California is one of the worst states to drive in, new list says. Here’s what beat it

Californians don’t have the best reputation on the road, with eight of its cities making the top 10 list of worst drivers, but — perhaps surprisingly — it’s not the worst place to drive in the country.

According to Wallethub’s “2023’s Best and Worst States to Drive in,” California barely made it in the top 10 worst driving states. The online personal finance service rated the 50 states, looking at commuting conditions. Using weighted rankings, it assessed factors such as the cost of car ownership and maintenance, traffic, safety and accessibility to cars and upkeep.

Hawaii ranks at No. 1 for the worst state to drive in. Washington follows at No. 2 and Delaware at No. 3.

California ranks at No. 10.

It also takes the No. 1 spot for worst rush-hour traffic congestion, followed by Maryland and New Jersey at No. 2 and No. 3, respectively. West Virginia was ranked the best state for rush-hour traffic.

What states are the best to drive in?

If you want to be in the best state to drive in, look to the Midwest and South.

Iowa is No. 1 on the list for the best driving state.

Georgia takes No. 2, Ohio at No. 3 and Oklahoma at No. 4. North Carolina rounds out the top 5 list.

Where else does California rank?

According to Wallethub, California has the third-highest car theft rate. Colorado has the top highest and Vermont the lowest.

California also has the most auto-repair shops per capita in the country, with Hawaii at the least. And — to no surprise — California ranked the second highest for average gas price. Hawaii takes No. 1 for the highest average fuel prices.

If you’re looking to save on gas, consider Texas ranks No. 1 for lowest average prices.

This story was originally published January 25, 2023 at 9:56 AM with the headline "California is one of the worst states to drive in, new list says. Here’s what beat it."