Traffic in Wichita
In 2024, Wichita's transportation landscape is dominated by car usage, with a significant majority of commuters relying on personal vehicles.
Despite the high car dependency, there is a small but notable percentage of residents who choose to walk or bike, contributing to the city's sustainability efforts.
Average Commute Times
The average commute time across all modes is approximately 23 minutes, with driving taking the bulk of this time.
- Car - For car users, the average driving time is about 20.4 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 19.4 km.
- Walking - Walking commuters spend around 14 minutes on their journey, typically covering a distance of 2 km.
Traffic Breakdown
Traffic Data
Overall average travel
Average when primarily using Car
Average when primarily using Walking
More Information
Seasonal Trends
Traffic tends to increase during the summer months as more residents travel for leisure.
Winter months see a slight decrease in traffic due to adverse weather conditions affecting travel.
Commuter Pain Points
High dependency on cars leads to congestion during peak hours.
Limited public transportation options restrict commuting flexibility.
Best Travel Times
Early mornings before 7 AM and late evenings after 7 PM are the best times to avoid traffic congestion.
Midday travel is generally smoother, with less traffic on the roads.
Event Impacts
Public events in downtown Wichita can significantly increase traffic congestion, especially during weekends.
Sporting events and festivals often lead to temporary road closures and detours.
Sustainability Efforts
Wichita is exploring the expansion of bike lanes and pedestrian paths to encourage non-motorized transport.
The city is also considering incentives for carpooling and the use of electric vehicles.
Ride-Sharing Impact
Ride-sharing services have helped reduce the number of cars on the road, particularly during peak hours.
These services provide a flexible alternative to traditional public transport, especially in areas with limited bus routes.
