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Midwest Dominance in Car Ownership Costs

In a revealing report by National Business Capital, the Midwest has emerged as the most affordable region for purchasing and operating a vehicle in 2025. Ohio claims the top spot, followed by Indiana in second place, while states in the West bear the brunt of exorbitant expenses associated with car ownership.

According to the study, which analyzed various factors affecting car ownership costs—such as sales tax, insurance, fuel prices, and road quality—Midwest states like Ohio scored an impressive 77.8 out of 100, making it the best state for car ownership affordability. Indiana follows closely with a score of 76.2. This marks a significant shift in trends, as the Midwest was often overshadowed by coastal states regarding cost of living and ownership expenses.

Key Findings of the Study

1. Midwest Affordability: The analysis concluded that drivers in the Midwest and Northeast enjoy the lowest average costs when it comes to car ownership, while average gas prices in the West significantly hinder affordability. In Ohio, for instance, the comprehensive costs related to car ownership are markedly lower than in many other regions.
2. Cheapest Used Cars: The Northeast also ranks favorably due to lower average used car prices. In this region, prices hover around $14,904, which is notably cheaper than in the Midwest and over 70% less compared to the Mountain West states.
3. High Gas Prices in Left Coast: Pacific states are experiencing stratospheric gas prices averaging $4.24 per gallon—almost 50% higher than prices in the South, with California leading the pack at $4.61 per gallon.
4. Economic Pressure on Western States: Many drivers in states like California and Arizona are grappling with escalating costs. Arizona ranks the lowest in affordability, highlighting the sharp contrast with Midwest pricing.
5. Southern States Mixed Results: While Southern states benefit from lower fuel costs, hidden expenses such as personal property taxes and dealer fees often mitigate those advantages, leading to a mixed bag of affordability.

Vehicle Ownership Experiences by Region

The Midwest continues to score well on road quality, boasting an 88.1% acceptable rating, while Pacific states, unfortunately, recorded the worst roads at just 73.9%. Drivers in the Midwest can not only enjoy lower costs but also smoother rides, which is critical for daily commuters and weekend travelers alike.

Joe Camberato, CEO of National Business Capital, stated, “Americans love their cars, but no one loves the cost. It's shocking how different those costs are at both ends of Route 66.” His observation underscores the incredible disparity in car ownership experiences across different regions of the United States.

The Future of Car Ownership

As we approach 2025, it seems the trend of the Midwest leading the charge in car ownership affordability is set to continue. With smooth roads, low costs, and cheaper cars, Ohio and Indiana are well-positioned to maintain their status as the best states for driving enthusiasts and everyday commuters alike. This critical data not only benefits potential car buyers but also highlights the changing dynamics of the automotive market in America.

Conclusion

For those looking to purchase a vehicle in the near future, Ohio and Indiana offer compelling advantages. Their emphasis on affordability and road quality could set a new standard for car ownership in the United States, shaping the future landscape of automotive experiences across the nation.