A mobile data collection system with voice capabilities is provided. The mobile data collection system can be a system for automatically or semi-automatically collecting data regarding consumption of a public utility, but can also be a system for collecting other types of data. The system may include a speech synthesis component configured to provide audio output to an operator, the output including audible signals corresponding to prerecorded human speech or artificial human speech. For example, the prerecorded human speech or artificial human speech may include statements for informing an operator about collection of utility data or about a current state of the mobile utility data collection system. The system may also include a voice recognition component configured to process incoming human speech commands. For example, the voice recognition component may be configured for use in generating computer-readable instructions for controlling at least some operations of the system.