New data reveals that Washington, D.C. has surpassed Los Angeles as the metropolitan area with the most severe traffic congestion in the nation. Drivers in the nation’s capital now endure the longest average daily commutes, spending approximately 33.4 minutes stuck in gridlock.
The study, which analyzed traffic patterns across the 50 largest U.S. cities, found that weekday congestion in D.C. lasts nearly six and a half hours—second only to Los Angeles, where delays stretch close to eight hours daily. Over a year, this translates to roughly 71 days wasted in traffic.
While Los Angeles remains notorious for its bumper-to-bumper conditions, D.C.’s rise to the top is partly attributed to the return of federal workers to offices following pandemic-era remote work policies. Despite increased public transit usage compared to 2020 levels, ridership still lags behind pre-pandemic figures, pushing more commuters onto already crowded roads.
Other cities ranking among the worst for traffic include Miami, San Francisco, and Atlanta. Meanwhile, Rochester, Salt Lake City, and Cleveland boast the smoothest commutes, likely due to their lower population density and ample road infrastructure.
Experts note that heavy traffic often signals economic vitality, as thriving job markets attract more residents who rely on personal vehicles. “Congestion is frequently a byproduct of prosperity,” explained one urban planning professor. “When economies grow, so does demand for transportation.”
For Washington-area commuters, the findings come as no surprise. “The traffic here is unbearable,” said one local, who now adjusts his work schedule to avoid peak hours. “It’s just part of life in this city.”
As urban centers continue to expand, the balance between economic growth and efficient transportation remains a pressing challenge. For now, drivers in the capital can take little solace in knowing they’ve officially claimed the title of the nation’s worst commute.
