In the United States, commuting alone by car is the most common way to get to work, and Wyoming is no exception, Wyoming News Now reports.
As of 2023, 72.8% of workers over the age of 16 in Wyoming drove alone to their jobs. A recent analysis by Truck Parking Club, using Census Bureau data, has identified the counties in the state where solo commutes are most prevalent.
Approximately 70% of Americans drive alone to work, marking a steady shift since the COVID-19 pandemic, which temporarily reduced solo commutes due to a surge in remote work. Though rates remain slightly below pre-pandemic levels, driving alone is still the primary mode of commuting for most.
Across the US, states in the central South and Midwest report the highest rates of solo commuting, with Mississippi and Alabama leading the way, where around 80% of workers drive alone. These states tend to have lower remote work adoption and more affordable gas prices, which make driving alone a practical choice.
In contrast, states like New York, Massachusetts, and Oregon have lower drive-alone rates. These regions benefit from denser populations, robust public transportation systems, and higher rates of remote work. Environmental awareness and urban infrastructure also contribute to the popularity of alternative commuting methods such as carpooling, biking, and public transit.
Wyoming’s expansive geography, low population density, and limited public transit infrastructure make driving alone a necessity for many residents. With significant distances between homes and workplaces, alternative transportation modes like biking, walking, or public transit are less feasible in much of the state.
Counties with the highest rates of solo commuting typically reflect these factors. Workers in these areas rely heavily on personal vehicles due to the lack of viable alternatives and the affordability of driving.
High rates of solo commuting come with challenges. They contribute to traffic congestion, physical inactivity, air pollution, and increased risks of vehicle accidents. On average, US commuters spent 42 hours in traffic in 2023, costing them $733 in lost time. These inefficiencies have economic implications, including reduced productivity and supply chain delays.
Wyoming’s drive-alone rates align with national trends but are shaped by the state’s distinct rural and low-density characteristics. While remote work and carpooling opportunities have grown in recent years, driving alone remains the most practical option for most Wyomingites.
