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States With the Most Potholes

Washington

Washington
  • State Rank #1
  • Spokane: Ranks #6 for Individual Cities
  • Yakima: Ranks #7 for Individual Cities
  • Seattle: Ranks #9 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $392.46

Unfortunately, Washington state, known for its gorgeous scenery and dynamic towns, also ranks first in terms of potholes. From the bustling streets of Seattle to the scenic roadways of Spokane and Yakima, drivers across the state encounter a similar foe: potholes. According to data research by USA TODAY Blueprint, towns like as Spokane and Yakima are in the top ten in the country for pothole-related issues, with Google Trends data indicating considerable online searches for potholes.

The combination of winter precipitation and fluctuating temperatures takes a toll on Washington's roadways, exacerbating the formation of these pesky craters. Despite efforts to maintain infrastructure, potholes persist, causing headaches for commuters and travelers alike. As spring approaches, drivers must remain vigilant, navigating these road hazards to minimize potential vehicle damage. While Washington boasts scenic beauty, its pothole problem serves as a reminder that even paradise has its imperfections.

Pothole Fixes/Cornelia and Racine/Daniel X. O’Neil/CC BY 2.0 DEED/Flickr

Minnesota

Minnesota
  • State Rank #2
  • Minneapolis: Ranks #3 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $377.68

Minnesota, with its reputation for pristine lakes and vibrant culture, unfortunately, faces a significant pothole problem. The city of Minneapolis, in particular, ranks high on the list of cities grappling with pothole-related woes. According to USA TODAY Blueprint's analysis, Minneapolis holds the third position nationwide for pothole concerns, with a considerable volume of online searches reflecting the frustration of residents.

 

The harsh winters and rapid temperature fluctuations characteristic of Minnesota contribute to the formation of these road hazards. Despite efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, potholes remain a persistent issue, impacting commuters and residents alike. As spring arrives, drivers in Minneapolis must navigate carefully to avoid damage to their vehicles.

Michal Manas, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Michigan

Michigan
  • State Rank #3
  • Detroit: Ranks #29 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $356.29

Ah, Michigan, the land of Great Lakes, Motor City, and... potholes. Yes, you heard that right! It's not just the home of Motown and the Lions; it's also a hotbed for potholes, ranking 29th on the nationwide list. So, if you're cruising down Woodward Avenue blasting some classic tunes, be prepared to swerve like you're in a high-speed chase - except the only thing you're chasing is a smooth stretch of road.

Michigan's pothole problem isn't just a nuisance; it's practically a state pastime. With winters that freeze and thaw more times than you can count, the roads resemble Swiss cheese more than smooth pavement. But hey, at least it gives drivers a chance to practice their evasive maneuvers, right? So, if you're planning a road trip through the Wolverine State, make sure your suspension is in tip-top shape, and your reflexes are as sharp as a Michigan left turn.

Royalbroil, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tennessee

Tennessee
  • State Rank #4
  • Nashville: Ranks #4 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $399.11

Tennessee, where the sweet melodies of guitars harmonize with the unexpected percussion of potholes! Nashville, known for its catchy melodies and mouthwatering BBQ, also knows how to make a statement when it comes to potholes, securing a solid fourth place on the national stage.

It appears that even the most conversational country roads have a few bumps worth belting out a tune about. The next time you find yourself strolling down Broadway, be on the lookout for those mischievous potholes trying to steal the limelight from the iconic Grand Ole Opry. They sure know how to make an entrance!

Infrogmation of New Orleans, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Indiana

Indiana
  • State Rank #5
  • Indianapolis: Ranks #17 (Tie) for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $364.76

Oh, Indiana, a place known for its love of basketball and vast cornfields that seem to go on forever. But let's discuss a less-acknowledged state pastime: avoiding potholes! Let's consider Indianapolis, for example. The roads around the Indy 500 can be quite challenging to navigate, resembling an obstacle course with their massive potholes. 

If you happen to find yourself driving through the Crossroads of America, just a heads up - the road might be a little bit rough. Just something to keep in mind! Always stay alert and ready for anything—those potholes have a knack for appearing out of absolutely freaking nowhere my friends!

formulanone from Huntsville, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

California

California
  • State Rank #6
  • Los Angeles: Ranks #2 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $415.66

California, with its sunny beaches and thriving tech industry, is not without its imperfections. One such imperfection is the presence of potholes, which can be found amidst the picturesque scenery. Even in lively Los Angeles, where the entertainment industry is dominant, avoiding potholes feels like an additional responsibility for drivers.

