What is the Cost of Charging an Electric Car

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has brought about a crucial question for drivers: What is the cost of charging an electric car​?

 

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has brought about a crucial question for drivers: What is the cost of charging an electric car​? While it might be easy to compare the price per gallon for gas cars, calculating EV charging costs is less straightforward. On average, EV drivers pay around $0.05 per mile, but actual costs vary depending on where and how you charge.

 

Charging at home, especially overnight, is typically the most cost-effective method, while public charging stations often come with higher fees. Though gas prices fluctuate and electricity rates differ by region, many EV owners find that charging generally costs less per month than filling up a traditional gas tank. By understanding the differences between home and public charging, and comparing these costs to gasoline, you’ll get a clearer picture of what it truly takes to keep an EV on the road.

 

What Is the Average Cost of Charging an Electric Car​?

 

To calculate the cost of charging an EV, two key factors come into play: the amount of electricity needed to charge the battery and the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from your utility. Generally, charging an EV costs around $0.05 per mile, but this figure can vary significantly based on factors such as charger type, location, and time of day.

 

A common estimate is that an electric car averages three to four miles per kWh. To determine your monthly charging cost, divide your monthly mileage by three to get the approximate kWh usage, then multiply by your local kWh rate. For example, if you drive 1,200 miles monthly, you'd use about 400 kWh. With an average rate of 16.88 cents per kWh in the U.S., this translates to around $68 per month—typically less than the cost of gasoline for the same distance.

 

 

How much does it cost to charge a Tesla Model 3?

 

EV Make And Model	Energy Required To Charge Battery	Cost To Charge Battery	Range Of Distance	Charging Cost Per Mile
Tesla Model 3 Standard	70 kWh	$11.33	272 miles	4.2 cents
Tesla Model 3 Long Range	88 kWh	$14.25	341 miles	4.2 cents
Tesla Model 3 Performance	94 kWh	$15.22	315 miles	4.8 cents

 

How much does it cost to charge a Nissan Leaf?

 

EV Make And Model	Energy Required To Charge Battery	Cost To Charge Battery	Range Of Distance	Charging Cost Per Mile
Nissan Leaf SV Plus	65 kWh	$10.52	212 miles	5 cents
Nissan Leaf S	45 kWh	$7.29	149 miles	4.9 cents

 

How much does it cost to charge an Audi Q4 e-tron ?

 

EV Make And Model	Energy Required To Charge Battery	Cost To Charge Battery	Range Of Distance	Charging Cost Per Mile
Audi Q4 e-tron	86 kWh	$13.93	265 miles	5.3 cents
Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron	86 kWh	$13.92	242 miles	5.8 cents

 

How much does it cost to charge a Hyundai IONIQ 5?

 

EV Make And Model	Energy Required To Charge Battery	Cost To Charge Battery	Range Of Distance	Charging Cost Per Mile
Hyundai IONIQ 5 SEL	88 kWh	$14.25	303 miles	4.7 cents
Hyundai IONIQ 5 SE Standard Range	66 kWh	$10.69	220 miles	4.9 cents

 

Is Cost of charging an electric car vs gas​?

 

When comparing the costs of EV charging versus traditional gas refueling, there’s a clear advantage to electric vehicles, particularly in terms of per-mile expenses. Based on recent data, it costs around $0.05 per mile to charge an EV, while fueling a gas-powered vehicle averages around $0.13 per mile. Let's break down these differences to better understand how each option impacts drivers financially.

 

Gasoline Costs

 

As of early 2024, average gas prices sit at approximately $3.28 per gallon for regular and $4.06 per gallon for premium. For a 12-gallon tank, this means filling up with regular gas costs about $39, and a vehicle that achieves 30 miles per gallon can travel around 360 miles per tank. If you drive about 1,200 miles each month, you’d need to refuel three times, bringing your monthly cost to about $117.

 

However, gasoline costs vary with fuel efficiency and driving conditions. More city driving or a lower mpg rating could significantly increase monthly gas expenses. Given this variability, gas costs can quickly add up, especially in areas with high fuel prices.

 

EV Charging Costs

 

EVs tend to offer more stable and lower operating costs. Charging an EV generally costs around $0.05 per mile. If you drive the same 1,200 miles each month, you’re looking at around $60 in charging expenses. Plus, for those who can charge at home, the costs can be even lower depending on local electricity rates, which are often less volatile than gas prices.

 

How much does it cost to fuel popular gas-powered vehicles?

