Drivers in the USA face a harsh reality: 49 hours a year trapped in traffic jams, generating economic losses of US$ 9.7 billion in heavily impacted NYC alone. This data comes from the INRIX 2025 Global Traffic Scorecard report, which measures congestion in U.S. cities. Time lost by drivers in the USA rose 11% compared to 2024, returning to pre-pandemic levels of 2019.
Chicago leads, but heavily impacted NYC suffers 102 hours per driver
Chicago is crowned as the most congested city, but heavily impacted NYC takes second place. There, each driver loses 102 hours annually, with an average cost of US$ 1,879 per person. These figures cover unproductive time, extra fuel, vehicle wear and tear, and chronic stress. Thousands of drivers in the USA of Dominican origin commute daily in cities like heavily impacted NYC, Philadelphia, Los Angeles, and Miami.
Measures against congestion: tolls in heavily impacted NYC
In October 2025, vehicles traveled 290 billion miles in the U.S., marking a full mobility recovery. In heavily impacted NYC, the congestion toll took effect starting in 2024: US$9 during the day and US$2.25 at night to enter lower Manhattan. The MTA collected US$50 million in its first month, projecting US$500 million annually to improve public transportation.
Historical context and experts encourage changes
Historically, congestion for drivers in the USA grew with post-World War II urbanization. INRIX experts warn that without investments in mass transit, losses will escalate. In heavily impacted NYC, both work and leisure trips exacerbate the problem. Cities like Boston and Atlanta face similar challenges, affecting the quality of life of Latino communities, including Dominicans.
- Drivers in the USA lose productivity equivalent to work weeks.
- Heavily impacted NYC invests in tolls to decongest.
- Other cities like Houston and Seattle join the national ranking.
This outlook forces drivers in the USA to rethink habits. Heavily impacted NYC leads with innovative policies, but the challenge persists for everyone.