Even though the city is filled with palm trees and beautiful views, getting around can sometimes feel like a challenging task, as potholes seem to be hiding at every turn. From the famous streets to the bustling highways, these road imperfections serve as a reminder that even in paradise, there are flaws.

Carol M. Highsmith, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

New York

New York
  • State Rank #7
  • New York City: Ranks #1 for Individual Cities
  • Upstate: Face notable pothole challenges too small individually, but large enough to make the state a worst offender.
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $386.55

In the state of New York, beyond the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan, lies a network of roads that face the same pothole predicament. From the bustling streets of New York City to the rural highways upstate, drivers across the state contend with these road hazards. New York ranks at the top nationally for pothole concerns, but, you knew that, didn't you New York.

Whether you're navigating the congested streets of the city or embarking on a scenic drive through the countryside, keeping a sharp eye out for potholes is essential. Despite the challenges, New Yorkers are resilient, adapting to the rhythm of dodging potholes as part of their daily commute. So, as you journey through the Empire State, remember to embrace the pothole-dodging dance—it's just another part of the New York experience.

Kamil Czainski, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Maryland

Maryland
  • State Rank #8 (Tie)
  • Baltimore: Listed as the Worst Offender for Individual Cities in Maryland
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $399.07

Nestled along the picturesque shores of the Chesapeake Bay, Baltimore stands as a beacon of history, culture, and resilience in the state of Maryland. As Maryland's largest city, Baltimore boasts a rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm. From the vibrant waterfront of the Inner Harbor to the cobblestone streets of Fells Point, there's no shortage of sights to explore in this bustling metropolis.

Despite its many attractions, Baltimore, like many cities, faces its share of challenges, including potholes. As drivers navigate the city's labyrinth of streets and highways, they often encounter these ubiquitous road hazards. Whether dodging potholes on the Jones Falls Expressway or maneuvering around them in the bustling streets of downtown, Baltimoreans have mastered the art of pothole avoidance.

Suzuki GSX1400 crash damage/big-ashb/CC BY 2.0 DEED/Flickr

New Jersey

New Jersey
  • State Rank #8 (Tie)
  • South Orange, Belleville-Nutley: Listed as the Worst Offenders for Individual Cities in New Jersey
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $399.61

Snuggled right in between the lively hubs of the greater New York City and Philadelphia, good ol' New Jersey, also known as the Garden State, has a whole smorgasbord of experiences to offer. With its picturesque shores and quaint suburban towns, New Jersey has a little something for everyone to enjoy.

In cities like Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton, urban life thrives amidst historic landmarks and vibrant communities. However, even in the quieter suburbs like South Orange and Nutley, residents contend with the omnipresent challenge of potholes. Despite this, New Jerseyans take pride in their resilience, resourcefulness, and strong sense of community, making the Garden State a unique and cherished place to call home.

(Image via Adobe)

Georgia

Georgia
  • State Rank #10
  • Atlanta: Ranks #12 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $407.71

Georgia, known for its warm Southern charm and scenic landscapes, grapples with a notable pothole problem, particularly in its bustling capital, Atlanta. The city ranks 12th nationwide for pothole concerns, indicating a significant volume of online searches reflecting the frustration of residents and commuters.

The city's vibrant urban life and bustling streets, coupled with Georgia's varied climate, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Atlanta's roads can be a bumpy ride, especially as spring approaches and potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

Pododonnell100, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania
  • State Rank  #11
  • Philadelphia: Ranks #15 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $384.33

Pennsylvania, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, contends with a significant pothole problem, notably in its bustling city of Philadelphia. According to data analysis, Philadelphia ranks 15th nationwide for pothole concerns, indicating a substantial volume of online searches reflecting residents' frustration.

The city's historic streets, coupled with Pennsylvania's unpredictable weather patterns, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Philadelphia's roads can be challenging, particularly as spring approaches and potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

Famartin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rhode Island

Rhode Island
  • State Rank  #12
  • Providence: Ranks #34 (Tie) for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $386.93

Despite its small size, Rhode Island faces significant pothole challenges, especially in Providence, its capital city. Based on data analysis, it seems that Providence is ranked 34th in the country when it comes to pothole concerns. This suggests that there are a lot of online searches from residents expressing their frustrations.

