The Most Congested US Cities to Avoid if You Hate Traffic

By Melissa M. • Nov 20, 2024

If you're tired of losing hours in traffic, you're not alone. Some U.S. cities are so gridlocked that drivers spend hours every day stuck in their cars, watching precious time slip away. From coast to coast, here are the worst places to be behind the wheel.

1. New York City, New York

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NYC tops the list, with drivers losing 101 hours to traffic each year, costing the city $9.1 billion. Despite post-pandemic changes, the high density of commuters and tourists keeps congestion at severe levels.

2. Chicago, Illinois

Drivers in Chicago lost 96 hours to traffic conditions in 2023, costing $6.1 billion in lost time. Known for its packed downtown and cultural attractions, the city's congestion ranks it among the worst in the U.S.

3. Los Angeles, California

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The car-centric city of Los Angeles saw drivers lose 89 hours on the road. Though infamous for its sprawling freeways, it still has a ton of gridlock, trailing behind only NYC and Chicago in overall congestion.

4. Boston, Massachusetts

With narrow, historic roads and a dense population, Boston ranks fourth, with 88 hours lost annually to traffic. The city's layout and heavy tourism make it a challenge for daily drivers.

5. Miami, Florida

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Known for rapid growth and a high influx of visitors, Miami drivers lose 70 hours in traffic each year. The city's road infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the booming population.

6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia drivers lose 69 hours in traffic annually. The city's layout and commuting volume lead to significant congestion, affecting both locals and those visiting its historic sites.

7. Washington, D.C.

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With 63 hours lost each year, a high volume of government workers and tourists impacts Washington, D.C.'s traffic. While congestion eased temporarily during the pandemic, it's now rebounding.

8. Houston, Texas

Drivers in Houston lose 62 hours annually due to heavy traffic. Known for its car-dependent layout and rapid growth, the city's infrastructure faces increasing demand.

9. Atlanta, Georgia

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Atlanta ranks ninth, with drivers losing 61 hours each year. The city's sprawling highways struggle to keep up with its growth, leading to long delays during peak hours.

10. Seattle, Washington

Seattle drivers lose 58 hours in traffic annually. Known for its tech industry and narrow, hilly streets, the city's congestion remains high, especially during peak commuting times.

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Traffic is more than just a nuisance in these cities — it's a costly, time-draining nightmare. As urban populations keep booming, drivers in these cities may wonder if they'll ever see an end to their daily grind on the roads.

References: MiscRanked: Worst U.S. Cities For Rush Hour Traffic | U.S. drivers lost 42 hours—a full work week—to traffic in 2023: Congestion 'hinders economic growth,' expert says