Hawaii and Washington rank among the worst states to drive in the U.S., as highlighted in a recent report. The findings might offer surprising insights into driving conditions across America.
WalletHub has unveiled its 2025 report after a detailed evaluation of all 50 states. Each state was assessed based on various dimensions: costs of car ownership and maintenance, traffic and infrastructure rank, safety rank, and access to vehicles and maintenance metrics.
According to Chip Lupo, a WalletHub analyst, owning a vehicle isn’t the same everywhere; in some locations, it feels like a financial burden.
“Apart from high fuel costs, maintenance and insurance can drain your wallet,” Lupo stated. “Some areas even add to the stress with congested traffic that eats away at both your fuel and your time.”
Lupo concluded that states boasting low populations, affordable living, well-kept roads, and cautious drivers tend to provide the best driving experiences.
For residents curious about their own states’ rankings, the report undoubtedly offers valuable insights.
States Rank as the Worst for Driving in the U.S.
Hawaii emerges at the bottom, clinching the title of the worst state for drivers, according to this study. In costs of car ownership and upkeep, the Aloha State received the highest score. Its position on traffic and infrastructure was far from stellar, landing at a disappointing 41st place.
Contemplating the Best States for Driving in the U.S.
Kansas proudly stands as the best state for drivers, a surprising feat given its flat terrain. The report highlights that Kansas boasts the third-best road quality across the nation, essential for minimizing vehicular accidents.
The analysis noted, “Maintaining smooth, paved roads is likely easier here, given Kansas is flatter than a pancake.” Yet, beyond the geographical humor, there’s a vivid reality in the state’s driving experience.
Moreover, this Midwestern gem also enjoys a low rate of speeding and a respectably short average commute time, clocking in at just over 20 minutes. This suggests that, while the population may be spread out, residents generally reside close to their workplaces, allowing them to avoid the frustrations of snarled traffic.
In contemplating these findings, one cannot help but think of local businesses influenced by driving conditions—the quaint diners, auto repair shops, and gas stations that line the roads. Kansas, with its friendly towns and smooth highways, stands in stark contrast to the stress-inducing congestion found elsewhere. Perhaps, the experience of driving isn’t solely measured by time or cost, but also by the tranquility found in the journey.
