The cost to charge an electric car varies significantly depending on several factors, including where you charge (at home vs. public charging stations), your electricity rates, the size of your car's battery, and even your geographic location. For at-home charging, the cost is primarily determined by your local electricity prices.
Understanding EV Charging Costs
Electric vehicle (EV) charging costs are measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Just as gasoline is priced per gallon, electricity is priced per kWh. The larger your car's battery and the higher your local electricity rate, the more it will cost to fully charge your vehicle.
At-Home Charging Costs by State
Charging an EV at home is typically the most economical option. The cost to fully charge an average electric car battery can vary significantly by state due to differing electricity rates. Here are some examples of the average cost to charge an EV at home in select states:
| State | Rank (by cost) | Average Cost to Charge an Average Battery |
|---|---|---|
| California | 49 | $23.10 |
| Colorado | 30 | $11.46 |
| Connecticut | 50 | $24.10 |
| Delaware | 35 | $12.18 |
As shown, states with higher electricity rates, like Connecticut and California, have significantly higher average costs for charging an EV at home compared to states like Colorado or Delaware.
Factors Influencing Charging Costs
- Electricity Rates: These vary widely by state, utility provider, and even time of day (some areas offer off-peak rates for lower costs).
- Battery Size: A larger battery (e.g., 80 kWh vs. 40 kWh) will require more electricity to fully charge, thus costing more.
- Charging Level:
- Level 1 (Standard Wall Outlet): Slowest, but uses your home electricity rate.
- Level 2 (240V Charger): Faster at-home charging, still uses your home rate.
- DC Fast Charging (Public Stations): Fastest, but often significantly more expensive, sometimes priced per minute or per session rather than per kWh.
- Public Charging Networks:
- Free Chargers: Available at some workplaces, hotels, or retail locations as an amenity.
- Paid Public Chargers: Operated by networks like Electrify America, ChargePoint, or EVgo. Prices can vary greatly and may include subscription fees or per-minute/per-kWh rates. DC fast charging is almost always the most expensive option.
While at-home charging offers predictable and often lower costs, public charging provides convenience, especially for longer trips. Understanding these variables can help EV owners estimate and manage their charging expenses effectively.
