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Raleigh Driving and Commute Times

Ryan FitzgeraldRyan Fitzgerald
May 29, 2025 8 min read
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Raleigh Driving and Commute Times
Chapters
01
Current Commute Reality in Raleigh 
02
Public Transportation
03
Main Highways for Raleigh Commuters
04
Cost of Transportation
05
Infrastructure Growth 
06
Alternative Transportation Options 

Raleigh Driving and Commute Times

What is the average commute time in Raleigh, NC? Here is what you need to know about commuting in Raleigh and how to get around the city. 

Are you considering a move to Raleigh? Understanding the city's transportation landscape is crucial for choosing the right neighborhood and planning your daily commute. 

As North Carolina's fastest-growing metropolitan area, Raleigh has been working diligently to keep pace with increasing population demands while maintaining reasonable commute times and expanding transportation options.

With a growing population of over 482,295, Raleigh is a booming city with ample job opportunities, diverse housing options, and an affordable cost of living

Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle, along with Durham and Chapel Hill, and is home to leaders in technology, science, and innovation. Many people commute to Research Triangle Park for work every day, and the city has few public transportation options. 

As a result, the majority commute in cars, which causes congestion on almost all the area's highways. Commuters mostly come from the Raleigh suburbs, including Cary, Holly Springs, Apex, Morrisville, and Garner.  

Whether you are commuting for work or school, knowing how long it will take is essential. This guide will cover Raleigh's average driving and commute times and how to best get around in the city.

This is what you need to know about Raleigh's driving and commute times.

1. Current Commute Reality in Raleigh 

Raleigh offers a refreshing change from many major metropolitan areas regarding commute times. Unlike Atlanta, where residents face 39-minute commutes one way, Raleigh maintains more manageable traffic patterns despite steady growth.

The one-way commute in Raleigh takes 23.6 minutes, shorter than the national average of 26.8 minutes. Data shows that the average American commute is getting longer yearly, but commute times vary significantly based on time, mode of transportation, and end location. 

The city's strategic highway system and ongoing infrastructure investments have helped keep commutes reasonable even as the population has expanded rapidly.

Since the pandemic, Raleigh-Cary has had the third-highest number of work-from-home workers, at 24.5%. Most In-person or hybrid workers commute to work by car. 

Rush hour in Raleigh typically occurs during standard times: 7:00-9:00 AM for morning commutes and 4:30-6:30 PM for evening travel. However, the city's multiple highway options often provide alternative routes when primary roads experience congestion.

During rush hour, commute times may be longer than 30 minutes. If you are traveling to or from outside of Raleigh, commute times may range from 45 minutes to an hour. 

Commuters sometimes get stuck in stand-still traffic on major roads like I-440 and Glenwood Avenue when an accident or backup occurs. Raleigh is doing everything possible to update and enlarge the major highways in response to the traffic congestion. 

acorn in the beautiful city of Raleigh, NC downtown area

2. Public Transportation

Although driving is Raleigh's most common mode of transportation, the city offers many public transportation options and walkability downtown. However, there are no train systems like there are in other large cities. 

GoRaleigh

The major Raleigh public transportation system is GoRaleigh, which travels throughout the city. The transit map will help you determine the best route for your needs. 

GoRaleigh features 28 fixed buses throughout Raleigh's downtown and has seven regional/express routes. A single GoRaleigh bus ride costs $1.25. 

RLine

RLine is the next bus system and is an eco-friendly mode of transportation for Raleigh residents. The free bus system can take you to restaurants, venues, museums, hotels, and stores around Raleigh.

This is an excellent option if you live in the city and want an affordable commute. Buses run approximately every 15 minutes. 

GoTriangle

Like GoRaleigh, the Triangle area has GoTriangle, which provides public transportation to Mebane, Hillsborough, Carrboro, Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, and Cary. 

This is a great option for Raleigh commuters, featuring regional bus and shuttle services, paratransit services, ride matching and vanpools, and emergency ride-home programs. 

Prices vary depending on your trip, but you can visit Fares and Passes to find the exact fare price. 

yellow buses driving on the road offering affordable public transportation

3. Main Highways for Raleigh Commuters

Raleigh's highway infrastructure forms a comprehensive network designed to handle both local commuter traffic and long-distance travel: 

Interstate 40 (I-40) 

This main highway serves as the primary east-west corridor, connecting Raleigh to Durham and Chapel Hill and extending across the state. Adding two lanes in each direction has eased traffic between Raleigh and Johnston County, and recent widening projects completed in 2024 significantly improved congestion. 

Interstate 440 (The Beltline) 

Many commuters travel via Interstate 440, which creates an inner loop around Raleigh, connecting different parts of the city. The Raleigh beltline (I-440) and a second outer loop (I-540) help alleviate congestion during high-demand times. This highway is essential for avoiding downtown traffic between different city areas.

