Americans Making Longer Commutes Again

The average American’s daily, one-way commute to work last year was 26.8 minutes, according to the National Association of Home Builders.  

From 2010 to 2019, work commute times increased steadily from an average of 25.3 minutes to 27.6 minutes. With more Americans working virtually during and following the pandemic, these numbers dropped by over two minutes. The average commute was 26.9 minutes in 2020, dropping even lower to 25.6 minutes in 2021.  

Now, with more people returning to work in person, commute times are once again increasing. In 2022, the average was 26.4, increasing to 26.8 in 2023.  

In Pennsylvania specifically, data shows that average commute times are longest in the eastern, south-central and southwest parts of the state, where times average 25-35 minutes. In northern Pennsylvania, commutes are slightly shorter – on average 20-25 minutes.  

However, although commutes are increasing again, research from the National Association of Realtors® suggests they may not play a significant role in homebuyers’ decisions.  

In 2021, more than half of survey respondents said they actually enjoyed their commutes, and only 21% said they considered their commute a negative part of their day. They cited their commutes as valuable time to prepare for the day and time to unwind before arriving home.  

Additionally, commute times may be increasing because of many Americans’ hybrid work schedules and the compromises they’re willing to make on where they live. NAR says many homebuyers are willing to accept a longer commute in exchange for greater affordability, and distant “zoom towns” have grown in popularity. Those who are working hybrid jobs are often more willing to make longer commutes less frequently if it means living somewhere more affordable or desirable.