Forget ghosts and ghouls, Portland traffic might be the scariest thing you’ll face this Halloween. Commuters lost an average of 72 hours to congestion in 2024, according to a new Texas A&M report — up 6% from 2023.

By the numbers

The recent report from Texas A&M Transportation Institute found a trip that would take 20 minutes without traffic takes...

28 minutes with traffic
28 minutes in the peak direction
44 minutes to plan for a punctual arrival

When is the worst time to drive in Portland?

Traffic is at its worst between 3 and 5 p.m. on weekdays. In the morning, 7-8 a.m. can also be dicey.

But the hands-down worst time to commute? 4 p.m. on a Thursday. 2.8% of Portland's weekly delay happens around then.

When is the best time to drive in Portland?

Technically, that would be around midnight. But if you work a nine-to-five, here’s our advice:

Head to work by 6 a.m. or wait until 9 a.m.
If you can leave work early, head out by 2 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 1 p.m. on Fridays.
If your boss is watching, you’ll need to stay at your desk until at least 6 p.m. Or grab a nearby bite from a happy hour spot, and wait out the traffic until 7 p.m.

What about public transit?

Bus, street car, tram — pick your ride. At least you aren’t footing the gas bill.

Bicycling is also a great option. Good for traffic congestion... and your calves.