What Counts as Commuting?

Commuting is how you travel to and from your job. It’s a big part of your day, and it affects your wallet, your health, and your job choices.

How Long Do People Commute in the U.S.?

Let’s look at the numbers on commuting in the United States. Most people spend time traveling to work each day.

As of 2024, the usual commuting time is about 25.6 minutes one way. Before the pandemic, in 2019, it was a bit longer, around 27.6 minutes. So, things are a little faster now for some.

Many Americans have a commute that’s not too long. Over half of workers travel between 10 and 29 minutes each way.

Most people still go to work every day. About 76% of American workers commute daily. But, more people are working from home now. Over 15% work remotely after 2020. Before that, only about 5% did. This shift changes commuting for many.

Long commutes, over an hour each way, are happening less often. In 2021, about 7.7% of workers had these long trips. In 2019, it was nearly 10%.

The government keeps track of commuting numbers. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics looks at travel times, how safe the trips are, and how much it all costs.

How Do People Get to Work?

People use different ways to commute:

• They drive their own car.
• They ride public buses or trains.
• They bike.
• They walk.
• They share rides with others.
• They work from their home.

Driving alone is still the most common way to commute.

Is Commuting Considered Business Mileage?

No, commuting is not considered business mileage.
Business mileage refers to trips taken specifically for work-related purposes—not including your daily commute between home and your regular workplace.

For example, the following do count as business mileage:

• Driving to a client meeting
• Picking up supplies for your business
• Traveling to a house on sale as a realtor
• Visiting another office or work location during your workday

But the drive from home to your first work activity and the drive home from your last work activity—even if it’s not your main office—is still considered commuting and does not qualify as business travel.

Can You Claim Commuting Miles as a Business Expense?

Generally, no.
The IRS does not allow you to deduct commuting expenses between your home and your regular workplace. But there are a few exceptions where commuting-like travel can actually qualify as business mileage: 

✅ Exceptions Where Travel Might Count as Business Mileage:

• Your home is your main workplace: If you work from home and travel to other locations for business, those trips are deductible.
• Travel between job sites: If you work at multiple locations in one day, driving from one site to another can be counted as business mileage (just not the trip to or from home).
• Temporary distant worksite: If you’re sent to a temporary job location outside your usual metropolitan area, that travel can qualify as business mileage.

Even if commuting miles aren’t deductible, if your employer reimburses you for business trips, it’s still smart to track both personal and business mileage. That way, you’ll stay compliant with IRS rules and ensure accurate reporting.

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