Worst Roads in Ohio 2025: Where Drivers Are Losing Money & Patience

Ohio drivers are no strangers to potholes and pavement cracks. In 2025, some roads have gotten so bad that they’re not just inconvenient—they’re downright costly. Here’s a look at the worst offenders around the state.

Top 5 Worst Roads in Ohio (2025)

1. I-71 (Cleveland-Columbus): From deep potholes to crumbling overpasses, drivers report severe wear and dangerous patchwork repairs along this stretch.
2. I-75 (Cincinnati-Dayton): Ongoing construction zones, cracked pavement, and bottlenecks frustrate commuters and long-haul truckers alike.
3. SR-2 (Cleveland): Rough patches, potholes, and flooding make this east-west corridor risky during wet weather.
4. US-23 (Columbus): Constant lane closures, uneven pavement, and traffic backups have worsened over the past year, with limited progress on repairs.
5. I-480 (Cleveland): Known for aggressive merging and road surface issues that damage suspensions and tires.

Why Are Ohio’s Roads in Such Poor Condition?

Brutal freeze-thaw cycles cause pavement cracking every winter. Budget limitations and deferred maintenance have left many roads vulnerable to further deterioration, and heavy truck traffic adds daily strain.

How Much Is It Costing Drivers?

The average Ohio driver spends over $680 per year fixing flat tires, bent rims, and alignment problems caused by rough roads, making it one of the most expensive states for road-related car repairs.

How to Protect Your Vehicle

Keep your tires properly inflated, avoid large puddles, slow down near visible cracks, and use navigation apps to avoid known problem zones. Report major potholes to Ohio DOT for potential quicker repairs.