 

Make And Model	Fuel Tank Capacity	Miles Per Gallon (MPG) - Combined City/higway	Cost To Fill Up Tank	Range Of Distance	Fueling Cost Per Mile
Porsche Macan*	19.8 gallons	21 MPG	$80.39	416 miles	19.3 cents
Kia Telluride AWD	18.8 gallons	22 MPG	$61.66	414 miles	14.9 cents
Honda Civic LX	12.4 gallons	36 MPG	$40.67	434 miles	9.4 cents
Toyota Corolla Hatchback	13.2 gallons	35 MPG	$43.30	462 miles	9.4 cents

 

Cost per charge/tank for popular EVs and comparable gas vehicles
 

Vehicle Category	EV Charging Cost Per Mile	Gas Fueling Cost Per Mile
Compact hatchback	Nissan Leaf: 4.9 cents	Toyota Corolla Hatchback: 9.4 cents
Luxury crossover SUV	Audi Q4 e-tron: 5.3 cents	Porsche Macan: 19.3 cents
Compact sedan	Tesla Model 3: 4.2 cents	Honda Civic LX: 9.4 cents
Mid-size SUV	Hyundai IONIQ 5: 5.7 cents	Kia Telluride AWD: 14.9 cents

 

How much does it cost of charging an electric car at home​?

 

The cost of charging an electric vehicle (EV) at home can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here’s a breakdown of what affects your home charging costs and tips to potentially lower your expenses.

 

1. Your Electricity Source

 

If you’re relying on grid-produced electricity, your costs will likely be higher than if you were charging with a home solar system. Many EV owners are now looking into renewable energy options to power their homes and EVs more cost-effectively. Programs like community solar, community choice aggregation (CCA), or green power plans (GPP) can reduce overall electricity costs by giving you access to renewable energy sources at lower rates. Exploring these options could save you significantly on EV charging costs over time.

 

2. Your EV’s Battery Size

 

The size of your EV’s battery directly impacts how much it costs to charge it. Bigger batteries require more energy to fully charge, leading to higher costs per charge. However, a larger battery also usually means a longer range, which can result in a lower cost per mile. For instance, fully charging a Nissan Leaf costs less than a Tesla Model 3, but since the Leaf has a shorter range, it actually ends up being more expensive per mile driven.

 

3. The Type of EV Charger You Use

 

The efficiency of your charging setup affects your overall costs as well. EV chargers are divided into three levels:

 

Level 1 (L1): This is a standard 120-volt outlet, and while it’s convenient for home use, it charges slowly and experiences some energy loss during the conversion from AC to DC.

Level 2 (L2): A 240-volt charger, typically installed at home, offers faster charging and less energy loss than Level 1.

Level 3 (L3): Also known as fast chargers, these 400+ volt chargers provide DC electricity directly to the battery, avoiding conversion losses. However, they are not typically used at home and may contribute to battery degradation if used frequently.

By opting for a Level 2 charger at home, you can charge faster and minimize energy losses from the AC-to-DC conversion.

 

4. Where You Live

 

Electricity rates can vary widely across the country. States in the Northeast and West typically have the highest rates, while many states in the Midwest and Southeast have lower costs. Additionally, climate plays a role: EVs charged in extreme heat or cold require more energy to maintain battery temperature, resulting in increased energy losses and higher costs.

 

5. When You Charge Your EV

 

In some areas, utilities implement time-of-use (TOU) rates that adjust based on demand. These rate structures generally charge more during peak demand periods, like afternoons on hot days, and less during off-peak times, like overnight. Charging your EV during off-peak hours can help you save, so if you have a flexible schedule, take advantage of these lower-cost hours.

 

Tips for Reducing Home Charging Costs

 

(1) Consider a Solar Installation: If feasible, using solar power can reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your EV charging costs long-term.

 

(2）Choose the Right Charger: Opt for a Level 2 charger to strike a balance between efficiency and energy loss.

 

(3) Monitor TOU Rates: Charging during off-peak hours can save you money if your utility provider offers a TOU rate structure.

 

(4) Battery Maintenance: Charge in moderate temperatures when possible, as extreme weather can increase energy usage and costs.

 

Each of these factors can impact the cost of charging your EV at home, but with the right setup and strategies, you can optimize your costs while enjoying the convenience and sustainability of an electric vehicle.
 

Where you live directly impacts your electric bill. People living in Vermont pay almost 22 cents per kWh of energy use, double the cost in Utah (about 11 cents per kWh).

