Traffic in Denver
Denver's traffic landscape in 2024 is dominated by car usage, with over 81% of commuters relying on personal vehicles.
Despite the high car dependency, efforts to promote walking and public transport are evident, with walking accounting for over 6% of commutes.
Average Commute Times
The average commute involves approximately 31.8 minutes of driving and a total travel time of 35.9 minutes.
- Bus - Bus commuters spend about 24.7 minutes on the bus, with additional waiting and walking time.
- Car - Car commuters drive for about 35.7 minutes, covering a distance of 28.4 km.
- Train - Train commuters spend around 27 minutes on the train, with additional time for waiting and walking.
- Walking - Walking commutes average 20 minutes, covering nearly 8 km.
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 see increased traffic delays due to snow and icy conditions.
Summer festivals and events can lead to temporary spikes in traffic congestion.
Commuter Pain Points
High car dependency leads to frequent traffic jams, especially during rush hours.
Limited public transport options can make commuting challenging for non-drivers.
Best Travel Times
Early mornings before 7 AM and late evenings after 7 PM are the best times to avoid traffic.
Midday travel is generally smoother compared to peak rush hours.
Event Impacts
Major events at the Denver Convention Center often result in increased downtown traffic.
Sporting events at Coors Field and Empower Field can cause localized congestion.
Sustainability Efforts
Denver is investing in bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to encourage eco-friendly commuting.
Public campaigns are underway to promote carpooling and the use of public transport.
Ride-Sharing Impact
Ride-sharing services have reduced the need for personal car ownership among younger residents.
These services contribute to traffic but also offer flexible commuting options.
