Is it cheaper to charge at home or at a public DC fast station?

Home Level 2 charging is typically 3–5× cheaper per kWh than public DC fast. National 2026 averages: home $0.17/kWh, public DC fast $0.45–0.60/kWh. The only exceptions are TOU off-peak rates and free workplace charging.

Free tool · 2026 rates

EV charging cost calculator

Pick your EV, your annual miles and your home rate. See the real cost to charge — at home, at a public DC fast station, or a Tesla Supercharger.

Your driving

Defaults reflect a typical US driver (~12,500 mi/yr) on a Model Y.

EV model

Efficiency (kWh per mile) EPA combined rating, real-world tends to be ~10% higher.

Annual miles driven

Rates & mix

Home electricity (¢/kWh)

Public DC fast (¢/kWh) EVgo / Electrify America 2026 average. Tesla Supercharger 36–55¢ depending on station.

% charged at home

0%85%100%

Charging losses (%) Energy paid for ≠ energy stored. Level 2: ~10%. DC fast: ~5–8%.

Total charging cost

Blended home + public rate.

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Yearly cost to charge this EV

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Cost per mile

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Equivalent gas MPG to match

Breakdown

Total kWh purchased (incl. losses) —

Cost at home —

Cost at public DC fast —

Vs. comparable gasoline car —

Gas comparison: assumes a 32 MPG gas equivalent at $3.45/gal national average (May 2026 EIA). Adjust the figures in the JS if your gas price differs significantly.

EV efficiency reference (2026 models)

Model	kWh / mile	Battery (kWh)	EPA range

Frequently asked questions

Is it cheaper to charge at home or DC fast?

Home Level 2 is 3–5× cheaper per kWh than public DC fast on national 2026 averages (home $0.175, DC fast $0.48). Exceptions: TOU off-peak (some utilities $0.04–0.08/kWh between 11 PM and 6 AM) and free workplace charging.

How many kWh per mile does an EV use?

Sedans 0.24–0.28, midsize SUVs 0.30–0.34, pickups 0.42–0.50. Cold weather adds 15–35 % to consumption.

Should I install Level 2 charging at home?

Yes if you drive over 30 mi/day. Hardware $400–$700, install $800–$2,500. Federal Section 30C credit (30%, capped at $1,000 residential) was eliminated July 2025 by OBBBA; some utilities still rebate.