MYTHBUSTING

On Average, It Costs $10–$15 to “Fill Up” an EV to a Full Charge

March 4, 2025

Charging an EV at home typically costs between $10 and $15 for a full charge.
Public fast charging can cost $10 to $30, depending on speed and location.
Adding 100 miles of range to an EV can cost as little as $2.80, much cheaper than gasoline.

The cost to charge an EV largely depends on your electricity rate and the vehicle’s battery capacity. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average U.S. household electricity rate is about 16.26 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). So, charging a 66 kWh battery (like that of a Chevrolet Bolt EV) would cost approximately $10.73.

Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning test drive at Electrify Expo Long Beach

Home Charging is Your Wallet’s Best Friend

Charging at home is typically the most economical option. Edmunds notes that at the national average electricity rate, it costs about $11 to charge a 65 kWh battery using a Level 2 charger.

EV Charging Cost vs Gasoline Cost (Per 100 Miles) — _{Chart comparing EV home charging, EV public charging, and gasoline car costs per 100 miles, showing EV home charging as the cheapest.}

This means you can wake up every morning to a “full tank” without breaking the bank.

Public EV Charging is Convenience at a Premium

While public charging stations offer convenience, especially on long trips, they often come at a higher cost. Car and Driver reports that using a DC fast charger can cost between $10 and $30 to charge your EV, depending on the charger’s speed and your vehicle’s capacity.

EV Charging Cost by Charging Method — _{Chart comparing EV charging costs by method, showing Home Level 2 as the cheapest and DC Fast Charging as the most expensive.}

So, while it’s quicker, it’s also pricier.

Comparing to Gasoline Vehicles

Let’s put this into perspective. According to NerdWallet, adding 100 miles of range to an EV costs between $2.80 and $30, depending on various factors.

In contrast, fueling a gasoline car for the same distance can be more expensive, especially with fluctuating gas prices. This makes EVs not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective.

EV Cost Savings Over Time Compared to Gasoline Cars — _{Chart comparing EV charging costs and gasoline fuel costs over 10 years, showing EVs as significantly cheaper over time.}

Factors Influencing Charging Costs

Several elements can affect your EV charging expenses:

Electricity Rates: These vary by location and provider.
Charging Speed: Faster chargers often cost more.
Time of Use: Some utilities offer lower rates during off-peak hours.

Bar chart showing electricity cost per kWh in different states, with California having the highest rate. — _{Chart showing electricity cost per kWh in different states, with California having the highest rate.}

Chart showing EV charging cost increasing with battery size, indicating a linear relationship. — _{Chart showing electricity cost per kWh in different states, with California having the highest rate.}

EV Full Charge Costs Just $10-$15 at Home

Fully charging an EV typically costs between $10 and $15, especially when charging at home. This affordability, combined with environmental benefits, makes EVs an attractive option for many drivers.