The distance between a home and a workplace tells you little about a reliable commute. A useful test starts at the front door and ends at the place you actually need to be, at the hour you need to arrive.
Measure door to door
For public transport, include the walk to the stop or station, a realistic waiting period, connections and the final walk. Check the operator’s current timetable and any service updates. Try the journey on a normal working day if it will be a regular part of your week.
For driving, test the route at your usual departure time. Include time to find parking and reach your destination. If you cycle or walk, check crossings, road conditions, storage and whether the route feels workable in poor weather or after dark.
Test the return trip
A journey that works in the morning may have a less convenient return service or a different traffic pattern. Check both directions, especially if your shifts finish late or you rely on a connection.
Compare cost and resilience
Add up fares, fuel, parking and other recurring travel costs. Consider what you would do when a service is disrupted or your usual option is unavailable. If a single journey is crucial to making an area affordable, build some margin into your estimate.
Use the commute result alongside the neighbourhood shortlist and area comparison, rather than judging a home by its map distance.
Next step: Verify time-sensitive details with the relevant official body, provider or property contact before making a commitment.