What’s the Impact of Your Commute?

By Penny Munoz

If you’re one of Toronto’s average commuters, Statistics Canada data reveals that you’re spending approximately 32 minutes in the car, every day. That’s seven minutes over the national standard! For those who use the Gardiner or the DVP on a daily basis, the commute can be twice as long (especially in the rain or snow), ranking as the longest commute in Canada’s big cities.

Maybe it’s time to move closer to work. Before you pack up all your valuables and head for the city, there’s a lot to consider. Firstly, is it worth it? This is a question you’ll have to answer yourself, but this helpful calculator could save you some time.

By simply plugging in relevant information about your commute, the calculator will reveal shocking truths about your daily drive. For example, the average commuter, driving in a midsize car, paying approximately $1.25 for gasoline will spend $1706.10 a year on just gas, not including parking costs! Not surprised? Well, according to the calculations, this commuter will also spend an average of 11 days a year travelling to and from work!

WARNING: The results may be nauseating for environmentally conscious participants. The calculator will also calculate your greenhouse gas emissions for the year in kilograms...and it’s even worse than what you’re spending on gas.

If you’re sitting there, mouth agape, staring at the computer screen in disbelief, it’s probably time to start thinking about getting a place downtown. With beautiful condominium buildings springing up all over Toronto, there is plenty to consider...like how to spend those extra 11 days, or where to go on vacation with that spare $1700. If you’re still unsure, don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of time to think it over on your way to and back from work!