Atlanta Commute Times Reportedly Decreasing, But Locals Remain Skeptical

A new survey from the Atlanta Regional Commission claims commute times have improved, but many drivers are not convinced.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to a recent commute survey from the Atlanta Regional Commission, the average commute time in the Atlanta metro area has decreased by around 5 minutes since 2019. The survey cites increased telework, flexible schedules, and more even distribution of traffic throughout the day as contributing factors. However, many local commuters remain skeptical of these findings, with some saying they still experience significant traffic delays.

Why it matters

Atlanta is known for its notorious traffic congestion, so any improvements to commute times would be welcome news for residents and businesses in the region. However, the disconnect between the survey data and commuters' personal experiences raises questions about the accuracy of the findings and the true state of traffic in the Atlanta metro area.

The details

The Atlanta Regional Commission analyzed over 6,000 survey responses across 20 counties and found that commute times have improved slightly, with the average commute being 5 minutes shorter than in 2019. The commission attributes this to more flexible work schedules and increased telework, which has spread out rush hour traffic throughout the day. However, many commuters remain skeptical, with some saying they still experience significant delays due to ongoing road construction projects.

  • The latest commute survey was conducted in 2026.
  • The previous commute survey was done in 2019.

The players

Atlanta Regional Commission

The regional planning and intergovernmental coordination agency for the 10-county Atlanta metropolitan area.

Hyeon Jin

A commuter who expressed skepticism about the survey findings.

Zoya Day

A commuter who believes traffic is actually slower than the survey indicates.

Casey Sloan

A data analyst with the Atlanta Regional Commission.

Jordynn Goode

A commuter who relies on public transportation and cites long travel times as a major barrier.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Hmmm, hard to believe.”

— Hyeon Jin, Commuter (fox5atlanta.com)

“I think it's way slower. People are getting confused. Lots of road work going on.”

— Zoya Day, Commuter (fox5atlanta.com)

“They don't necessarily feel it.”

— Casey Sloan, Data Analyst, Atlanta Regional Commission (fox5atlanta.com)

“The transit network that we have is a relic of what has been available and what voters have selected over the various referendums that we've had for 50-plus years as a region. It creates challenges supporting those connections across jurisdictions.”

— Johann Weber, Georgia Commute Options Coordinator, Atlanta Regional Commission (fox5atlanta.com)

What’s next

The Atlanta Regional Commission is working to reignite vanpool and carpool programs that have seen reduced investment from companies since the pandemic.

The takeaway

While the survey data suggests some improvement in Atlanta's notorious traffic congestion, the persistent skepticism from local commuters highlights the challenges the region still faces in addressing its transportation issues. Improving public transit connectivity and infrastructure will be crucial to building trust and convincing residents that their commutes are truly getting better.