Commuting For A Job: When Is It Worth It? How Far, How Long?

By Meghan M. Biro

I always hear people asking about commuting and their job. What is too far? What is too short? Is there a 'too short?' How much will it cost? Gas? Bridge tolls? Parking?

The hard costs of commuting can be calculated with some accuracy. Gasoline prices are hovering around $4 a gallon. Car insurance figures vary widely, so it's more challenging to find a reasonable average, but figure $1,000 per year – or perhaps twice as much if you're under 25 or have had an accident or two. Then there's the cost of buying a car, paying for parking, managing a car loan and maintenance.