Commuting in Central Texas is getting more expensive—and more stressful.

Gas prices have climbed sharply in recent weeks, and with ongoing volatility, many drivers are feeling the strain. At the same time, congestion continues to worsen. According to INRIX, Austin-area commuters lost 46 hours to traffic last year, an 18% increase from the year before.

New data from Movability’s 2025 Central Texas Commuter Survey shows that employees aren’t just feeling the pressure—they’re ready for change.

While driving alone is still the most common way to get to work, commuters are ready to embrace other modes that reduce congestion and the costs of commuting. The share of solo drivers has dropped below pre-pandemic levels, and 68% of those surveyed said it’s important for employers and schools to offer commute support like transit benefits, carpool programs, or biking incentives. Yet 92% report that their workplace or school doesn’t currently offer these options.

That disconnect represents a major opportunity.

Employers who invest in commute benefits often see real returns—from improved recruitment and retention to reduced parking demand and stronger employee wellbeing. Programs like Ridepanda, an e-bike and scooter subscription platform for employers, report that when employees are supported they are open to changing how they commute.

“When employers offer practical options like bike, carpool, or transit benefits, people use them,” says Chinmay Malaviya, CEO of Ridepanda. “That not only helps employees manage rising costs and stress, it also helps reduce congestion across the entire region.”

With major infrastructure construction projects like the I-35 reconstruction and Project Connect underway, disruptions are expected to continue for years. Supporting flexible, affordable commute options isn’t just a perk—it’s becoming a necessity.

Looking for Solutions?

Movability works with employers across Central Texas to build customized commute programs that connect employees to options like carpooling, transit, biking, and flexible schedules.

The takeaway is clear: employees are open to changing how they commute. With the right support, those changes can benefit not just individuals but the entire region.

The full 2025 Central Texas Commuter Survey is available at movabilitytx.org/movability-research. To learn more about employer membership and commute benefit programs, visit movabilitytx.org