A recent report by the personal-finance website WalletHub, showed that Americans lose an average of $733 annually due to time spent in traffic. The report, which ranks 2024's Best and Worst Cities to Drive in, lists Plano among the top 10 best cities for drivers.
According to the study, Plano ranks 10th overall among the best cities for drivers. The city excels in several key areas, including a low rate of car thefts, where it ranks 13th. Plano also ranks 28th in the number of auto-repair shops per capita and 15th for having relatively low average gas prices, making it a favorable city for drivers.
Plano, however, has fallen significantly in the ranking over the last several years. In 2022, Plano ranked second nationally for the best city to drive in. In 2023, Plano fell to the fourth place in the ranking.
The majority of Americans depend on cars for their daily transportation, with "87% of daily trips occurring in personal vehicles," according to the Bureau of Transportation statistics. While driving provides a private and comfortable way to commute, it often comes with significant hassle and cost. On average, drivers spend nearly 370 hours on the road each year.
“Car prices have gone up significantly over the past few years, and gas remains expensive going into the summer travel season,” said Wallethub Analyst Chip Lupo in an official statement. “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.”
Ahead of Plano in the ranking was Raleigh, North Carolina; Boise, Idaho; Corpus Christi, Texas; Greensboro, North Carolina; Jacksonville, Florida; Orlando, Florida; Scottsdale, Arizona; Wichita, Kansas; and Tampa, Florida.
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