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These States Have the Worst (And Best) Roads in America

Are you unlucky enough to have some of the worst roads and bridges in the country?

driver driving a truck white talking on radio
Updated Jan. 22, 2025
Fact checked

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.

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5. Connecticut (Worst)

f11photo/Adobe Skyline of downtown Hartford

Connecticut is the fifth-worst state for roads, with around 33% of its roads deemed non-acceptable, and 7% of its bridge deck area deemed poor by square mile.

The small state packs a big punch to drivers' wallets too, with annual costs around $711.

4. New York (Worst)

SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe New York City Skyline at sunset

New Yorkers face not only traffic jams, but also tough driving conditions. 26% of roads and 10% of bridges received low ratings.

New York drivers don't face the highest cost per motorist compared to the top 10 states. However, $625 provides ample sticker shock to place The Empire State in the top 20. 


3. Massachusetts (Worst)

lunamarina/Adobe Boston Zakim bridge

Home to many of the oldest towns in colonial America, many Massachusetts roads have weathered centuries of rain and snow. 

That deep history has impacted the infrastructure, as 28% of roads are deemed non-acceptable, and 11% of bridges need improvement. 

At $620, Massachusetts drivers take the 20th slot for highest costs in the country. 

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2. West Virginia (Worst)

Christopher Boswell/Adobe Clarksburg West Virginia during day

West Virginia takes the second-to-last slot, with 31% of non-acceptable roads and 15% poor bridge deck by surface area. 

The state's drivers each pay about $726 a year to fix the roads, putting it in the top 10 when it comes to cost per driver in each state.

1. Rhode Island (Worst)

Wirestock/Adobe downtown Providence River in Rhode Island

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 one of the smallest states, but it has the biggest issue with roads.

Around 48% of the roads are in non-acceptable condition, and 19% of bridges in the state are in poor condition. Infrastructure repairs cost drivers the most out of all 50 states, at about $845 per year. 

5. Nevada (Best)

vichie81/Adobe aerial las vegas at night

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

Only 14% of Nevada's roads are deemed non-acceptable, and 1% of its bridges are considered to be in poor condition. 

Each driver in the state pays around $558 annually to maintain the infrastructure.

4. Tennessee (Best)

Kevin Ruck/Adobe memphis tennessee skyline at sunrise

Known for its historic music scene, Tennessee should also be acknowledged for their well-maintained roads. Tennesseans pay around $209 per year per driver to maintain roads and bridges in the state.

With only 5% of Tennessee's roads and 5% of its bridges considered to be in non-acceptable condition, the costs appear to pay off. 

3. Florida (Best)

Creative Studio 79/Adobe orlando florida

In the Sunshine State, drivers can expect to pay $425 each year to maintain their roads and bridges.

Only 12% of the state's roads and 3% of its bridges are deemed non-acceptable for drivers to use.

2. Alabama (Best)

Kevin Ruck/Adobe birmingham alabama skyline

Bordering the Gulf Coast as well, Alabama also has some of the best roads.

The state has the second-best roads in the country overall, with 9% of its roads and only 2% of its bridges falling into the non-acceptable category. Each driver pays around $434 annually to maintain the state's infrastructure. 

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1. Georgia (Best)

Kevin Ruck/Adobe Atlanta Georgia at sunset

Georgia takes the top spot when it comes to the best roads in the United States. 

Only 7% of the state's roads and 1% of its bridges are deemed non-acceptable. Drivers pay around $375 annually to have well-maintained roads.

Bottom line

ABCDstock/Adobe construction workers laying new asphalt road pavement

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.

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