EV vs Gas: Cost Calculator
The fuel-cost question for EV shoppers, made concrete. Plug in your driving habits and local energy prices to see the gap.
What this calculator tells you
You see your annual EV fuel cost, your annual gas cost, and the difference. The calculator multiplies that out to 5-year and 10-year savings so you can compare against the price gap between an EV and a similar gas vehicle.
What it doesn't tell you
This is fuel cost only — not total cost of ownership. To get to TCO you'd also need to factor in:
- Purchase price gap. EVs often cost more up-front; tax credits and rebates partially offset this.
- Maintenance. EVs typically save $1,000-$2,000 per year on maintenance (no oil changes, fewer brake replacements due to regenerative braking).
- Insurance. EVs are sometimes more expensive to insure due to higher repair costs.
- Home charger installation. A Level 2 charger + electrician install typically runs $1,000-$2,500.
- Resale value. Varies wildly by model and battery degradation.
Where to find the numbers
- EV efficiency (mi/kWh): check fueleconomy.gov or the EPA window sticker. Range divided by usable battery kWh.
- Your MPG: from your last fillup or fueleconomy.gov for your current car.
- Electricity rate: from your utility bill ($/kWh including all fees and taxes). US average is roughly $0.16 in 2025.
- Gas price: AAA's national gas price tracker or your local pumps.