Washington, D.C. has been identified as the second‑worst large city in the United States for driving, according to the latest WalletHub “Best and Worst Cities to Drive In” study for 2026. The capital earned an overall score of 36.36 out of 100, landing it in the 99th position among the nation’s 100 biggest cities.
How the rankings were calculated
WalletHub evaluated cities across 30 different measures that examine driving costs, traffic and infrastructure quality, safety, and access to vehicles and maintenance services. A lower numerical rank indicates a better performance. Washington’s scores were particularly low in three key categories:
- Traffic and infrastructure: 96th place
- Safety: 96th place
- Cost of owning and maintaining a vehicle: 73rd place
- Access to vehicles and maintenance: 61st place
The study also noted that Americans lose an average of $894 each year because of time spent in traffic, underscoring the broader economic impact of congestion.
What the numbers mean for D.C. drivers
Washington’s low ranking reflects a combination of high congestion, aging roadways, and relatively high costs associated with vehicle ownership. Residents face steep parking fees, limited access to affordable repair shops, and a higher likelihood of accidents compared with many other large cities.
While the ranking is a snapshot based on WalletHub’s methodology, it provides a clear signal that the District’s transportation network needs attention. City officials and planners can use these findings to prioritize improvements in road maintenance, traffic flow management, and safety initiatives.
How Washington compares regionally
Within the broader Mid‑Atlantic region, other major cities also struggled in the study. Pittsburgh placed 62nd, Newark 87th, Jersey City 88th, Baltimore 92nd, and New York 97th. The only city that outperformed Washington was Scottsdale, Arizona, which claimed the top spot, followed by Boise, Idaho, and Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Looking ahead
The WalletHub report serves as a benchmark for future progress. If the District can address the highlighted weaknesses—particularly in traffic management and safety—its ranking could improve in subsequent years. Residents, commuters, and local businesses all stand to benefit from a more efficient and safer driving environment.
For now, the study underscores the importance of continued investment in transportation infrastructure and policies that reduce congestion and lower the cost of vehicle ownership for Washington’s families.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
