The states with the best roads and the least traffic in America, according to WalletHub

As a whole, America is a car-dependent nation. But how safe, time-consuming, and cost-effective driving is depends heavily on your location.

WalletHub looked at dozens of indicators to determine the best states for driving, considering road safety, traffic slowdowns, cost of ownership, gas prices, and infrastructure quality, among others.

“Owning a car can really squeeze your wallet if you’re not in the right location,” said WalletHub analyst Chip Lupo.

“On top of having pricey gas, maintenance and insurance expenses, some states can hurt you even more financially with excessive traffic congestion, which wastes both your fuel and your productivity,” Lupo said. “The best states to drive in are ones that are relatively rural, with smaller populations, a low cost of living, well-maintained roads and safe motorists.”

Continue reading to see which states were rated the best seven for driving.

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Alabama has the 7th-lowest gas prices in the country and ranks 11th for the lowest auto-maintenance costs. Road quality ranks 11th, and congestion ranks 10th nationally.

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Florida ranks 2nd for the fewest icy days, keeping weather-related hazards minimal year-round. Road quality comes in at 18th, although congestion ranks 41st.

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Indiana ranks 1st in the country for road quality and has the 7th cheapest car insurance. Congestion ranks 10th, but the traffic fatality rate ranks 26th nationally.

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Nebraska ranks 15th for traffic indiscipline and places 8th for road quality. Congestion is low at 14th, and commute times rank 5th shortest nationally.

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Kansas ranks 4th for DUI punishment strictness and has low congestion, placing 7th nationally. Road quality ranks 2nd, helping it secure the third spot.

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Iowa has low congestion and short commute times, both ranking 6th. Road quality ranks 14th, and traffic indiscipline ranks 9th lowest in the country.

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Vermont is the best state for driving in the country, according to WalletHub. It ranks 2nd for road quality and has the 3rd lowest car insurance premiums in the country. Traffic indiscipline ranks 7th best nationally, and car theft ranks 1st lowest.