The Most Dangerous Drug in Each U.S. State (Interactive Map)

Summary

Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids were the most deadly drugs in the vast majority of U.S. states in 2022.
Methamphetamine was the top cause of overdose deaths in a smaller number of states, including Hawaii, Nevada, Utah, and South Dakota.
States with the highest overdose death rates relative to the national average include West Virginia, Tennessee, Delaware, and New Mexico.
States with the lowest relative death rates include South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, and Texas.
Northridge Addiction Treatment Center offers a peaceful, private setting in California’s San Fernando Valley, with compassionate staff—many in recovery themselves—and personalized treatment plans for those ready to start healing.

Every state has been affected by the overdose crisis—but not always in the same way. While synthetic opioids like fentanyl have driven deaths in many areas, other drugs like methamphetamine remain the leading cause in several states.

This interactive map reveals the deadliest drug in each state based on 2022 overdose data. It also shows how each state’s overdose death rate compares to the national average. Use it to explore regional trends and better understand how addiction impacts communities across the country. Then contact NATC to learn more about getting help for yourself or someone you love.

How to Use This Map

Hover your mouse over any state to see:

The most dangerous drug based on the most recently available overdose death data (2022)
The percentage of overdose deaths linked to that drug
Whether the state’s overdose death rate is higher or lower than the national average

Each state will appear in red or blue depending on whether its death rate is above (red) or below (blue) the U.S. national average.

Map Info

All data sourced from: https://usafacts.org/answers/how-many-drug-overdose-deaths-happen-every-year-in-the-us/country/united-states/

Most Dangerous Drug by U.S. State (2022)

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr Courtney Scott, MD

Dr. Scott is a distinguished physician recognized for his contributions to psychology, internal medicine, and addiction treatment. He has received numerous accolades, including the AFAM/LMKU Kenneth Award for Scholarly Achievements in Psychology and multiple honors from the Keck School of Medicine at USC. His research has earned recognition from institutions such as the African American A-HeFT, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, and studies focused on pediatric leukemia outcomes. Board-eligible in Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Addiction Medicine, Dr. Scott has over a decade of experience in behavioral health. He leads medical teams with a focus on excellence in care and has authored several publications on addiction and mental health. Deeply committed to his patients’ long-term recovery, Dr. Scott continues to advance the field through research, education, and advocacy.