Rajan Wilcox
Electric vehicle (EV) ownership has many financial benefits, from skipping trips to the pump to lower maintenance costs. However, the cost of electricity varies by region, and public charging stations can be expensive. So, how much does it cost to 'fill up' an EV?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of fueling an electric car per year | $485 (based on a 2018 study) |
| Cost of fueling a gas-powered car per year | $1,117 (based on a 2018 study) |
| Cost of fueling an EV at home | $59.05 |
| Average price of gas | $3.16 per gallon |
| Cost of filling a 12-gallon gas tank | $37.92 |
| Cost of fueling an EV with a DC fast charger at a public charging station | $169 |
| Cost of fueling a gasoline car for a 1,401-mile journey | $142 |
| Cost of fueling an EV for a 1,401-mile journey | $41 |
| Cost of fueling an EV for a 1,401-mile journey with a Level 3 charger | $169 |
| Average miles traveled by a driver per year | 14,263 miles |
| Cost of electricity | Varies by region, time of year, and time of day |
| Fuel costs of EVs vs. gas cars | Vary by state |
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What You'll Learn
- Electric vs. gas cars: EVs are cheaper to refuel in all 50 states
- Charging at home is more affordable than public charging stations
- The cost of electricity varies by region, time of year, and time of day
- EVs have lower maintenance costs and require less frequent repairs
- The efficiency of an EV battery impacts the cost of charging
Electric vs. gas cars: EVs are cheaper to refuel in all 50 states
Electric vehicles (EVs) are generally cheaper to refuel than gasoline cars in all 50 states in the US. However, the cost of refueling an EV depends on various factors, including the type of charger, road taxes, rebates, battery efficiency, and electricity rates, which vary by state and time of day.
The cost of refueling an EV is often compared to that of a gasoline vehicle. While the average EV sells for $4,600 more than the median gasoline car, EVs are generally cheaper to refuel and maintain in the long run. A 2018 study by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute found that the average cost to fuel an electric car was $485 a year, compared to $1,117 for a gas-powered vehicle. Similarly, a 2020 Consumer Reports study showed that EV drivers spend about 60% less on fuel costs annually than drivers of gas-powered cars.
The savings associated with EVs are influenced by their higher efficiency. According to real-world data, current EVs are 2.6 to 4.8 times more efficient at traveling a mile than gasoline internal combustion engines. This efficiency results in significant savings for EV owners, especially when combined with the stability and predictability of electricity prices, which are regulated at the state or local level.
However, it is important to note that charging costs for EVs can be challenging to determine. While most utilities offer lower rates during off-peak hours, allowing EV owners to schedule charging overnight and save up to 30% per charge, public charging stations, especially high-speed DC fast chargers, tend to be more expensive than charging at home. Additionally, many charging stations charge per minute instead of per kilowatt-hour, making it difficult for EV owners to estimate their refueling costs accurately.
In conclusion, while the upfront cost of an EV may be higher, the total cost of ownership, including maintenance, fuel, and other expenses over the vehicle's lifetime, is generally lower for EVs than gasoline cars. The refueling costs for EVs are typically lower than those for gasoline vehicles in all 50 states, and the expansion of renewable energy sources and improvements in vehicle efficiency are expected to further reduce these costs in the future.
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Charging at home is more affordable than public charging stations
Electric vehicle (EV) owners who rely on at-home charging tend to save more money compared to those who use public charging stations. This is because electricity rates for at-home charging are often significantly cheaper than those at public charging stations.
Public charging stations usually come with a fee, and pricing can vary depending on location, charging network, and the type of charger used. Local energy prices and regulations also impact the cost of charging at public stations. While some public charging stations are free, these stations often have long lines and frequent outages, making them an unreliable option.
On the other hand, at-home charging only requires you to pay for the electricity used, which can be significantly cheaper per kWh than public charging. Additionally, many utilities offer lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, allowing EV owners to schedule charging overnight when rates are lower, potentially saving up to 30% per charge.
The convenience of charging at home also contributes to the affordability of at-home charging compared to public charging stations. With at-home charging, EV owners can simply plug in their vehicles overnight and wake up to a fully charged battery, eliminating the need to search for public charging stations or wait for their turn to charge.
While installing a home charging station requires an initial investment in charging equipment and installation, this cost can be offset by incentives offered by some governments and utility companies. Additionally, installing a home charging station can enhance the property's value, making it more appealing to potential buyers who own electric vehicles.
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The cost of electricity varies by region, time of year, and time of day
The cost of electricity varies depending on a variety of factors. For instance, the cost of electricity differs by region, with Washington state offering the highest savings for EV owners at $14,480 over the life of the vehicle, while in Hawaii, higher electricity costs mean spending $2,494 more. The cost of electricity also varies depending on the time of year and the time of day. For example, most utilities offer lower rates during off-peak hours, and charging an electric vehicle overnight can save up to 30% per charge. Additionally, electricity rates can be influenced by the source of electricity generation, such as fossil fuels, nuclear energy, or renewable energy sources.
The cost of refueling an electric vehicle compared to a gasoline vehicle is a complex calculation that depends on various assumptions, including geography and charging behavior. However, in general, it is cheaper for Americans to fill up with electricity, especially in regions with low electricity rates and high gas prices, such as the Pacific Northwest. The specific vehicle model and its efficiency also play a role in the overall refueling costs.
