The worst states for driving in the U.S.

Celeste Polidori
August 9, 2024

The five states with the most unfavorable conditions for motorists in the U.S.

Driving is not always an easy task, and in some states, it can be even more complicated due to factors such as traffic congestion, fuel costs, infrastructure, and safety. Each of the 50 states in the U.S. presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages for drivers.

MoneyGeek recently conducted an analysis using data from the Federal Highway Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the FBI. This analysis has resulted in a ranking of the worst states for driving, highlighting the five states with the least favorable conditions for motorists.

The 5 worst states for driving

California

California ranks number 1 on the list, notable for its high traffic congestion and elevated driving costs. With the third highest congestion and the fifth highest cost for motorists, drivers face gasoline prices of $5 per gallon, annual maintenance costs of $416, and annual toll costs of $497. Although it offers relatively affordable comprehensive car insurance options, residents in California should compare insurance quotes to reduce their driving expenses.

Louisiana

Louisiana is not far behind California, as it holds the second spot on the list of the worst states for driving. The state has the sixth highest fatal car accident rate, with nearly 20 deaths per 100,000 residents. Additionally, the quality of its roads is the seventh worst in the country, with only 71% of them in acceptable condition.

Connecticut

Connecticut ranks third with an overall score of 4.1 out of 100. It stands out in ninth place for high fuel and maintenance costs and second place for poor road and bridge infrastructure, with only 548,357 square meters of good roads out of more than 3 million. In 2022, gasoline prices in Connecticut reached $4.984 per gallon, while diesel hit $6.440 per gallon. Currently, the average gasoline price in the state is $3.492, slightly above the national average.

Maryland

Maryland ranks fourth on the list of the worst states for driving and is the most expensive for motorists. In addition to high gasoline and maintenance costs, it also has the second highest annual premium for comprehensive car insurance. The price of gasoline is $4.14 per gallon, in Maryland, while the average annual maintenance cost is $399, and annual toll expenses amount to $263.

Florida

Florida holds the fifth spot on the list of the worst states for driving, with a score of 8. Although it has less congestion than Maryland, it ranks 35th in terms of infrastructure, with only 16% of its roads in poor condition. Fuel prices in Florida are below the national average, at $3.377 per gallon of gasoline. In terms of safety, the state ranks 19th, reporting 558 vehicle thefts in 2022, according to the FBI.