Embodiments in accordance with the invention provide a state-based channel selection method to improve the rate of successful transmissions for a multi-channel wireless network. Channels are monitored for performance, and, based upon performance, are placed in channel state vectors having increasing levels of desirability. The higher the state vector in which a channel is placed, the more desirable the channel is considered for selection. The channel in the highest state vector is considered for selection first. A channel not in the highest desirable state vector is eligible for selection when a channel is unavailable from higher desirable state vectors. Channels not in the highest desirable state vector, but also not in the lowest undesirable state vector, are monitored for improvement to move into higher desirable state vectors as they improve.