Money is not the determining factor. Time is.

Unfortunately, I cannot commute by bike. The geography and layout of LA doesn't allow it for my situation.
I wish I could, but it is not possible.

I have been in cities where it is, and I have used my bike as the main mode of transport and it was amazing.
Loved it, liberating, felt great, and saw more of the people and city than by car.
It was also the fastest, easiest way to go- by a large margin.

Cost of ownership has no influence on my mode of commuting.
People will take the path of least resistance and most practical for the situation. In cities designed for cars, cars are that path.

Things are changing, which is exciting. I hope it continues at an escalating rate.