These states are quietly leading the way in road quality
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Across the nation, millions of miles of roads connect people, products, and places—but not all pavement is created equal.
In some states, road trips are smooth sailing, while in others, it can feel like you’re dodging potholes at every turn.
A new breakdown of national road data paints a clear picture of where things are running efficiently—and where drivers might want to brace for bumps.
As experts dig into the details, a few surprising names are climbing to the top of the list for road quality.
According to an analysis by Local Tire Guys, using data from the Federal Highway Administration, 97.4% of Indiana’s 9,063 miles of road are in acceptable condition. Only 237 miles failed to meet federal standards.
That result fits the state’s role as a national logistics hub, intersected by five major interstates, including I‑65, I‑70, and I‑69.
Its location connects key metro areas like Chicago, Cincinnati, and St. Louis, making infrastructure vital to its manufacturing and agriculture sectors.
The state is often referred to as the “Crossroads of America”—and its smooth roads reflect that title.
Also read: Surprise recall hits the road–what it means for you.
With only 519 miles considered unacceptable, the state’s road system plays a key role in transporting wheat, beef, oil, and corn.
In third place, South Dakota keeps 95.1% of its 10,149 miles up to standard—even while facing harsh winter weather.
Its well-kept roads help connect rural communities and support key tourist attractions like Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.
Despite differences in geography and total mileage, both states prioritize infrastructure upkeep.
Wyoming keeps 5,948 of 6,266 miles in good condition, while Vermont maintains 748 of 788 miles.
Tennessee followed in fifth place, with 94.1% of its 4,988 miles meeting acceptable road standards. Only around 300 miles fall below par.
Also read: Seniors: How will the new July driving law affect your license renewal?
Hawaii, New Mexico, Connecticut, and Mississippi also rounded out the bottom five for lowest road quality.
The analysis reveals a broader trend with about 4.2 million miles of roads in the US: while Midwestern and Western states dominate the top rankings, several Northeastern regions appear to be falling behind.
Read next: What’s changing for cyclists in July? A new rule could mean fewer stops—and safer rides
Have you noticed better or worse roads in your area recently? Does your state make the list—or miss the mark? Share your driving experience in the comments below!
In some states, road trips are smooth sailing, while in others, it can feel like you’re dodging potholes at every turn.
A new breakdown of national road data paints a clear picture of where things are running efficiently—and where drivers might want to brace for bumps.
As experts dig into the details, a few surprising names are climbing to the top of the list for road quality.
Indiana earns top marks for smooth driving
Indiana has claimed the top spot for the best-maintained roads in the country.According to an analysis by Local Tire Guys, using data from the Federal Highway Administration, 97.4% of Indiana’s 9,063 miles of road are in acceptable condition. Only 237 miles failed to meet federal standards.
In some states, road trips are easy, while in others, it’s like constantly dodging potholes. Image Source: Tyler Rutherford / Unsplash
That result fits the state’s role as a national logistics hub, intersected by five major interstates, including I‑65, I‑70, and I‑69.
Its location connects key metro areas like Chicago, Cincinnati, and St. Louis, making infrastructure vital to its manufacturing and agriculture sectors.
The state is often referred to as the “Crossroads of America”—and its smooth roads reflect that title.
Kansas and South Dakota hold strong in second and third
Kansas came in second with 96.2% of its 13,619 miles meeting quality benchmarks.Also read: Surprise recall hits the road–what it means for you.
With only 519 miles considered unacceptable, the state’s road system plays a key role in transporting wheat, beef, oil, and corn.
In third place, South Dakota keeps 95.1% of its 10,149 miles up to standard—even while facing harsh winter weather.
Its well-kept roads help connect rural communities and support key tourist attractions like Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills.
Smaller states prove size doesn’t matter for upkeep
Vermont and Wyoming tied for fourth place, each with 94.9% of roads rated as acceptable.Despite differences in geography and total mileage, both states prioritize infrastructure upkeep.
Wyoming keeps 5,948 of 6,266 miles in good condition, while Vermont maintains 748 of 788 miles.
Tennessee followed in fifth place, with 94.1% of its 4,988 miles meeting acceptable road standards. Only around 300 miles fall below par.
Some regions are falling far behind in maintenance
At the other end of the spectrum, Rhode Island landed in last place. Only 55.3% of its roads are considered acceptable, putting the state at the bottom of the national rankings.Also read: Seniors: How will the new July driving law affect your license renewal?
Hawaii, New Mexico, Connecticut, and Mississippi also rounded out the bottom five for lowest road quality.
The analysis reveals a broader trend with about 4.2 million miles of roads in the US: while Midwestern and Western states dominate the top rankings, several Northeastern regions appear to be falling behind.
Read next: What’s changing for cyclists in July? A new rule could mean fewer stops—and safer rides
Have you noticed better or worse roads in your area recently? Does your state make the list—or miss the mark? Share your driving experience in the comments below!
