What does it actually cost to fill up in your garage? Home charging is usually cheaper than public DC fast charging—but the number depends on kWh from the meter, your $/kWh rate, and when you plug in.
Benefits
- Translates kWh per charge into dollars using your real utility rate.
- Clarifies Level 1 outlet vs. Level 2 wallbox—same math, different session length.
- Shows how off-peak scheduling changes monthly cost without changing miles driven.
How it works
- Note kWh added per session from your EV app, charger, or home energy monitor.
- Apply your electricity rate—off-peak overnight if your tariff has time-of-use blocks.
- Multiply by charges per week or month for a household fuel budget you can compare to gas.
FAQ
How much does it cost to charge an electric car at home?
Cost = kWh × $/kWh. A typical 50 kWh session at $0.15/kWh is about $7.50. Smaller top-ups (15–20 kWh) often run $2–4 at the same rate. Use delivered kWh from the wall for bill accuracy.
Is home charging cheaper than gas?
Often yes at residential rates—especially off-peak. Compare $/kWh × kWh per mile to $/gallon ÷ mpg for your vehicle. Local fuel and electricity prices, plus charging losses, determine the break-even.
Does Level 2 cost more per kWh than Level 1?
The utility rate is the same per kWh; Level 2 delivers energy faster, not at a higher $/kWh. Losses may differ slightly by equipment, but total cost still follows kWh drawn × rate.
Technical specifications
- Cost: session_$ = kWh_delivered × rate_$/kWh.
- kWh source: charger display, OEM app, or submeter preferred over pack SOC delta.
- TOU: run separate calculations for peak and off-peak blocks.
- Related: EV charge-time for hours per session at your charger kW.