Whole-house centralized variable speed heat-pump with zones is actually the most efficient way to heat/cool your home. Also better at circulating air, filtering, dehumidifying, etc.
HVAC companies push multiple mini-splits these days because they're faster to install, and have better margins, even though they're technically not the best solution versus centralized air.
Driving from San Diego to San Francisco (never leaving the state of California) takes about 8 hours, even longer in traffic.
Many people have these long commutes due to work.