States Without Toll Roads Or Bridges
If you’re driving across the country and want to avoid paying tolls, you may be wondering exactly which states do not have any toll roads or bridges. By learning where toll-free highways are located, you can plan your road trip route accordingly and potentially save money on cross-country travel.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Alaska, Hawaii, Mississippi, New Hampshire, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming do not currently have any toll roads or bridges.
States Without Toll Roads
Alaska
Alaska is one of the few states in the United States that does not have any toll roads. The state’s vast and sparsely populated landscape makes it impractical to implement tolls on its roadways. With its stunning natural beauty, Alaska attracts many tourists who enjoy scenic drives without the burden of toll fees.
Whether you’re exploring Denali National Park or driving along the breathtaking Alaska Highway, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road without reaching for your wallet.
Hawaii
Another state free from toll roads is Hawaii. The Aloha State consists of a chain of islands, and toll roads simply do not exist. Instead, residents and visitors can traverse the islands’ picturesque landscapes and experience the unique culture without any additional cost.
Whether you’re driving along the famous Hana Highway in Maui or exploring the volcanic wonders of the Big Island, you can enjoy the beauty of Hawaii without worrying about toll fees.
Mississippi
Mississippi is a state known for its southern charm and hospitality, and it is also a state without toll roads. This means that residents and visitors can travel throughout the state without having to stop and pay tolls.
Whether you’re driving along the Mississippi River or exploring the historic sites in Natchez, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey without the burden of toll fees.
New Hampshire
New Hampshire is one of the states in the New England region that does not have any toll roads. Known for its stunning fall foliage and charming small towns, New Hampshire offers a picturesque backdrop for road trips.
Whether you’re driving through the White Mountains or exploring the quaint coastal towns, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of New Hampshire without any toll expenses.
South Carolina
South Carolina is another state that does not have any toll roads. Whether you’re traveling to the beautiful beaches of Myrtle Beach or exploring the historic city of Charleston, you can drive freely without the worry of toll fees.
The state’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable transportation allows residents and visitors to enjoy the many attractions South Carolina has to offer.
South Dakota
In South Dakota, you can explore iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park without encountering any toll roads. The state’s vast open spaces and scenic beauty can be enjoyed without the burden of toll fees.
Whether you’re embarking on a road trip through the Black Hills or visiting the historic town of Deadwood, South Dakota offers a toll-free journey for travelers.
Tennessee
Tennessee, home to the vibrant city of Nashville and the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, is another state without toll roads. Whether you’re driving along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway or exploring the musical heritage of Memphis, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of Tennessee without any additional toll expenses.
The state’s commitment to providing accessible transportation options allows visitors to fully experience all that Tennessee has to offer.
Vermont
Vermont, known for its charming small towns and picturesque landscapes, is a state without toll roads. Whether you’re exploring the stunning fall foliage along Route 100 or skiing in the Green Mountains, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Vermont without the burden of toll fees.
The state’s commitment to preserving its rural character allows residents and visitors to experience Vermont’s charm without any additional costs.
West Virginia
West Virginia, with its stunning mountainous landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities, is a state without toll roads. Whether you’re exploring the scenic byways of the New River Gorge or hiking through the Appalachian Mountains, you can enjoy the natural beauty of West Virginia without any toll fees.
The state’s commitment to providing accessible transportation options allows residents and visitors to fully experience all that West Virginia has to offer.
Wyoming
Wyoming, home to Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons, is another state without toll roads. Whether you’re driving along the iconic Beartooth Highway or exploring the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Wyoming without the burden of toll fees.
The state’s commitment to preserving its pristine landscapes allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the Cowboy State.
Background on Toll Roads in the US
History of Toll Roads
Toll roads have a long history in the United States. As far back as the late 1700s, private companies were building and operating toll roads and bridges to generate profit. The first major toll road was the Philadelphia and Lancaster Turnpike, opened in 1795 to connect Philadelphia with the inland areas around Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Throughout the 1800s, over 10,000 miles of private toll roads were constructed as the country expanded westward. However, by the early 1900s most toll roads were sold to state highway departments as the government began funding infrastructure through fuel taxes.
