The 5 States With the Worst Roads (And the 5 Best)

In some states, it feels like construction work on local highways is a constant. While others badly need repairs. If you're going to be traveling any time soon, it's important to know which roads to avoid.

Every driver thinks their state may have the biggest issues with potholes or crumbling surface streets. However, only drivers driving across the country know for sure.

Before heading out on the road for another road trip, here are the states with the worst and best roads in the country, according to QuoteWizard, so you can get ahead financially by avoiding unnecessary car repairs.

5. Maryland (Worst)

Maryland is the fifth-worst state for roads, with around 27% of its roads deemed non-acceptable.

Driving through Maryland might make you feel like you need to save money on car insurance and ensure full coverage.

However, Maryland drivers pay around $356 annually to fix infrastructure, which puts Maryland in the bottom 10 when it comes to spending per motorist by state.

4. Connecticut (Worst)

Connecticut is one of two New England states in the top five for worst roads in the country.

The small state has 34% of its roads deemed non-acceptable, packing a big punch to drivers’ wallets. The state spends around $676 annually per motorist to fix the roads and infrastructure.

3. West Virginia (Worst)

West Virginia may have the third-worst roads in the country, but the state is spending money to repair its problems.

Drivers in the state pay around $723 annually to fix the state’s infrastructure, which is equal to about 19% of the state’s budget.

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2. Mississippi (Worst)

Mississippi has the second-worst roads in the country. Around 27% of them need repair and are deemed unacceptable.

The state’s drivers each pay about $820 a year to fix the roads, putting it in the top five when it comes to cost per driver in each state to fix their roads.

1. Rhode Island (Worst)

Again, you may need to find ways to save money on car insurance if you’re driving on the roads in Rhode Island. It may be the country’s smallest state, but it has the biggest issue with roads.

Around 50% of the roads in the state are in poor condition, and repairs cost drivers about $823 per year. That ranks it as the third highest state in terms of costs for drivers to repair road issues.

5. Nebraska (Best)

Nebraska checks in as the state with the fifth-best roads in the country.

The Cornhusker State has only 11% of its roads deemed non-acceptable and 5% of its bridges considered in poor condition. Each driver in the state pays around $466 annually to maintain the infrastructure.

4. Iowa (Best)

Another state that’s known for its corn also has well-maintained roads. Iowans pay around $362 per year per driver to maintain roads and bridges in the state.

In exchange, 8% of Iowa's roads and 10% of its bridges are considered to be in non-acceptable condition.

3. Idaho (Best)

In the Potato State, drivers can expect to pay $427 per motorist each year to maintain their roads and bridges.

Only 4% of the state’s roads and 5% of its bridges are deemed non-acceptable for drivers to use.

2. North Dakota (Best)

North Dakota is one of the most northern Midwest states and has some of the best roads.

The state has the second-best roads in the country overall, with 6% of its roads and 5% of its bridges falling into the non-acceptable category. Each driver pays around $479 annually to maintain the roads.

1. Wyoming (Best)

Wyoming takes the top spot when it comes to the best roads in the United States. You may want to earn rewards when you fill up on gas if you drive to Yellowstone or Grand Tetons National Parks on safe and smooth roads.

Only 5% of the state's roads and 7% of its bridges are deemed non-acceptable. Drivers pay around $356 annually to have well-maintained roads.

Bottom line

As you navigate the roads, look for any lingering construction, especially in areas that still need repair. Be extra cautious when driving through states that made the list for having poor roads.

Remember to look for ways to save more on travel to maximize your cash the next time you're on the open road.

Money tips that can work for everyone

No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.

Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.

Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.

Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).