the convenience of having a private space on wheels, cars have earned their reputation as America's most popular non-bedroom location. Just remember to park somewhere legal—because while car sex might be common, public indecency charges are considerably less fun.