Interstate 540/NC 540

This interstate forms the outer loop around the greater Raleigh area. Currently under construction, the proposed work would extend the Triangle Expressway from the N.C. 55 Bypass in Apex to the U.S. 64/U.S. 264 Bypass in Knightdale.

The 540 Outer Loop will circle the greater Raleigh area and is expected to be completed in 2028. When finished, this 70-mile beltway will provide even more traffic relief and improved regional connectivity. 

US Highway 1 and US Highway 64

Many commuters travel along these routes because they provide additional north-south and east-west connectivity and offer alternative routes during peak traffic.

blurry cars on the highway with their headlights on

4. Cost of Transportation

The cost of living in Raleigh is 5% lower than the national average, and transportation is 8% lower. Gas is also more affordable in Raleigh, at an average of $2.899 in Wake County, which benefits commuters who drive. 

  Cost in Raleigh National Cost
Gallon of Gas $2.899 $3.166

Raleigh offers relatively affordable transportation costs compared to larger metropolitan areas. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, the average cost Americans spend annually on transportation is $12,295.

Overall, you should have many transportation options available at a relatively affordable price. You can reduce your transportation costs by utilizing public transportation options or carpooling, which will also help the environment. 

Public Transportation Costs

  • GoRaleigh bus fare: $1.25 per ride
  • Monthly passes and discount programs available
  • Regional transit connections at competitive rates

Driving costs in Raleigh can remain reasonable with competitive gas prices, reasonable parking, multiple free parking options throughout the city, and lower vehicle registration and insurance costs compared to other major metropolitan areas. 

5. Infrastructure Growth 

The Raleigh area is ever-growing, and many of the surrounding cities are some of the fastest-growing cities in North Carolina. Many residents in these cities commute to Raleigh for work, meaning Raleigh has to keep up with the rapid growth to reduce traffic times.

Raleigh was ranked the "hottest" residential real estate market, and the city is doing its best to keep up with the influx of people moving to Raleigh. As more people call Raleigh home, infrastructure investment and development enhance transportation in the Triangle.

The Federal Aviation Administration approved RDU's 25-year master plan, Vision 2040. This plan will focus on improving the airport's runways, security checkpoints, terminals, parking, and rental car facilities. 

The city's comprehensive transportation planning combines highways, public transit, bike lanes, and pedestrian infrastructure. In the long term, public transportation, including buses, transit, and commuter rail, will significantly connect the region. 

Current and Planned Infrastructure Projects 

I-40 Widening: Recent completion of lane additions between Raleigh and Clayton. 

I-540 Completion: Ongoing work to complete the outer loop. This toll road is designed to alleviate congestion and improve commuter travel. 

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Implementation: Multiple corridors under development. This will bring fast, reliable, and frequent transportation services to Wake County. The full service should be available by 2035. 

Intersection Improvements: Targeted upgrades at high-traffic locations. 

Smart Traffic Management: Implementation of advanced traffic signal systems. 

traffic cones and highway construction to improve the road systems

6. Alternative Transportation Options 

Walking and biking are other options for commuting. They not only help reduce traffic and wear and tear on the roadways but also have many benefits for physical and mental health. Raleigh greenway systems and bike lanes support these commuting alternatives. 

Raleigh's Commute Smart program promotes alternative transportation methods and recognizes individuals and organizations making sustainable commuting choices, with awards announced at annual Earth Day celebrations.

man wearing a helmet and backpack biking to work in the city

Methodology

Data was sourced from AAA, Payscale, the U.S. Census Bureau, the North Carolina Department of Commerce, and the United States Department of Transportation to determine the driving and commute times in Raleigh, NC. 

FAQ: Raleigh Driving and Commute Times

Here are the most commonly asked questions about Raleigh driving and commute times.

What is the average commute time to work in North Carolina?

The average commute time across the state varies greatly but averages about 25.1 minutes, a significant increase in recent years.

Does Raleigh have good public transportation?

Raleigh's main public transportation option is the bus system, which only takes you around downtown. If you travel from the suburbs around Raleigh, your only real option is by car. If you are downtown, the R-Line is a great and free option for travel with scheduled shops all around downtown. 

What time is rush hour in North Carolina?

Like most metropolitan areas, the rush hour in North Carolina is between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and between 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

What is the average commute time in Raleigh, NC?

The average commute time in Raleigh is 23.6 minutes. Of course, this depends significantly on the time and area you drive from.

Is Raleigh a good place for jobs?

The Wall Street Journal named Raleigh one of America's top three Hottest Job Markets. The city is also rated the best for working women and third on the STEM job growth index

Raleigh Driving and Commute Times - The Bottom Line

When deciding where to move in the Triangle, it is essential to consider how commute times will vary. No one wants to travel an hour each way to work five days a week. Luckily, Raleigh is improving and widening many major highways to decrease commute times and prepare as the city grows.

The combination of a well-designed highway system, expanding public transportation, and forward-thinking infrastructure planning makes Raleigh an attractive option for those seeking urban amenities without the transportation headaches common in larger metropolitan areas.

