New Study Names Philadelphia The ‘Worst’ City to Drive in

Philadelphia has been ranked as the worst U.S. city to drive in, according to a WalletHub 2025 report. The report cited traffic congestion, road infrastructure issues, and safety concerns as factors contributing to its rankings.

WalletHub considered 30 key factors, ranging from the average price of gas to the number of hours spent in traffic congestion each year. Philadelphia ranked among the highest in traffic congestion, with equally poor scores in commute times, driver safety, and road quality.

The study also found that drivers in Philadelphia pay above-average costs for parking and car insurance.

"From Center City to the Schuylkill Expressway, locals are already familiar with what this ranking confirms: Driving in Philadelphia can be a daily test of patience," said FOX 29 Philadelphia. "The combination of tight streets, potholes, gridlock, and high expenses makes it one of the toughest places in the country to own and operate a car, according to the WalletHub report."

Corpus Christi, Texas, was named the best city to drive in, according to WalletHub.

"Living in one of the best cities to drive in can make owning and maintaining a car much cheaper. However, costs aren't the only factors that matter; the best cities for drivers also minimize commute times and traffic congestion, have accident rates well below the national average, and keep their roads in good condition,” said WalletHub analyst Cip Lupo.

WalletHub noted that drivers spend an average of more than 369 hours on the road annually, equivalent to about 15.4 days. "Add the costs of wasted time and fuel due to traffic congestion, and our collective tab comes to about $771 per driver each year," the company stated.