Congestion is rising again across American cities in 2025, and if you’re wondering which urban areas have it the worst, new data from transportation analytics platforms has the answer. The latest traffic index rankings identify the worst traffic cities USA 2025, based on average delays, rush hour congestion, and time lost in traffic per commuter.
Many of the top cities are repeat offenders, but a few surprises have entered the top 10 this year.
How the Rankings Were Calculated?
To determine the most congested roads USA and cities, analysts measured:
-
Average hours lost per driver annually in traffic
-
Rush hour delays (morning and evening)
-
Speed reductions on major routes
-
Daily commuter population
With post-pandemic urbanization rebounding and remote work stabilizing, peak-time traffic is worsening in many metro areas.
The 2025 Top 10 Worst Traffic Cities in the U.S.
Here’s the full list, based on commuter delays and traffic congestion severity in early to mid-2025:
| Rank | City | Avg. Annual Hours Lost | Key Congested Roads |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Los Angeles, CA | 117 hours | I-405, I-10, US-101 |
| 2 | New York City, NY | 110 hours | I-278, FDR Drive, Lincoln Tunnel |
| 3 | Chicago, IL | 95 hours | I-90/I-94, Eisenhower Expressway |
| 4 | San Francisco, CA | 90 hours | US-101, I-80, Bay Bridge |
| 5 | Boston, MA | 86 hours | I-93, Route 128, Storrow Drive |
| 6 | Seattle, WA | 81 hours | I-5, SR-520, I-90 |
| 7 | Atlanta, GA | 77 hours | I-285, I-75/I-85 Connector |
| 8 | Philadelphia, PA | 75 hours | I-95, Schuylkill Expressway |
| 9 | Houston, TX | 72 hours | I-610, I-45, US-59 |
| 10 | Washington, DC | 70 hours | I-495 Beltway, I-66, GW Parkway |
The USA commute landscape has become increasingly time-consuming, especially in cities with poor public transit or sprawling suburbs.
What’s Driving the Congestion?
The top factors behind the worsening commuter delays 2025 include:
-
Population growth in urban areas.
-
Limited infrastructure upgrades relative to vehicle increases.
-
Public transport underuse post-pandemic.
-
More hybrid workers commuting 2–3 days per week.
While some cities have expanded bike lanes and transit networks, the improvements haven’t yet offset overall traffic volume.
Traffic Trends to Watch in Late 2025
-
Toll congestion pricing pilots are expanding (NYC, SF).
-
Smart traffic signal upgrades aim to reduce idle time.
-
EV and carpool incentives are being tested in several metros.
-
AI-powered traffic mapping is improving route recommendations for commuters.
Despite these developments, most urban cores remain heavily congested during peak periods.
FAQs
Which U.S. city has the worst traffic in 2025?
Los Angeles once again ranks #1, with drivers losing an average of 117 hours annually.
Has traffic gotten worse in 2025 compared to 2024?
Yes, due to hybrid work patterns and population growth, congestion has increased in most major metros.
Are there any new cities in the top 10 this year?
Houston and Philadelphia saw significant jumps in ranking due to infrastructure delays and higher traffic volumes.
How can I avoid peak congestion times?
Leave before 7 a.m. or after 10 a.m. for morning commutes, and avoid driving between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. in the evenings.
Click here to know more.