 

STATE	RANK	AVG. COST RESIDENTIAL ELECTRICITY (CENTS/kWh)	COST TO CHARGE SMALLER BATTERY	COST TO CHARGE AVERAGE BATTERY	COST TO CHARGE LARGER BATTERY
New Jersey	40	18.45	$6.98	$13.47	$19.74
New Mexico	17	14.29	$5.37	$10.43	$15.29
New York	44	22.97	$9.14	$16.77	$24.58
North Carolina	24	14.98	$5.10	$10.94	$16.03
North Dakota	2	11.33	$3.85	$8.27	$12.12
Ohio	34	16.75	$6.08	$12.23	$17.92
Oklahoma	8	12.46	$4.35	$9.10	$13.33
Oregon	19	14.6	$5.40	$10.66	$15.62
Pennsylvania	38	17.95	$6.78	$13.10	$19.21
Rhode Island	47	27.93	$12.18	$20.39	$29.89
South Carolina	23	14.9	$5.28	$10.88	$15.94
South Dakota	13	12.84	$4.36	$9.37	$13.74
Tennessee	12	12.76	$4.70	$9.31	$13.65
Texas	26	15.02	$5.56	$10.96	$16.07
Utah	1	11.07	$4.23	$8.08	$11.84
Vermont	43	21.85	$8.18	$15.95	$23.38
Virginia	25	14.99	$5.27	$10.94	$16.04
Washington	4	11.84	$4.33	$8.64	$12.67
West Virginia	30	15.56	$5.32	$11.36	$16.65
Wisconsin	35	17.31	$6.42	$12.64	$18.52
Wyoming	7	12.2	$4.24	$8.91	$13.05
Maine	42	20.47	$10.10	$14.94	$21.90
Maryland	37	17.85	$6.82	$13.03	$19.10
Massachusetts	48	29.5	$11.05	$21.54	$31.57
Michigan	41	19.23	$7.15	$14.04	$20.58
Minnesota	27	15.08	$5.48	$11.01	$16.14
Mississippi	20	14.64	$4.96	$10.69	$15.66
Missouri	9	12.52	$4.22	$9.14	$13.40
Montana	10	12.52	$4.67	$9.14	$13.40
Nebraska	5	11.85	$3.84	$8.65	$12.68
Nevada	32	16.59	$6.39	$12.11	$17.75
New Hampshire	45	23	$9.78	$16.79	$24.61
Alabama	31	15.85	$5.62	$11.57	$16.96
Alaska	46	24.89	$9.27	$18.17	$26.63
Arizona	28	15.24	$5.50	$11.13	$16.31
Arkansas	11	12.6	$4.38	$9.20	$13.48
California	50	34.26	$11.50	$25.01	$36.66
Colorado	22	14.77	$5.56	$10.78	$15.80
Connecticut	49	29.58	$10.69	$21.59	$31.65
Delaware	39	18.28	$6.06	$13.34	$19.56
Dist. of Columbia	36	17.85	$6.56	$13.03	$19.10
Florida	21	14.65	$5.77	$10.69	$15.68
Indiana	29	15.33	$5.36	$11.19	$16.40
Iowa	15	13.1	$4.62	$9.56	$14.02
Kansas	18	14.38	$5.09	$10.50	$15.39
Kentucky	14	13	$4.79	$9.49	$13.91
Louisiana	6	12.08	$4.22	$8.82	$12.93
Georgia	16	14.1	$4.81	$10.29	$15.09
Hawaii	51	45.19	$17.27	$32.99	$48.35
Idaho	3	11.45	$4.21	$8.36	$12.25
Illinois	33	16.68	$5.82	$12.18	$17.85
U.S. Average		16.88	$6.03	$12.32	$18.06

 

The chart above is based on the U.S. Energy Information Administration's average electricity rates for April 2024. EV battery sizes reflect the usable capacities listed by the Electric Vehicle Database, rounded to the nearest whole number. For example, the Nissan Leaf has a 39 kWh battery, the Ford Mustang Mach-E has a 73 kWh battery, and the Polestar 3 Long Range has a 107 kWh battery. Estimated charging costs are calculated by multiplying the average electricity rate in each state by the EVs’ usable battery capacities.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Charge Your EV at a Public Charging Station?

 

With the rapid expansion of EV charging infrastructure across the U.S., drivers now have more options than ever for powering up their electric vehicles on the go. Public EV chargers are typically Level 2 or Level 3, and costs can vary significantly depending on the type of charger, location, and specific provider.

