Birmingham has been named the second most stressful city to drive in the UK, according to the 2026 UK Driving Wellness Index from Kia. The study analysed 14 major UK cities, scoring them on commute times, congestion levels, EV charger availability, road safety, and proximity to scenic routes. Liverpool took the top spot as the most stressful, while Brighton was crowned the most calming city for motorists.
Why Birmingham ranks so high for driving stress
The index found Birmingham was challenged by the lowest road safety score of all cities analysed and limited access to scenic routes. Although EV infrastructure and commute times were moderate, the overall driving environment was deemed less conducive to relaxed, calm journeys.
The research comes as driving is considered a relaxing pastime for five million Brits, but the findings suggest that the experience varies significantly depending on location. The index aims to identify places that offer the smoothest journeys and the greatest potential to support mental wellbeing.
Expert insight into the psychology of driving alone
Sarah Jeffries, Mental Health Expert and Psychologist at Mental Health First Aid Course, explained the potential benefits of solo driving. “Being alone in the car lessens social expectations, which can result in a decrease in stress hormones and a reset of the brain,” she said.
“Driving alone frequently turns out to be the time for emotional processing: people play out conversations again, consider a decision, or let out their feelings through music, all done silently without the fear of being judged. Little by little, this independent experience is likely to bolster one’s feelings of competence and self-trust, for each trip serves as a reminder that one can handle responsibility alone.”
The three least calm cities for driving
Liverpool, Birmingham and Bristol were ranked as the least calm cities for driving in the index. Liverpool, at the bottom of the ranking, experiences slower driving times, fewer accessible scenic routes and below-average road safety. Even with a reasonably strong EV infrastructure score, the combination of these factors results in a more mentally demanding driving environment.
Bristol, placed near the bottom, has the weakest EV infrastructure in the index and a below-average road safety score, both of which can make driving feel more demanding. Commute times and scenic access are moderate, but not enough to outweigh the pressures caused by limited charging points and higher collision rates.
The three calmest cities for driving
Brighton takes the top spot as the UK’s calmest city for motorists, offering quick journey times, strong EV charger availability and easy access to both coastal and countryside routes. Together, these create a smoother, more predictable driving experience and help make everyday travel feel relaxed and stress free.
Newcastle is ranked second, benefiting from the lowest congestion levels and fastest driving times of all locations in the index. Consistently steady traffic flow and strong road safety performance contribute to a calm, controlled experience on the roads, even with comparatively fewer EV chargers. Cardiff completes the top three, standing out for its high road safety score and steady, manageable commute times. Its closeness to scenic coastal routes and the Brecon Beacons gives drivers quick access to peaceful landscapes, adding to the overall sense of calm behind the wheel.
