Texas is the sixth-best state for a summer road trip, according to a new WalletHub study comparing all 50 U.S. states across 32 key metrics. The analysis considered factors ranging from the number of attractions to road quality to costs.
Nearly 72% of American adults are planning some kind of road trip this year, with more than one-third expected to take more than one trip. However, choosing the right destination and staying within budget can be challenging. The national average for gas prices is still above $4.00 per gallon, and that's far from the only cost travelers have to consider.
“Taking a summer road trip can be a very exciting way to experience a new place, but with the prices of gas, food and accommodations still impacted by inflation, you'll want to be in a state that makes this type of vacation affordable,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo. “Safe roads are also key, and so is having plenty of worthwhile attractions to stop at along the way. The best states for summer road trips keep costs low while providing the best driving experience and most fun activities.”
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In-Depth Look at Texas
Texas displays some notable strengths for summer road trippers, including the most well-maintained bridges in the country and the second-most access to roads designated by the Department of Transportation as “scenic byways.” It also has the fifth-lowest average gas prices and ranks first for amusement and theme parks per capita.
However, Texas has room for improvement in other areas. For example, the state has the seventh-worst summer weather. In addition, it has the 10th-most car thefts and fourth-fewest historic landmarks per capita.
How Texas Ranks in Key Categories
- 15th for costs
- 39th for safety
- Fifth for activities
This puts Texas in sixth place out of the 50 states in WalletHub's study.
Best Summer Road-Trip Destinations
Overall Rank | State | Total Score | Costs Rank | Safety Rank | Activities Rank |
1 | Minnesota | 61.11 | 16 | 3 | 20 |
2 | Utah | 60.15 | 34 | 6 | 8 |
3 | Louisiana | 60.03 | 1 | 42 | 10 |
4 | New York | 58.88 | 42 | 13 | 3 |
5 | Florida | 58.55 | 21 | 49 | 2 |
6 | Texas | 58.18 | 15 | 39 | 5 |
7 | Maine | 58.15 | 29 | 1 | 32 |
8 | Georgia | 57.8 | 2 | 32 | 25 |
9 | North Carolina | 57.79 | 17 | 35 | 6 |
10 | Ohio | 57.23 | 24 | 25 | 14 |
The methodology can be found on the full version of the article on WalletHub.