The city's historic streets, combined with Rhode Island's harsh winters and fluctuating temperatures, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Providence's roads can be a daunting task, especially as spring approaches and potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

(Image via Pexels)

Illinois

Illinois
  • State Rank  13 - Google Trends Index Average: 45.00
  • Chicago: Ranks #11 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $379.23

Illinois, with its diverse urban landscape and sprawling farmlands, faces notable pothole challenges, particularly in its vibrant city of Chicago. According to data analysis, Chicago ranks 11th nationwide for pothole concerns, indicating a significant volume of online searches reflecting residents' frustrations.

The city's bustling streets, combined with Illinois' harsh winters and fluctuating temperatures, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Chicago's roads can be a daunting task, especially as spring approaches and potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

pothole/Eugene Peretz/CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED/Flickr

Missouri

Missouri
  • State Rank  #14
  • Kansas City, KS/MO: Ranks #10 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $378.85

t pothole challenges, particularly evident in cities like Kansas City. According to data analysis, Kansas City ranks 10th nationwide for pothole concerns, indicating a substantial volume of online searches reflecting residents' frustrations.

The city's bustling streets, coupled with Missouri's unpredictable weather patterns, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Kansas City's roads can be a daunting task, especially as spring approaches and potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

Thomas R Machnitzki, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

South Carolina

South Carolina
  • State Rank  #15
  • Charleston: Ranks #25 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $395.83

South Carolina, known for its picturesque coastal landscapes and Southern charm, faces notable pothole challenges, particularly in cities like Charleston. According to data analysis, Charleston ranks 25th nationwide for pothole concerns, indicating a significant volume of online searches reflecting residents' frustrations.

The city's historic streets, combined with South Carolina's humid subtropical climate, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Charleston's roads can be challenging, especially as spring approaches and potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Vermont

Vermont
  • State Rank  #16 (Tie)
  • Burlington: Ranks #17 (Tie) for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $374.45

Vermont, known for its scenic beauty and quaint charm, grapples with notable pothole challenges, particularly evident in cities like Burlington. According to data analysis, Burlington ranks 17th nationwide for pothole concerns, indicating a significant volume of online searches reflecting residents' frustrations.

The city's historic streets, coupled with Vermont's harsh winters and fluctuating temperatures, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Burlington's roads can be challenging, especially as spring approaches and potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

MG_3850/DDohler/CC BY 2.0 DEED/Flickr

Virginia

Virginia
  • State Rank  #16 (Tie)
  • Herndon, Oakton, Vienna, Tysons Corner, Chantilly, Fairfax City, Centreville, McLean, and Potomac: Face notable pothole challenges too small individually, but large enough to make the state a worst offender.
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $401.17

Virginia faces a considerable challenge with potholes, affecting both urban and suburban areas such as Herndon, Oakton, Vienna, Tysons Corner, Chantilly, Fairfax City, Centreville, McLean, and Potomac. These regions are regularly grappling with road maintenance issues. 

The presence of potholes in these regions can be attributed to various factors, including weather fluctuations and heavy traffic. As spring approaches, drivers are faced with the challenge of navigating road hazards, particularly the pesky potholes that seem to multiply. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, these obstacles continue to pose a challenge for motorists.

Zm05gamer, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Ohio

Ohio
  • State Rank  #18
  • Columbus: Ranks #37 (Tie) for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $353.76

Ohio is facing some serious pothole issues, especially in cities like Columbus. According to the Google trends data analysis, Columbus is ranked 37th nationwide for pothole concerns. This suggests that there is a significant number of online searches reflecting the frustrations of residents.

The state's diverse landscapes, which include bustling urban centers and serene rural areas, contribute to the high number of potholes. Ohio's road infrastructure continues to be a challenge, particularly during the spring season when potholes become more common. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain the roads, navigating them can still be quite daunting.

IMG_3834/DDohler/CC BY 2.0 DEED/Flickr

Massachusetts

Massachusetts
  • State Rank  #19
  • Boston: Ranks #37 (Tie) for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $386.20

Massachusetts has some significant pothole challenges, especially in cities like Boston. Based on data analysis, it seems that Boston is ranked 37th in terms of pothole concerns across the country. This suggests that there is a considerable number of online searches that reflect the frustrations of the residents.

