Isn't that mostly applicable to highway speeds? Does tire noise have much of an effect at city speeds?

Yes. I live in a small city. Along a moderately busy avenue with speeds around 25 mph, it’s hard to carry a conversation. 30 feet down a side street, totally different story.

Yes, it is very noticeable at city speeds. Source: my hears every day I go out.

> the majority of the noise at typical stroad speeds comes from the tires, not the engine

It comes from honking.