Road development in Nigeria and other developing countries often stimulates linear settlement growth due to enhanced accessibility and economic potential. However, these communities typically violate road right-of-way (ROW) regulations, particularly near highways, resulting in prolonged exposure to traffic noise for inhabitants, potentially endangering their health. This study evaluates traffic noise levels along the 72-km Zaria-Kaduna Highway in Nigeria to World Health Organization (WHO) regulations and assesses inhabitants’ views of the noise's influence on health. Using SEW 2310 Noise Level Meters, vehicular noise measurements were collected in three settlements at 15, 30, and 45 m from the highway median, representing the ROW. Additionally, a questionnaire was administered on the perception of noise disturbances on encroached highway setbacks. The study found that the average minimum traffic noise at a 45-m ROW surpasses the WHO's moderate noise level guideline. Furthermore, noise levels at 15 and 30 m from the median are approximately 90 and 70 decibels, respectively, which WHO classifies as detrimental to health. Interestingly, people reported comparatively low levels of irritation from high traffic noise. Consequently, such high traffic noise levels imply that residents living in the highway setbacks are highly and unknowingly vulnerable to the long-term health consequences of prolonged exposure to above-normal noise levels, among other traffic-related externalities. Thus, it is recommended that the government enforce restrictions to prohibit communities from encroaching on road setbacks and educate the dwellers on the health risks associated with exposure to high levels of traffic noise.