These states rank as the best, worst places to drive in 2026: Poll

With the average American driver losing nearly $900 and 49 hours a year to traffic, a new WalletHub study highlights which states offer the best—and worst—conditions for getting from point A to point B.

Traffic congestion costs Americans time, money and patience, with the average driver losing $894 and 49 hours in 2025 alone. The U.S. is home to many of the world’s worst traffic-choked cities, and while its roads are generally safe, they rank just 17th globally for quality. 

Because driving conditions vary widely by state, WalletHub analyzed all 50 states across 31 factors—from gas prices and congestion to road quality—to determine where drivers have the best overall experience.

Methodology:

WalletHub evaluated driving conditions in all 50 states by analyzing four major factors: cost of ownership and maintenance, traffic and infrastructure, safety, and access to vehicles and maintenance. 

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The analysis used 31 weighted metrics, each scored on a 100-point scale, to calculate an overall score for each state and rank them from best to worst for drivers.

What they're saying:

"Owning a car can really squeeze your wallet if you’re not in the right location. On top of having pricey gas, maintenance and insurance expenses, some states can hurt you even more financially with excessive traffic congestion, which wastes both your fuel and your productivity," WalletHub Analyst Chip Lupo said in an online statement. "The best states to drive in are ones that are relatively rural, with smaller populations, a low cost of living, well-maintained roads and safe motorists."

Best states for drivers

Dig deeper:

Vermont

Vermont ranks as the best state for drivers, fueled by strong safety and low ownership costs. The state has the fewest vehicle thefts per capita, a declining traffic fatality rate, and one of the lowest shares of uninsured drivers. 

Vermont also boasts some of the nation’s lowest car insurance, maintenance and operating costs, along with well-maintained roads.

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Iowa

Iowa places second, earning high marks for road quality, low congestion and strict traffic laws. The state also has low crime and vehicle theft rates, making it a safe place to drive. 

Drivers benefit from relatively low insurance and operating costs, as well as easy access to gas stations, dealerships and repair shops.

Kansas

Kansas rounds out the top three, driven by excellent road quality, light traffic and short commute times. The state has the second-best road quality nationwide and one of the lowest congestion rates. 

Drivers also benefit from relatively low gas prices and operating costs, making Kansas an affordable and efficient place to commute.