 

1. Type of Charger:

 

(1) Level 2 Chargers: These are commonly found in shopping centers, workplaces, and parking garages. Level 2 chargers generally cost less, often ranging from free (for certain businesses) to an hourly or per kilowatt-hour (kWh) rate. Rates can vary widely based on location, with averages around $0.20 to $0.30 per kWh.

 

(2) Level 3 (DC Fast Chargers): These provide faster charging and are found along highways and busy urban areas. DC Fast Chargers are priced higher than Level 2, often ranging from $0.30 to $0.70 per kWh, though some premium locations may charge even more due to the convenience of rapid charging.

 

2. Location and Availability:

 

Certain workplaces or office buildings offer free charging to employees and visitors, allowing you to potentially cover your daily commute cost-free if you’re able to complete a full charge. By utilizing these free stations, you could cut down on the need to charge at home and save on electricity bills.

 

Some parking decks or metered spaces require additional fees on top of charging costs, so it’s important to factor in parking charges, especially in downtown areas where rates may be high.
Finding the Right Spot:

 

Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint make it easy to find charging locations, check real-time availability, and even see other drivers' experiences at a given charger. These platforms offer helpful insights on fees, charger status, and any recent issues, enabling you to plan ahead and potentially save money by finding the most cost-effective and convenient stations.

 

3. Average Costs and Considerations

 

Charging costs range widely, from free options at workplaces or public locations to around $10 to $30 per full charge at public Level 3 stations, depending on your EV’s battery size and the local rates. As a general rule, the cost per kWh is typically lower with Level 2 chargers, but for a quick charge on the go, Level 3 may be worth the investment.

 

With a little planning and the right resources, you can take advantage of both free and affordable public charging options to help manage the cost of keeping your EV charged and ready for the road.

 

Pros and cons of EV vs. gas-powered vehicles

 

EVs and traditional gas-powered vehicles will both get you where you need to go, but there are a few key ways they differ.

 

Pros	Cons
Not impacted by rising gas prices: With gas prices reaching an all-time high in recent years, an EV will save you from paying to fill up at the pump. You’ll still be impacted by changing electricity rates, but it’s usually much cheaper to fuel an EV than a gas-powered car.	Generally, have higher upfront costs: You may need to pay more upfront for an EV than a gas-powered vehicle (but it could still be less expensive in the long run). Tax incentives and rebates can considerably reduce your EV's sticker price.
May save you time on your commute: Many states have carpool or high occupancy vehicles (HOV) lanes that EVs qualify to use. So, you can hop in the carpool lane by yourself and avoid some traffic.	Don't usually travel as far: An EV's battery typically needs to be recharged before a similar gas-powered vehicle would need its gas tank refilled.
Increased energy efficiency: A higher percentage of energy used to fuel an EV converts to usable energy.	Take longer to "refuel": You're probably used to filling up your car's gas tank whenever it's empty. EVs generally require more planning. Even with the fastest Level 3 EV charger, you should expect charging to take about 15 minutes. If you have an EV charger installed at your home, you can charge while you sleep.
No direct release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere: If you're not powering your EV with clean energy, your electricity source may contribute to emissions (though still far less than a gas-powered vehicle).
Less maintenance: Since EVs don't have an internal combustion engine, the maintenance costs are often considerably lower.

 

FAQ:

 

Q: How far can I drive on a single charge?

 

A: Range depends on your EV model, driving habits, and conditions:

 

Most modern EVs have a range between 150 and 300 miles per charge. Higher-end models can exceed 300 miles on a single charge.

 

Highway driving, weather, and heavy loads may reduce the range, while city driving with regenerative braking can extend it.

 

Q: Can I charge my EV at home without special equipment?

 

A: Yes, you can use a standard 120V outlet (Level 1), but it will charge slowly. For faster home charging, a Level 2 charger (240V) can be installed by an electrician, reducing charging time by more than half.

 

Q: Does fast charging damage the battery?

 

A: Occasional use of DC Fast Charging is generally fine, but frequent fast charging can lead to slightly faster battery degradation over time. To prolong battery life, many manufacturers recommend using Level 2 charging for routine charging and reserving fast charging for long trips.

 

Q: How do I pay at a public charging station?

 

A: Payment methods vary by provider:

 

(1) Many stations accept payment through RFID cards or apps like ChargePoint, Electrify America, and EVgo.

 

(2) Some locations accept credit cards directly.

 

(3) Charging apps often allow you to load funds in advance, monitor usage, and see costs before starting a session.