Auto & Transport · Quick Answer
How much does it cost to charge an EV?
At the US average residential rate of $0.16/kWh, charging a typical EV (0.3 kWh/mile, 60 kWh battery) costs about $9.60 for a full charge, or about 5 cents per mile. That's roughly 1/3 the cost of gas at $3.50/gallon and 30 mpg.
The formula
Cost per charge = battery size (kWh) × electricity rate ($/kWh)
Cost per mile = (kWh/100 miles) × electricity rate / 100
Example: Tesla Model 3, charging at home
- Battery: 60 kWh usable
- Efficiency: ~25 kWh/100 miles
- Home rate: $0.16/kWh
- Full charge: 60 × $0.16 = $9.60
- Cost per mile: 25 × 0.16 / 100 = $0.04/mile
- Annual cost (12,000 miles): $480
EV vs gas comparison
At 30 mpg and $3.50/gallon gas, the same 12,000 miles costs $1,400, roughly 3x the EV cost.
Charging location cost comparison
| Location | Typical $/kWh | Full-charge cost (60 kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| Home (off-peak) | $0.10 | $6.00 |
| Home (average) | $0.16 | $9.60 |
| Home (CA peak) | $0.40 | $24.00 |
| Workplace / free | $0.00 | Free |
| Public L2 | $0.25-$0.35 | $15-$21 |
| DC Fast (Supercharger) | $0.40-$0.55 | $24-$33 |
Ways to cut EV charging cost
- Charge overnight on time-of-use plans
- Install a 240V Level 2 charger for efficiency
- Combine with rooftop solar
- Use workplace or free public charging where available
- Avoid DC fast chargers for routine charging (2-3x home cost)
Run the numbers
All calculators →EV Charging Cost Calculator
Calculate cost to charge your EV at home or public stations.
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