Living in Raleigh has many pros and cons, and its manageable commute times make it the perfect destination for homebuyers. Are you ready to explore Raleigh neighborhoods with excellent transportation access? Contact the experts at Raleigh Realty to find your perfect home with the ideal commute. 

WRITTEN BY
Ryan Fitzgerald
Ryan Fitzgerald
Realtor

Ryan Fitzgerald is a top Realtor®, founder and owner of Raleigh Realty, one of the Triangle’s fastest-growing and most innovative real estate brokerages. Driven by a mission to be the best—not the biggest—brokerage in Raleigh, Ryan has built Raleigh Realty into a firm known for its cutting-edge marketing, high-performing agents, and culture rooted in collaboration, growth, and excellence.

Raleigh Realty

Under Ryan’s leadership, Raleigh Realty has become a top boutique brokerage in Raleigh-Durham, serving clients across Wake County and the surrounding areas. Raleigh Realty stands apart for its:

  • Top-Tier Agents – Every Realtor on the team is hand-selected for their skill, professionalism, and client-first approach. Raleigh Realty isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality.

  • Award-Winning Website – RaleighRealty.com is consistently ranked among the best real estate websites with incredible user experience, cutting-edge IDX technology, and hyper-local guides that help buyers and sellers navigate the market.

  • Inbound Lead Generation – With a strong focus on SEO and digital marketing, the brokerage generates a steady flow of organic leads, giving agents the opportunity to grow thriving businesses.

  • Supportive Culture – Ryan emphasizes mentorship, accountability, and autonomy—no micromanaging, just the right systems and tools for agents to succeed.

  • Community Focus – From neighborhood spotlights to relocation guides, Raleigh Realty is committed to being a resource for both buyers and sellers as they make one of life’s biggest decisions.

The firm continues to expand its reach, with the goal of 100 agents and $1 billion in annual sales volume by 2030—all while staying true to its boutique, client-centered values.

Awards & Recognition

Ryan already has notable public credentials and prestige:

  • He has been featured in outlets such as Forbes, Wall Street Journal, U.S. News, among others (as mentioned on the site).

  • Realtor Magazine named him a “Top 30 Under 30” in the country (as noted on his Raleigh Realty page).

  • Raleigh Realty is widely acknowledged in the local real estate community for its digital prowess and thought leadership.

  • The company is consistently ranked among the top real estate firms in Raleigh and is known for having one of the highest-traffic real estate websites in the region.

Community Involvement & Giving Back

Ryan’s leadership extends far beyond the closing table. He has built Raleigh Realty to be a company that actively gives back to the community and invests in making Raleigh a better place to live.

  • The Green Chair Project – Ryan and Raleigh Realty proudly support The Green Chair Project, a local nonprofit that provides essential furnishings and household items to families transitioning out of homelessness, crisis, or disaster. By partnering with this organization, Ryan helps ensure families have the comfort and dignity of a furnished home.

  • Food Donations & Drives – Raleigh Realty regularly organizes and contributes to food donation efforts, partnering with local pantries and organizations to help fight food insecurity across Wake County. These efforts bring agents, clients, and neighbors together to support those in need.

  • Local Events & Client Appreciation – Raleigh Realty hosts family-friendly gatherings such as pumpkin patch outings, coffee + donut socials, and seasonal celebrations designed to strengthen neighborhood bonds.

  • Supporting Schools & Youth Programs – Ryan partners with local schools and youth organizations to provide resources, sponsorships, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that the next generation has access to growth and guidance.

  • Small Business Advocacy – Raleigh Realty proudly highlights and partners with local small businesses, amplifying their visibility and reinforcing Raleigh’s reputation as a vibrant place to live and work.

For Ryan, success is measured not just in sales, but in the lasting relationships and community impact Raleigh Realty leaves behind.

AgentLoft – Powering the Next Generation of Realtors

Ryan is also the visionary behind AgentLoft, a SaaS platform designed to help Realtors nationwide build their brand and generate leads. AgentLoft websites combine IDX technology, SEO expertise, and AI integration to give agents the competitive edge they need.

Personal Mission

As a proud father to his daughter Emma, Ryan’s mission is bigger than business. He’s dedicated to building a brokerage and a platform that create opportunity and stability for families, clients, and agents alike. His approach blends entrepreneurship with empathy—ensuring that Raleigh Realty continues to grow not just in sales volume, but in reputation, trust, and impact.


👉 Whether you’re buying or selling a home, or you’re a Realtor looking for the right brokerage to grow your business, Raleigh Realty—under Ryan Fitzgerald’s leadership—offers the expertise, technology, and community-minded culture to help you succeed.

Chapters
01
Current Commute Reality in Raleigh 
02
Public Transportation
03
Main Highways for Raleigh Commuters
04
Cost of Transportation
05
Infrastructure Growth 
06
Alternative Transportation Options 

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