Daily commuting can spur significant financial, environmental and mechanical costs on vehicles and their owners, with impacts that extend beyond fuel use, according to transportation and energy experts.
In the U.S., the average driver travels more than 13,000 miles annually, much of it tied to commuting, according to the Federal Highway Administration. Stop-and-go traffic — common during rush hour — accelerates wear on brakes, tires and transmissions, all of which increases maintenance frequency and costs.
The average cost of owning and operating a new vehicle is now more than $12,000 per year, with maintenance and repairs rising faster for high-mileage drivers, AAA reports.
Commuting also reduces fuel efficiency. Idling, rapid acceleration and short trips prevent engines from reaching optimal operating temperatures, lowering miles per gallon and increasing fuel consumption, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This inefficiency contributes to higher emissions. Transportation accounts for about 28% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, making it the largest source, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Beyond cost and emissions, commuting can shorten a vehicle's lifespan. Frequent cold starts and urban driving conditions place more strain on engines compared with steady highway driving, leading to earlier component failure.
Insurance costs may also rise for drivers with longer commutes due to increased exposure to accidents.
The slideshow above illustrates the U.S. with the worst commutes, according to MoneyGeek.com.
See also: 10 Best cities for commuters in 2026
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