The state's diverse landscapes, from historic urban centers to picturesque rural areas, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Massachusetts' roads can be challenging, especially with the arrival of spring when potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles.

Daderot, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Colorado

Colorado
  • State Rank  #20
  • Denver: Ranks #24 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $417.14

In the picturesque state of Colorado, where the majestic Rocky Mountains meet vibrant urban landscapes, residents encounter a significant challenge: potholes. Particularly in cities like Denver, navigating the roadways often involves dodging these pesky craters that pepper the streets. With Denver ranking 24th nationwide for pothole concerns according to data analysis, it's evident that residents are all too familiar with the frustrations they bring.

The varied terrain of Colorado, from bustling urban centers to serene mountain towns, presents a unique set of challenges for road maintenance. Harsh winters and rapid temperature fluctuations exacerbate road deterioration, leading to the proliferation of potholes. Commuters and residents alike find themselves navigating a bumpy road, quite literally, in their daily travels.

(Image via Pexels)

Florida

Florida
  • State Rank  #21
  • Miami: Ranks #21 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $396.29

In the Sunshine State of Florida, known for its pristine beaches and vibrant culture, residents face a significant road hazard: potholes. Cities like Miami grapple with this issue, with the city ranking 21st nationwide for pothole concerns according to data analysis.

Florida's unique geographical features, from coastal highways to bustling urban centers, contribute to the prevalence of potholes. Despite efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Florida's roads can be challenging, especially with the arrival of spring when potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles, ensuring a smooth journey under the Florida sun.

Mutney, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Texas

Texas
  • State Rank  #22
  • Houston: Ranks #23 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $397.53

In the Lone Star State of Texas, known for its vast landscapes and vibrant cities, residents encounter a persistent challenge: potholes. Cities like Houston grapple with this issue, with the city ranking 23rd nationwide for pothole concerns according to data analysis.

Texas' diverse terrain, from sprawling urban centers to expansive highways, contributes to the prevalence of potholes. Despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure, navigating Texas' roads can be challenging, especially with the arrival of spring when potholes become more prevalent. Commuters and residents alike must remain vigilant to avoid potential damage to their vehicles, ensuring a smooth journey through the heart of Texas.

(Image via Adobe)

North Dakota

North Dakota
  • State Rank  #23
  • Fargo: Ranks #20 (Tie) for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $364.62

In the vast expanse of North Dakota, where the Great Plains stretch as far as the eye can see, residents face a common adversary: potholes. Cities like Fargo contend with this issue, with the city ranking 20th nationwide for pothole concerns according to data analysis.

The challenging weather conditions in North Dakota, with its harsh winters and unpredictable temperature changes, contribute to the increased occurrence of potholes on the roads. It can be quite a challenge to navigate North Dakota's roads, especially in the spring when potholes start to appear, despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure.

Winter Road Recover/Steve Harris/CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED/Flickr

Kentucky

Kentucky
  • State Rank  #24
  • Louisville: Ranks #30 for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:  $384.76

In the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, where rolling hills and horse farms dot the landscape, residents face a common frustration: potholes. Cities like Louisville contend with this issue, with the city ranking 30th nationwide for pothole concerns according to data analysis.

The diverse landscape and challenging winters in Kentucky result in the degradation of roads, which has led to an increase in the number of potholes. It can be quite a challenge to navigate Kentucky's roads, especially in the spring when potholes start appearing, despite ongoing efforts to repair and maintain road infrastructure.

Brian Stansberry, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nebraska

Nebraska
  • State Rank  #25
  • Omaha: Ranks #40 (Tie) for Individual Cities
  • Avg Prices for Car Maintenance:   $374.53

In the heart of the Great Plains lies Nebraska, a state known for its vast expanses of farmland and friendly communities. However, residents in cities like Omaha face a common challenge: potholes. Despite its reputation for wide-open spaces, Nebraska deals with pothole concerns, with Omaha ranking 40th nationwide according to data analysis.

Nebraska's winters can be quite unforgiving, wreaking havoc on the roads and giving birth to those pesky potholes. Trying to navigate Nebraska's roads can be quite the adventure, especially when spring rolls around and potholes start popping up like surprise party guests. Despite the best efforts to fix and maintain the road infrastructure, it seems like those pesky potholes just can't resist showing up.

Langensteins Pothole/Infrogmation of New Orleans/CC BY 2.0 DEED/Flickr