The commuting index

Whether it’s cruising through coastal views or cutting through vibrant cityscapes, where you live can make all the difference in how your commute feels, making your daily drive something to look forward to rather than dread.

Using U.S. Census data, we identified the average commute time by city – among other factors – for over 550 locations to determine the places with the most efficient, most affordable, and most scenic commutes. No matter where you drive, having a reliable, flexible option like a SIXT+ car subscription can make all the difference on your daily commute.

1. Kenova, West Virginia

Kenova tops the list of cities with the most efficient commute. With an average commute time of just 6 minutes, Kenovians rarely face any traffic while going to and coming home from work each day. In addition to a short commute time, Kenova boasts a perfect commuter rating, signaling that residents are quite content with their daily commutes. Gas across West Virginia also averages at $3.10 a gallon on average – lower than the national average – and with just one toll road in the entire state, getting to and from work is affordable as well. However, while the commutes are quick, Kenova offers residents the chance to lead a laid-back lifestyle away from big cities.

2. Rutland, Vermont

Moving up north to New England, Rutland ranks second in our ranking. With an average commute time of 14 minutes and a perfect commuter rating, it’s a breeze for Rutland’s workforce to get to their jobs each day. With gas costs coming in at $3.15 a gallon on average, and just three toll roads across the state, Rutlanders typically aren’t breaking the bank commuting. Rutland’s short commute time can be attributed to the city’s compact layout, low congestion, and a wide variety of local employers helping to keep most jobs close to home.

3. Ocean City, Maryland

Showing up on our list once again, ranks as the third city with the most efficient commute. While typically a summer vacation destination, Ocean City locals spend an average of 19 minutes commuting daily – not bad for a place that experiences major seasonal traffic! Despite its popularity as a vacation spot, this seaside escape has a perfect commuter rating, showing that locals enjoy a smooth daily drive. Across Maryland, gas costs about $3.27 a gallon on average, and with 8 toll roads in the state, commuting is a bit more expensive for Marylanders. However, Ocean City’s commute time can be credited to its calm off-season, small-town feel, and strong local economy that bolsters job growth.

4. Malta, Montana

Out west, the small town of Malta ranks fourth with an average commute time of 9 minutes. Though the city has a shorter commute time, the commuter rating is just average, perhaps due to the fact that in some areas, there’s nothing but wide open land surrounding you. Across Montana, gas prices are $3.18 a gallon on average, and there are no toll roads, helping Montanans benefit from low-cost, no-hassle drives that keep their commutes easy.

5. Pleasant View, Utah

Rounding out the top five cities is Pleasant View, with an average commute time of 23 minutes. This city has the longest commute time compared to the top four cities, but considering its proximity to Ogden and Salt Lake City, residents are spending a minimal amount of time commuting. Pleasant View also boasts a perfect commuter rating, showing that locals are happy with their daily commutes. Though gas prices across Utah are higher than the national average, coming in at $3.28 a gallon on average, there’s just one toll road in the state, helping to keep overall commuting costs in check.

Whether you’re seeking a more efficient route, an affordable drive, or a scenic ride, where you live can impact your daily commute. For some, a shorter commute means a chance to ease into the day. For others, affordability helps stretch the monthly budget a bit further. For those lucky enough to pass by rivers, mountains, or the sea – the commute itself becomes something to admire. From the peaceful roads of Kenova to the postcard-worthy drives through Clearwater, an ideal commute is more than just possible, it’s happening every day for residents in cities across the nation.

METHODOLOGY

Using U.S. Census data, we identified 559 U.S. cities’ average commute times to find the cities with the fastest, shortest, and most scenic commutes by analyzing the number of state parks in close proximity, the number of public parks, the number of Instagram hashtags, and commuter satisfaction in each city. We also analyzed average gas and toll prices at a state level to determine our ranking of the U.S. cities with the best commutes. Data is accurate as of April 11, 2025.