No one is denying that many Americans endure long, arduous commutes. But the data does not verify reports that "mega-commutes" are on the rise.
Though a hassle it may be, chances are your commute does not qualify as a "mega-commute." Joe Cortright writes, "A 2013 Census study defined 'mega commuters' as those traveling more than 90 minutes and more than 50 miles each way. They found that while mega commuting grew from about 1.6 percent of all commuters to 2.7 percent between 1970 and 2000, the share of such long commutes was flat to declining from 2000 to 2011."
In fact, more people enjoy short and easy commutes, with the average clocking in around 30 minutes. Some are luckier still. "The 2014 American Community Survey reports that nearly 20 million Americans, about 16 percent of all commuters, have self reported commute times of 0 to 5 minutes."
In the end, many see long commutes as a worthwhile (and often temporary) trade-off for other benefits. "Part of what this should highlight is the important role that personal choice plays in commuting. Most people consciously make choices about where they want to live, where they will look for work, and how long a commute they can endure."
FULL STORY: Super long commutes: a non-big, non-growing, non-problem
Census Data: Renters Have Shorter Commutes
According to an analysis by the data research team at Trulia, renters have shorter commutes in 43 of 50 major metros. But despite there being more renters, commutes are still getting longer.
The Negative Effects of the Nation's Lengthening Commute
The collective amount of time Americans spend commuting is staggering, and it's only growing.
How Transportation Technology Determines the Footprint of Cities
The Marchetti Constant, the willingness of people to travel for about a half an hour to get to and from work, explains the size of cities in history, and the metropolitan areas of today.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
Congressman Proposes Bill to Rename DC Metro “Trump Train”
The Make Autorail Great Again Act would withhold federal funding to the system until the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), rebrands as the Washington Metropolitan Authority for Greater Access (WMAGA).
The Simple Legislative Tool Transforming Vacant Downtowns
In California, Michigan and Georgia, an easy win is bringing dollars — and delight — back to city centers.
The States Losing Rural Delivery Rooms at an Alarming Pace
In some states, as few as 9% of rural hospitals still deliver babies. As a result, rising pre-term births, no adequate pre-term care and "harrowing" close calls are a growing reality.
The Small South Asian Republic Going all in on EVs
Thanks to one simple policy change less than five years ago, 65% of new cars in this Himalayan country are now electric.
DC Backpedals on Bike Lane Protection, Swaps Barriers for Paint
Citing aesthetic concerns, the city is removing the concrete barriers and flexposts that once separated Arizona Avenue cyclists from motor vehicles.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)