Traffic in Bellingham
In 2024, Bellingham, WA, sees a significant reliance on cars, with 75% of commuters choosing this mode of transportation.
Walking is the second most popular mode, accounting for 25% of the commute, reflecting the city's compact and pedestrian-friendly layout.
Average Commute Times
The average commute time in Bellingham is approximately 20.44 minutes, with most of this time spent driving.
- Car - Car commuters spend about 17.42 minutes driving, covering an average distance of 17.10 km.
- Walking - Those who walk spend around 13.75 minutes on foot, with a total commute time of 23.75 minutes, including waiting and other activities.
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 tourists visit Bellingham, leading to longer commute times.
Winter months see a slight decrease in traffic, but adverse weather conditions can still cause delays.
Commuter Pain Points
Limited public transportation options make it challenging for non-drivers to commute efficiently.
Traffic congestion during peak hours leads to increased travel times for car commuters.
Best Travel Times
Commuters can avoid the heaviest traffic by traveling before 7 AM or after 7 PM.
Midday travel between 10 AM and 2 PM typically experiences less congestion.
Event Impacts
Public events, such as festivals and university activities, can significantly impact traffic patterns, causing temporary congestion.
Planning routes around event schedules can help mitigate delays.
Sustainability Efforts
Bellingham is exploring initiatives to expand bike lanes and pedestrian paths to encourage eco-friendly commuting.
The city is also considering incentives for electric vehicle use to reduce carbon emissions.
Ride-Sharing Impact
Ride-sharing services have helped reduce the number of cars on the road, offering a convenient alternative to personal vehicle use.
These services are particularly popular among younger demographics and those without access to a car.
