Nevada named among the worst places to drive in 2026

Heavy afternoon freeway traffic on Interstate 215 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Felipe Sanchez/Shutterstock)

By USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

February 17, 2026

By Carly Sauvageau, Reno Gazette Journal

Whether you’re trying to head to the North Valleys after 5 p.m. or make it out to USA Parkway during a shift change, Reno-area drivers know traffic can be challenging.

Nevada ranked among the worst states in the country for drivers in a new 2026 study by WalletHub, a media company that publishes personal finance content.

WalletHub said traffic isn’t only bad for people’s tempers and schedules – it also is quite harmful to their wallets.

“Congestion cost the average driver $894 in 2025, thanks to an average of 49 hours spent sitting in traffic,” WalletHub said.

The study evaluated states using data from federal agencies and national organizations, weighing factors such as traffic congestion, road conditions, safety outcomes, fuel prices, insurance costs and access to vehicle maintenance resources.

Here’s a closer look at why Nevada ranked so low for drivers, where the state ranked, which states were named the best, and which states were named the worst.

Is Nevada considered a bad state for driving?

WalletHub ranked Nevada the ninth worst state for drivers in 2026. The state did well in traffic and infrastructure and in safety, earning the No. 15 and No. 17 spots, respectively. However, Nevada was dragged down by its cost of ownership and maintenance rating (No. 44) and its access to vehicles and maintenance rank (No. 37).

What state is the safest for driving?

Using data from federal agencies and national organizations, WalletHub determined these are the best states for drivers.