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Charging Cost Calculator
Find out how much it costs to charge your EV at home, how long it takes, and how much you save compared to gas.
1. Your EV
20%
80%
2. Charger & Electricity
This Charge Session
36.0
kWh needed
4 hr 41 min
Charge time
$5.76
Total cost
126
Miles added
Monthly Estimate (1,000 mi)
$46
EV / month
$125
Gas / month
$79
You save
That is $951 in savings per year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 home charging?
Level 1 uses a standard 120V outlet and delivers 3-5 miles of range per hour, adding roughly 40 miles overnight. Level 2 uses a 240V circuit and delivers 12-40 miles per hour, fully charging most EVs overnight. Level 2 is recommended for daily drivers.
How can off-peak electricity rates reduce my charging costs?
Many utilities offer time-of-use rates where electricity costs 30-60% less during off-peak hours, typically 9 PM to 6 AM. Most smart chargers can schedule charging to start automatically during these cheaper windows, significantly reducing your monthly costs.
Can I charge my EV with solar panels?
Yes. If you have a home solar system, you can charge your EV during peak production hours for near-zero cost. A typical 7kW solar array can produce enough energy to charge about 25-30 miles of range per hour of direct sunlight, covering most daily commutes.
How much does it cost to install a Level 2 home charger?
The charger itself costs between $300 and $700 for most models. Installation by a licensed electrician typically runs $200 to $1,000 depending on your electrical panel capacity and the distance from the panel to the charging location. Federal tax credits may offset some costs.
Is it cheaper to charge at home or at a public station?
Home charging is almost always cheaper. The average US electricity rate is around 16 cents per kWh, while DC fast chargers at public stations often charge 30-50 cents per kWh. Home charging can save you 50-70% compared to public fast charging.