The cost to charge an electric car varies significantly, but for most Americans, charging at home is the most affordable option, typically costing between $10 to $25 for a full charge that provides 200-300 miles of range. The final price depends entirely on your local electricity rates and the car's battery size. Public charging, especially DC fast charging, can cost two to three times more.
The primary factor is your electricity rate, measured in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The national average in the U.S. is around 16 cents/kWh. To calculate the cost, you need your car's battery capacity (e.g., 75 kWh) and your electricity rate. For a 75 kWh battery at 16 cents/kWh, a full charge costs about $12.00 (75 kWh x $0.16). However, most people don't charge from completely empty to full; a more common 80% charge would cost around $9.60.
Home vs. Public Charging Costs
| Charging Type | Typical Cost per kWh | Cost for 250 miles of Range (approx. 75 kWh) | Key Considerations |
|---|
| Home Charging (Off-Peak) | $0.11 - $0.15 | ~$8.25 - $11.25 | Cheapest option; requires Level 2 charger installation. |
| Home Charging (Standard Rate) | $0.14 - $0.20 | ~$10.50 - $15.00 | Most common scenario for homeowners. |
| Public Level 2 Charging | $0.20 - $0.30 | ~$15.00 - $22.50 | Found at malls/workplaces; often a flat session fee. |
| Public DC Fast Charging | $0.40 - $0.60+ | ~$30.00 - $45.00+ | Most expensive; ideal for long trips, not daily use. |
Beyond the electricity rate, your driving habits matter. If you drive 1,000 miles a month in a car that gets 3.3 miles/kWh, you'll use about 303 kWh. At the national average rate, that's roughly $48 per month. Compared to a gasoline car getting 30 MPG with gas at $3.50/gallon, the same mileage would cost about $117, highlighting the potential savings. To minimize costs, investigate time-of-use plans from your utility that offer lower rates overnight and avoid relying on expensive public fast chargers for daily needs.
