Most drivers in Toledo spend about 20 minutes commuting to work each day. While residents have no major complaints about traffic, when over 13,000 extra drivers head into the city for work each day, it’s worth using some caution on the roads.
As a major trade center for the Midwest, Toledo is a hub positioned between New York City
and Chicago
. Known as Glass City for its heavy glass manufacturing dating back to the 1880s, Toledo also has a growing art community. This Ohio
city has worked hard to revitalize itself by cultivating a thriving entertainment district, too. How does this all pan out for Toledo traffic? We've put together this guide on everything you need to know about navigating Toledo's streets.
RECOMMENDEDNo spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms · No fees, ever
How bad is Toledo traffic?
Compared to many other cities, residents in Toledo don’t have far to go or face many traffic jams during rush hour. But like any city, it’s good to be careful on major thoroughfares like I-475 or I-75.
Residents note that potholes can be an issue in Toledo—winters are harsh here, after all, so the roads take a beating. On top of that, you might experience occasional trouble parking downtown or heading out of the city toward Detroit
. But on the whole, there aren’t many complaints about Toledo traffic! What causes traffic in Toledo?
Like any midsize city, Toledo can see congestion from time to time. This can be caused by various factors, including population size, infrastructure, and residents' driving habits. Here are a few of the reasons Toledo can get congested.
Population size
Toledo has the fourth-largest population in Ohio and the 79th largest in America. Of its 270,871 people, an additional 5% travel to the city to work each day. This influx of drivers on the road can cause congestion—and in turn, accidents.
Major chokepoints
Three major interstate highways run through Toledo: I-75, I-80, and I-90. The Ohio Turnpike travels east to west on I-80 and I-90, connecting Toledo to Chicago and Cleveland
. As such, it’s ripe for traffic congestion. There are two auxiliary interstates, as well: Interstates 475 and 280. On I-280, you can find the Veterans’ Glass City Skyway, a 400-foot-tall bridge that lights up the Toledo skyline. The other major bridge to look out for is the Anthony Wayne Bridge. This suspended structure is known to locals as the High-Level Bridge and crosses the Maumee River. Both can get backed up on occasion.
Driving habits
While Toledo is one of the largest cities in Ohio, it is not very dense at only 3,383 people per square mile. As opposed to living close to work, many drivers commute across the city, spending about 20 minutes driving to work each day. The number of commuters in a city can increase congestion and accidents.
RECOMMENDEDNo spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms · No fees, ever
How to navigate Toledo traffic like a pro
Heavy traffic is not only super frustrating, but it can also lead to increased rates of car accidents. You are most likely to get into a collision in Toledo on weekends, evenings, and clear days.
Unfortunately, even a minor accident can cause serious disruptions to your life, both physically and financially. To avoid this fate, here are a few tips to help you navigate Toledo traffic like a pro:
Avoid rush hour. Steer clear of driving between 6:30 and 8:30 am. Luckily, it’s unusual to commute longer than 25 minutes in Toledo, so regardless of when you leave for work, you won’t be stuck in traffic for too long.
Use back roads when possible. It may seem like taking I-75 or the Ohio Turnpike will be the fastest route to work, but often, opting for a backroad route can save you time.
Try using a traffic app. A traffic app can give you real-time updates on accidents, construction, and other changes in traffic patterns.
Stay focused. One of the best ways to stay safe and get through a nasty traffic jam is by staying focused. You can do this by avoiding distractions like food, loud music or podcasts, or your cell phone. And of course, leave lots of distance between you and the car in front of you!
Prepare for Toledo traffic by updating your car insurance
Carrying a robust car insurance policy is the best way to stay safe on the road in Toledo. Go to Jerry
to find great insurance at a great price. Jerry is a personal insurance broker that lives in your pocket. But don’t worry about buying tiny office furniture, Jerry is an app. Once you download Jerry, just answer a handful of questions that will take you roughly 45 seconds to complete and you’ll immediately get car insurance quotes for coverage similar to your current plan.
Jerry customers save an average of $800+ a year!
“I signed up for a new policy with Jerry’s
help. I ended up saving $236 a month after my switch. Thank you, Jerry!” —Adelaide C.
RECOMMENDEDThis app is great, but the customer service is even better! Not to mention convenient! My husband and I got the lowest rate (much lower than the rates I was finding online through my own searches), quickly, and pretty much all through text message! Thank you so much for a hassle free experience👍
FAQs