Wattsolver - Calculate Your EV Savings
Compare electric vehicle charging costs vs gas prices. Find out how much you can save by switching to electric in your state.
Browse Electric VehiclesWhy Switch to Electric?
State-Specific Rates
We track electricity and gas prices across all 50 states + DC to give you the most accurate savings data.
Vehicle Efficiency
Calculations based on standardized vehicle efficiency ratings.
Gas Comparison
Estimate how much you could save compared to driving a similar gas-powered vehicle.
How It Works
We prioritize accuracy and transparency. Our electricity rates are sourced directly from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) and updated regularly. Gas prices are cross-referenced with AAA daily averages. We also factor in real-world vehicle efficiency (kWh/100mi) and battery capacity to ensure your savings estimates are realistic, not just theoretical.
Popular Comparisons
- Popular Vehicles in California
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Tesla Model Y Long Range AWDin California -
Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWDin California -
Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium (Ext. Range)in California -
Hyundai IONIQ 5 Long Range AWDin California -
Volkswagen ID.4 Proin California -
Kia EV6 Long Range RWDin California -
Ford F-150 Lightning (Ext. Range)in California -
Rivian R1T Dual-Motor (Large Pack)in California
- Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD in...
- AZArizonafor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
- CACaliforniafor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
- FLFloridafor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
- ILIllinoisfor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
- NJNew Jerseyfor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
- NYNew Yorkfor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
- TXTexasfor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
- WAWashingtonfor Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
Frequently Asked Questions
Is charging an EV cheaper than gas?
In most US states, yes. While electricity rates vary, the efficiency of electric motors typically costs 50-70% less per mile than an internal combustion engine vehicle. Our calculator helps you verify this for your specific location.
How to calculate cost per mile for EV?
To calculate cost per mile, divide your electricity rate ($/kWh) by the vehicle efficiency (miles/kWh). For example, if you pay $0.15/kWh and get 3.5 miles/kWh, your cost is approximately $0.04 per mile.
Do these calculations include public charging?
Our main calculator focuses on home charging rates (Level 1 & 2), which accounts for over 80% of all EV charging. Public DC fast charging is typically more expensive and varies by network.
Complete Guide to EV Charging Costs
Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is one of the most impactful financial decisions a driver can make. However, unlike traditional gasoline cars where fuel costs are displayed on large signs at every corner, EV charging costs can be more opaque. Understanding how to calculate your electric vehicle charging cost per mile and comparing it to gas prices is essential for maximizing your savings.
How is EV Charging Cost Calculated?
The cost to charge an electric car depends primarily on three factors: where you charge, the cost of electricity in your area, and your vehicle's efficiency.
- Electricity Rate: Measured in cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). The national average for residential electricity is approximately $0.16/kWh, but this varies wildly from $0.10 in states like Washington to over $0.35 in Hawaii or California.
- Vehicle Battery Capacity: Measured in kWh. Larger batteries (e.g., 100 kWh in a Tesla Model S) cost more to fill but offer greater range than smaller batteries (e.g., 60 kWh in a standard Model 3).
- Charging Efficiency: Just like MPG for gas cars, EVs have efficiency ratings, typically expressed as Watt-hours per mile (Wh/mi) or miles per kWh. A more efficient vehicle uses less electricity to travel the same distance.
Home Charging vs. Public Charging
One of the biggest advantages of EV ownership is the ability to "refuel" at home. Home charging is almost always the cheapest option. most EV owners do 80-90% of their charging at home, often overnight. If you have a Time-of-Use (TOU) plan with your utility company, you can schedule your car to charge during off-peak hours (usually midnight to 6 AM) when rates can be as low as $0.05-$0.10/kWh.
Public charging, particularly DC Fast Charging (Superchargers, Electrify America), is convenient for long road trips but comes at a premium. Public chargers often cost 2x to 4x more than residential rates, sometimes exceeding the cost of gasoline in equivalent miles per dollar. It is best used sparingly for long-distance travel.
The "MPGe" Myth vs. Real Cost Per Mile
Manufacturers often advertise MPGe (Miles Per Gallon equivalent), but this metric can be confusing. A better way to understand your savings is to calculate the Cost Per Mile.
Formula: Electricity Rate ($/kWh) ÷ Vehicle Efficiency (miles/kWh) = Cost Per Mile
For example, if you pay $0.15/kWh and your Tesla Model Y gets 3.5 miles/kWh, your cost is roughly $0.04 per mile. Compare this to a gas car getting 25 MPG at $3.50/gallon, which costs $0.14 per mile. In this scenario, driving electric is nearly 70% cheaper.
Factors That Affect Your Range and Cost
Real-world driving conditions impact your EV's efficiency. Cold weather can reduce range by 20-30% due to battery chemistry and cabin heating. High-speed highway driving also consumes significantly more energy than city driving due to aerodynamic drag. When using our Wattsolver EV Calculator, keep in mind that your actual mileage may vary based on your local climate and driving habits.