What's Happening?
INRIX has released its Global Traffic Scorecard, identifying the top 25 U.S. cities with the worst traffic congestion in 2025. The report reveals that Chicago, Illinois, tops the list, with drivers losing
an average of 112 hours to traffic, costing them $2,063 in lost time. New York City and Philadelphia follow as the second and third most congested cities, respectively. The report indicates that the typical U.S. driver lost 49 hours to traffic congestion in 2025, a six-hour increase from 2024. This congestion resulted in an average cost of $894 per driver, amounting to a total national cost of $85 billion, an 11.3% increase from the previous year. The data was collected from 36 countries and nearly 1,000 cities, showing that 62% of urban areas globally experienced increased congestion.
Why It's Important?
The findings of the INRIX report underscore the significant economic impact of traffic congestion on U.S. cities. With an estimated $85 billion lost due to congestion, the report highlights the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and policy interventions to alleviate traffic issues. The increased congestion not only affects individual drivers financially but also has broader implications for urban planning and economic productivity. Cities like Chicago and New York, which are major economic hubs, face challenges in maintaining efficient transportation systems, which can hinder business operations and quality of life. The report serves as a call to action for policymakers to invest in sustainable transportation solutions to mitigate these economic losses.
What's Next?
As traffic congestion continues to rise, cities may need to explore innovative solutions such as expanding public transportation networks, implementing congestion pricing, and encouraging remote work to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Policymakers might also consider investing in smart traffic management systems and infrastructure upgrades to improve traffic flow. The report's findings could prompt local governments to prioritize transportation projects that enhance mobility and reduce congestion-related costs. Additionally, there may be increased advocacy for federal funding to support these initiatives, given the substantial economic impact highlighted in the report.
