Traffic in Calgary
Calgary's transportation landscape in 2024 is dominated by car usage, with a significant portion of the population relying on personal vehicles for their daily commutes.
Despite efforts to promote alternative transportation, cars remain the primary mode of transport, contributing to notable CO2 emissions and traffic inefficiencies.
Average Commute Times
The average commute involves approximately 20.75 minutes of driving and a total travel time of 28.95 minutes.
- Bus - Bus commuters spend about 48 minutes on the bus, with additional time for walking and waiting, totaling over an hour.
- Car - Car users experience an average driving time of 26.92 minutes, making it the most time-efficient mode for longer distances.
- Train - Train commuters spend around 23.11 minutes on the train, with significant time spent walking and waiting.
- Walking - Walking commutes average 17.46 minutes, suitable for shorter distances within the city.
Traffic Breakdown
Traffic Data
Overall average travel
Average when primarily using Bus
Average when primarily using Car
Average when primarily using Train
Average when primarily using Walking
More Information
Seasonal Trends
Winter months often see increased traffic delays due to snow and ice, impacting commute times.
Summer festivals and events can lead to temporary road closures and increased congestion.
Commuter Pain Points
Heavy reliance on cars leads to congestion, especially during rush hours.
Limited public transportation options in certain areas increase commute times for non-drivers.
Best Travel Times
Early mornings before 7 AM and late evenings after 7 PM are the best times to avoid traffic congestion.
Midday travel between 10 AM and 3 PM can also offer smoother commutes.
Event Impacts
Major events at the Calgary Stampede grounds significantly affect traffic, necessitating alternative routes.
Sporting events and concerts at the Saddledome can lead to localized congestion.
Sustainability Efforts
Calgary is investing in expanding its light rail transit system to encourage public transport use.
The city is promoting cycling through the development of dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs.
Ride-Sharing Impact
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have increased mobility options but also contribute to traffic during peak times.
These services offer flexibility for commuters without personal vehicles, especially in less accessible areas.
