The latest figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveal that, as of the fourth quarter of 2025, there were 176,403 automotive repair and maintenance establishments operating across the United States. Way.com compiled state‑level data from the BLS Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages (QCEW) for NAICS 8111 and calculated shop density per 100,000 residents.
Top States by Shop Density
Wyoming, South Dakota and Montana rank as the three states with the most auto repair shops per capita. Each of these states combines a large land area with a sparse population, meaning residents depend heavily on personal vehicles and need nearby repair facilities. Wyoming, for example, logged 742 million vehicle miles traveled in November 2025 despite having fewer than 600,000 residents.
National Context
Across the nation, the average density is 51.6 establishments per 100,000 people. The District of Columbia is listed for reference but is not a state, and territories such as Puerto Rico (853 shops) and the U.S. Virgin Islands (16 shops) are excluded from the ranking.
Why Shop Density Matters
Vehicle ownership patterns help explain the variation. The Federal Highway Administration reported 297,525,836 registered motor vehicles in 2024, and the average vehicle age has risen to 12.8 years. As new‑car prices climb—Kelley Blue Book notes an average price of $49,814 in November 2025, up 1.3 % from the prior year—more drivers are keeping older cars longer. At the same time, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics shows vehicle maintenance and repair costs increased 5.4 % year‑over‑year as of December 2025, roughly 51 % higher than in January 2019.
These trends mean that when a vehicle needs service, many drivers prefer to rely on professional mechanics rather than attempt DIY repairs. Where you live therefore determines how many options you have and how quickly you can get service.
Impact on Consumers
In states with low shop density, drivers may face longer wait times and higher prices due to limited competition. Conversely, high‑density states typically offer more choices and potentially more competitive pricing, though quality can still vary. Consumers are advised to check reviews and seek recommendations before selecting a shop.
Impact on Shop Owners
For entrepreneurs, shop density is a useful starting point for market analysis, but it does not tell the whole story. Labor costs, local rent rates and the availability of qualified technicians are critical factors. The industry faces a significant hiring challenge, with roughly 70,000 technician and mechanic openings projected each year through 2034.
Prospective owners should also consider regional vehicle mileage patterns, average vehicle age and local price trends when evaluating the viability of a new location.
Looking Ahead
As vehicles continue to age and repair costs rise, the demand for reliable auto repair services is likely to grow. States with higher shop density may benefit from economies of scale, while those with fewer shops could see opportunities for new entrants willing to meet local demand.
Understanding the distribution of auto repair establishments helps both consumers and business owners make informed decisions about where to drive, where to spend, and where to invest.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