Current Toll Road Statistics
Today there are over 5,200 miles of toll roads, tunnels, and bridges in the United States, located mostly on the East and West Coasts and around major cities. Here are some key stats on current US toll roads:
- 35 states have at least one toll road or bridge
- Over 186 million toll transactions occur each day on US toll facilities
- The state with the most toll roads is Florida, with over 1,000 miles of tolled roadways and bridges
- The most expensive toll plaza is the westbound Brooklyn Battery Tunnel in New York City at $19.00 for a 2-axle vehicle
While fuel tax revenues have struggled to keep pace with infrastructure costs, tolling has helped fill funding gaps and provide options for travelers willing to pay more for less congested routes.
Electronic Toll Collection
In the last 30 years, electronic toll collection (ETC) has revolutionized toll payment. ETC systems use automated technology to deduct fares from drivers without requiring them to stop at toll booths. This has greatly improved traffic flow and efficiency.
The most common ETC system is E-ZPass, with over 40 million tags issued across 17 states. Here is a comparison of cash toll collection vs ETC:
| Cash Toll Collection | Electronic Toll Collection | |
|---|---|---|
| Average Payment Time | 8 seconds | 2-3 seconds |
| Average Speed Through Plaza | 15 mph | 30+ mph |
As technology continues to progress, tolling agencies are looking into options like all-electronic tolling, where cash payment is not accepted at all, further reducing congestion and pollution while improving convenience.
Considerations for Toll-Free Travel
When embarking on a road trip, it’s important to consider the potential tolls that may be encountered along the way. However, there are several states in the United States that do not have toll roads or bridges, providing a more budget-friendly option for travelers.
Here are some considerations to keep in mind for toll-free travel:
Plan Route Carefully
Planning your route is crucial when aiming to avoid tolls. Utilize navigation apps or websites that offer toll-free options for your chosen destination. These tools can provide alternative routes that bypass toll roads, ensuring a more cost-effective journey.
By taking the time to plan your route in advance, you can save money and enjoy a stress-free trip.
Research City and County Tolls
While some states may not have toll roads or bridges, it’s important to note that certain cities or counties within these states may still charge tolls. For example, within the state of Florida, Miami-Dade County operates a toll road system.
Therefore, it’s crucial to research and familiarize yourself with any potential tolls that may arise within specific areas, even in toll-free states. This will help you avoid any unexpected fees and keep your travel budget intact.
Factor in Tradeoffs
While opting for toll-free travel can save you money, it’s important to consider the tradeoffs that may come with it. Toll roads are often well-maintained and can provide a more efficient route, reducing travel time. Without toll roads, you may encounter longer travel times or less direct routes.
It’s essential to weigh the cost savings against the potential impact on your overall travel experience.
Remember, toll-free travel can be a great way to save money on your road trip. By carefully planning your route, researching potential tolls within cities or counties, and considering the tradeoffs, you can enjoy a more budget-friendly journey without compromising on the quality of your travel experience.
Tips for Saving Money on Tolls
Get an E-ZPass
One of the best ways to save money on tolls is by getting an E-ZPass. E-ZPass is an electronic toll collection system used in several states across the United States. With an E-ZPass, you can pay your tolls electronically without having to stop at a toll booth.
Not only does this save you time, but it can also save you money as many toll facilities offer discounted rates for E-ZPass users. In addition, some states even offer further discounts for frequent users.
So, if you frequently travel on toll roads or bridges, it’s definitely worth considering getting an E-ZPass.
Carpool When Possible
Another way to save money on tolls is by carpooling when possible. Many toll facilities offer discounted rates for vehicles with multiple occupants. By carpooling with others, you can split the cost of tolls and save money.
Additionally, carpool lanes are often available on toll roads, allowing you to bypass traffic and reach your destination faster. So, not only can carpooling save you money on tolls, but it can also save you time on your commute.
Avoid Peak Travel Times
Avoiding peak travel times is another way to save money on tolls. During peak hours, toll rates may be higher due to increased demand. By adjusting your travel schedule and avoiding these peak times, you can potentially save money on tolls.
Plan your trips during off-peak hours, such as early mornings or late evenings, when there is less traffic and toll rates are typically lower. Not only will this help you save money, but it can also make for a more enjoyable and stress-free journey.
By following these tips, you can save money on tolls and make your travels more affordable. Remember to always check the official websites of toll facilities for the most up-to-date information on toll rates and discounts.
Conclusion
While a handful of states offer toll-free highways, keep in mind that some cities and counties may still charge their own local tolls even if the state does not. Carefully researching your entire planned route is the best way to avoid surprises from tolls on your road trip.
With smart planning, you can minimize or even eliminate toll road charges.
