Indicator 19
Description: This indicator measures the average commuting length (distance) and duration (time) across all modes of transportation for residents of the Region by census year. This represents a revision in 2023 to expand the scope from duration only to include length as well.
Data Source: Statistics Canada
Updated / Frequency: 2022 / Every 5 years
Policy Area: Transportation Systems
Purpose: To enhance the competitiveness of the Region through efficient movement of people, goods, and services. Combining commuting length and duration provides a more comprehensive understanding of regional transportation effectiveness. Lower commuting times and distances offer numerous benefits, including improved well-being, productivity, environmental sustainability, and reduced congestion.
Current Trends: Since the revision, the focus has shifted to tracking both commuting length and duration. The average commute duration has decreased by over 7% from 2016 to 2021, currently standing at 25 minutes. However, changes in commuting length are still being assessed. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered commuting patterns, particularly affecting public transit usage.