Public charging stations, especially high-speed DC fast chargers, tend to be more expensive than charging at home. The price of electricity at public charging stations can vary, with some stations charging a fixed hourly rate, while others charge based on the amount of electricity transferred to the EV. Charging networks often offer membership programs to minimize recharge costs for those who cannot regularly charge their vehicles at home.
The cost of electricity for electric vehicles is also influenced by the level of the charger. Level 1 chargers are standard 120V outlets that can add around 32 miles of range overnight, while Level 2 chargers are typically 240-volt and can cost a fixed hourly rate or charge based on electricity usage. Level 3 or DC Fast Chargers are the most expensive option and are often found at public charging stations.
Overall, the cost of electricity varies by region, time of year, and time of day, and these factors play a significant role in the overall refueling costs for electric vehicles compared to their gasoline counterparts.
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EVs have lower maintenance costs and require less frequent repairs
The cost of fuelling an electric vehicle depends on various factors, such as the vehicle's kilowatt-hour (kWh/100) mileage rate, electricity rates, charging location, and vehicle model. For example, charging at home during off-peak hours can result in significant savings, while public charging stations, especially high-speed DC fast chargers, tend to be more expensive.
While the upfront cost of purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) may be higher, EVs offer significant long-term savings due to their lower maintenance and repair requirements. EVs have fewer moving parts and do not require oil changes or spark plug replacements, resulting in lower maintenance costs. Additionally, EVs have a unique regenerative braking system that recovers energy normally lost during braking, reducing the need for brake pad replacements.
According to Consumer Reports, EV and plug-in hybrid drivers pay, on average, half as much as gasoline-powered car owners in repair and maintenance costs. This equates to an average savings of $4,600 over the vehicle's lifetime. Furthermore, EVs have a lower centre of gravity, making them more stable and less likely to roll over.
While battery replacement outside of the warranty period can be expensive, battery prices are expected to decline as technology improves and production volumes increase. Manufacturers are also offering longer warranties, reflecting their confidence in the durability of EVs.
In terms of fuelling costs, EVs are generally cheaper to run than gasoline vehicles. A 2018 study found that the average annual fuelling cost for an electric car was $485, compared to $1,117 for a gas-powered car. This advantage is more pronounced in states with low electricity rates and high gas prices, such as Washington, where an EV owner can save up to $14,480 over the vehicle's lifetime. However, in states with higher electricity costs, such as Hawai'i, the savings may be reduced.
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The efficiency of an EV battery impacts the cost of charging
The cost of charging an electric vehicle (EV) depends on a variety of factors, including the efficiency of the EV battery, where you charge it, and the local utility rates.
The efficiency of an EV battery is a crucial factor in determining the cost of charging. The size of the battery pack directly influences charging costs, as larger battery capacities require more electricity for a full charge. Additionally, the charging efficiency, which includes the efficiency of the EV charging system and any losses during charging, also impacts the overall electricity consumption. By maximizing charging efficiency, EV owners can minimize their charging costs.
To estimate the cost of charging, it is essential to consider the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from your electricity provider and understand the charging efficiency of your EV. Other factors such as battery capacity and charging speed will determine the duration of charging sessions and ultimately impact the cost.
Charging an EV at home is generally more cost-effective than using public charging stations, especially high-speed DC fast chargers, which tend to be more expensive. Most utilities offer lower rates during off-peak hours, and many EVs allow scheduling charging during these periods, potentially saving up to 30% per charge. Additionally, home charging offers the convenience of utilizing residential electricity rates.
The efficiency of an EV battery also contributes to overall cost savings compared to gasoline vehicles. EVs are more energy-efficient, utilizing 87%-91% of the energy from the battery for propulsion, while gasoline vehicles only convert about 16%-25% of energy from gasoline into movement. This higher efficiency means that EVs require less energy to travel the same distance as a gasoline vehicle, resulting in lower fuel costs.
In summary, the efficiency of an EV battery significantly impacts the cost of charging. By maximizing charging efficiency, choosing cost-effective charging options, and taking advantage of residential rates, EV owners can minimize charging costs and benefit from the inherent energy efficiency of electric vehicles.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of refuelling an electric car varies depending on the region, the time of year, and the time of day. In 2025, the average price of gas was $3.16 per gallon. This means that filling up a 12-gallon gas tank costs around $37.92. On the other hand, charging an electric vehicle (EV) at home costs around $59.05. Public charging stations, especially high-speed DC fast chargers, tend to be more expensive than home charging.
A 2018 study found that the average cost to fuel an electric car was $485 a year, compared to $1,117 for a gas-powered vehicle. A 2020 study also showed that EV drivers spend about 60% less on fuel costs each year compared to drivers of gas-powered cars. In 2023, it was found that every EV model in every state is cheaper to fill up than a gas-powered vehicle.
To estimate your charging costs, multiply an EV's kilowatt-hour (kWh/100) mileage rate by your electricity rate (found on your monthly bill). This gives your cost per 100 miles. Multiply this by your monthly mileage to estimate the increase in your electricity bill.
Electric vehicles have lower maintenance costs than gas-powered cars. EVs do not require spark plugs or oil changes, and they have regenerative braking, which saves on brake pad replacements. However, they still require basic maintenance like service checks and tire rotations. Overall, EV maintenance and repair costs are about 40% lower than comparable gas vehicles.
