Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › City traffic
How loud is city traffic?
City traffic measures 80–85 dB, roughly as loud as a gas-powered lawn mower. At 85 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 8 hours a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
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| Decibel level | 80–85 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | Moderate risk — At 85 dB, NIOSH limits exposure to about 8 hours per day |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 8 hours a day |
| Typical setting | city |
Figures sourced to CDC / NIDCD. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How city traffic compares
On the decibel scale, 80–85 dB sits above the 85 dB line where sustained exposure damages hearing. Sounds at a similar level:
- Gas-powered lawn mower 80–85 dB
- Gas-powered leaf blower 80–85 dB
- Alarm clock 80 dB
- Hair dryer 80–90 dB
How loud is city traffic?
City traffic measures 80–85 dB, roughly as loud as a gas-powered lawn mower. At 85 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 8 hours a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
Is city traffic dangerous to hearing?
Yes — at 85 dB, city traffic is loud enough to damage hearing over time. NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 8 hours a day; use hearing protection beyond that.
Measure it yourself
Decibel levels vary with distance and surroundings. Check the real level where you are with the free online decibel meter — no install, nothing recorded — or see the full decibel levels chart.