The cost to charge an electric vehicle (EV) varies depending on whether you charge at home or use public charging stations, the electricity rates in your area, and the size of your EV battery.
Home Charging Costs
- In the U.S., the average residential electricity rate is about $0.16 per kWh in 2025, but it varies by state (from around $0.11 to $0.41 per kWh).
- For a typical EV with a 40 kWh battery, a full charge at home costs roughly $6.00 to $6.40 (40 kWh × $0.16/kWh = $6.40).
- Monthly charging costs depend on driving habits; for example, driving 1,000 miles per month in an EV with 3 miles per kWh efficiency at $0.1694/kWh costs about $56.47 monthly.
- Some specialized EV home tariffs can reduce costs significantly, with rates as low as 7p/kWh in the UK, which can cut charging costs by up to two-thirds compared to standard rates
Public Charging Costs
- Public Level 2 chargers typically cost between $1 and $5 per hour, or about $0.20 to $0.25 per kWh. Charging a 40 kWh battery at such stations costs around $8 to $10.
- Fast DC public chargers cost more, roughly $0.40 to $0.60 per kWh, making a full charge cost between $16 and $24 for a 40 kWh battery.
- Public charging can be 2-3 times more expensive than home charging. For example, a 100 kWh battery might cost $20 at $0.20/kWh at home but only $11.70 when charged at a public station charging $2.25 per hour for 5.2 hours (due to charging speed differences)
Summary Table
Charging Type| Cost per kWh| Cost to Fully Charge 40 kWh Battery| Notes
---|---|---|---
Home Charging| ~$0.16 (avg US)| $6.00 - $6.40| Cheapest option, varies by
state
Public Level 2| $0.20 - $0.25| $8 - $10| Slower, more expensive
Public Fast DC| $0.40 - $0.60| $16 - $24| Fastest, most expensive
Road Trip Charging
- On road trips, charging costs range from $10 to $30 per session depending on charger type and location, often higher than home charging
In conclusion, charging an EV at home is generally the most cost-effective, averaging around $6 to $8 for a full charge of a typical 40 kWh battery, while public charging can cost two to three times more depending on charger speed and location
