Global AveragesGlobal Averages

    Global Average Traffic Congestion

    Last updated: March 11, 2026

    25%

    %

    Global traffic congestion adds approximately 25% extra time to journeys on average. London (37%), Bengaluru (36%), and Dublin (35%) are among the most congested. Traffic congestion costs the global economy an estimated $1 trillion annually.

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    Historical Trend

    Source: TomTom

    Global Average Traffic Congestion by Country

    Country Value (%) ↓Source
    Nigeria40TomTom
    United Kingdom37TomTom
    India36TomTom
    Brazil33TomTom
    France28TomTom
    United States24TomTom
    Germany22TomTom
    Australia21TomTom
    Japan18TomTom

    Why This Average Exists

    Traffic congestion data helps urban planners optimize infrastructure, reduces economic losses from wasted time, and improves air quality through better traffic management.

    Factors That Affect Global Average Traffic Congestion

    • Population density
    • Car ownership
    • Public transit quality
    • Road infrastructure
    • Urban planning
    • Remote work policies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Methodology & Data Sources

    The data presented on this page is compiled from publicly available datasets published by international organizations including the World Bank, World Health Organization (WHO), International Labour Organization (ILO), United Nations, NASA, and national statistical agencies.

    Global averages are calculated using population-weighted or arithmetic means depending on the metric. Country-level data reflects the most recent available figures, typically from 2024–2024. Where gaps exist, the latest available data point is used.

    All figures are subject to revision as source organizations update their datasets. For the most authoritative data, we encourage consulting the original sources linked in the table above.

    Further Reading