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In the United States, charging at home generally costs less per kilowatt-hour than paid public charging, especially DC fast charging. The difference for your car depends on your local electricity rate, its energy use, the station’s pricing and any session, parking, idle or membership fees. A useful comparison is the cost to drive the same distance in the same vehicle—not a single national price per charge.
How to compare charging costs fairly
Use the same vehicle-efficiency figure for both options. The basic calculation is:
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Cost per 100 miles = electricity price per kWh × vehicle energy use in kWh per 100 miles.
For a public session, add any applicable session, parking or idle fee. If you are comparing a paid membership with non-member pricing, include the membership cost only when it applies to the period or charging you are evaluating. Use the marginal electricity rate for home charging—the rate charged for the additional electricity used—not a bill total that includes fixed monthly charges unrelated to the EV.
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- Safe & Durable: Rely on this UL-certified EV charger for safe home charging. It can be installed indoors or outdoors by an electrician and includes a cold-resistant cable.
- Fast & Powerful: This EV charger charges 9× faster than a 120V outlet, delivering up to 45 mi/hr., dependent upon your vehicle. It features a J1772 connector for all non-Tesla EVs and requires a 20A or 80A circuit. For Tesla EVs, this will require an adapter.
For example, at 30 kWh per 100 miles, multiplying by the U.S. 2025 average residential price of 17.30¢/kWh gives about $5.19 per 100 miles. That is an arithmetic illustration, not an estimate of any particular driver’s bill. It excludes charging losses, fees and time-varying rates. Substitute the rate on your bill and your own vehicle’s consumption for a local estimate.
Keep the energy-use basis consistent. The vehicle’s displayed energy use, electricity drawn from a home outlet and energy delivered by a charger may not match because of charging losses. If your consumption figure does not account for losses, the calculated cost will understate the electricity needed at the meter. State whether your estimate includes them rather than applying a loss factor without a measured or otherwise supported value.
What the available U.S. benchmarks show
The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports a 2025 annual average residential retail electricity price of 17.30¢/kWh. It also reports substantial differences among states; the national average is a reference point, not a tariff available to every household. EIA’s monthly table identifies 2025 and 2026 figures as preliminary estimates where noted, so check the current data and your own bill before relying on a benchmark for a decision. EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.3
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- WORKS WITH EVERY NON-TESLA EV: Standard J1772 connector plugs straight into Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Rivian, Lucid and every other EV or plug-in hybrid sold with a J1772 port - no adapter needed. Tesla drivers can charge too, using the J1772 adapter that comes with the car.
- PLUG IN, NO HARDWIRING: Level 2 charger delivers up to 40A to fully charge most EVs overnight. Plugs into a 240V, 4-prong NEMA 14-50 outlet (the RV/range type - NOT a dryer outlet) on a dedicated 50A circuit. The extra-long 25 ft cable easily reaches across a garage or driveway. Before ordering, check your car's port type and that you have the right outlet.
- CONTROL & SAVE FROM YOUR PHONE: A stronger built-in antenna keeps the charger online even in a garage or basement. Use the free app to start/stop charging, set speed (6-40A), get reminders, and track energy use and cost. Schedule off-peak overnight charging to cut your electric bill. Requires 2.4 GHz WiFi.
- SAFETY-CERTIFIED & WEATHERPROOF: Independently tested and certified (UL, ETL, FCC, Energy Star). A fully sealed IP66 / NEMA 4 housing stands up to rain, snow, heat and dust indoors or out, and internal steel shielding protects the electronics for years of reliable use.
- GLOW-IN-THE-DARK HOLSTER: The included high-visibility holster glows in the dark so you can find and dock the plug easily at night. Holds the connector securely when not in use.
A 2024 National Renewable Energy Laboratory technical report gives approximate public-charging benchmarks of $0.20–$0.25/kWh for AC Level 2 and $0.40–$0.60/kWh for DC fast charging. These are broad, dated context rather than live station tariffs or a definitive survey of light-duty consumer prices: the report focuses on medium- and heavy-duty charging infrastructure. Rates at an individual station may differ. NREL report hosted by DOE AFDC
| Charging option | Benchmark used | Illustrative cost per 100 miles at 30 kWh/100 miles | What to keep in mind |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home electricity | 17.30¢/kWh, EIA 2025 U.S. residential annual average | About $5.19 | National average; your marginal residential rate may differ. Arithmetic example before losses or time-of-use effects. |
| Public AC Level 2 | About $0.20–$0.25/kWh, NREL 2024 report | About $6–$7.50 | Approximate report benchmark, not a current universal consumer rate; excludes fees and losses. |
| Public DC fast charging | About $0.40–$0.60/kWh, NREL 2024 report | About $12–$18 | Approximate report benchmark, not a current universal consumer rate; excludes fees and losses. |
The example holds vehicle efficiency constant to isolate the effect of the electricity price. It does not predict what a particular trip will cost. A separate DOE consumer-page example says that adding 100 miles of range at 12.3¢/kWh costs $2.46 under its stated assumptions. The result depends on that example’s assumptions and should not be read as a general current price for 100 miles in every EV. DOE AFDC, Electric Vehicles for Consumers
Why your actual total can be higher or lower
Your local home-electricity rate
Use the rate that applies when the car is charging. Some utilities offer time-of-use pricing, under which the price changes by time of day; overnight charging may therefore cost less than charging at peak times. Do not assume that an advertised overnight rate applies to your address or to every hour: check your utility bill and plan terms. A fixed monthly utility charge usually should not be assigned entirely to EV charging because it would be owed whether or not the car charged.
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- WORKS WITH EVERY TESLA + OTHER EVs: Built-in Tesla-style plug (NACS standard) connects directly to Tesla Model S, 3, X and Y - and any EV with a NACS port - no adapter needed. The plug even has a button to pop open your Tesla’s charge port. Non-Tesla J1772 vehicles can charge with a NACS-to-J1772 adapter (not included). The extra-long 25 ft cable easily reaches across a garage or driveway.
- HARDWIRED - PROFESSIONAL INSTALL: This Level 2 charger is hardwired (not plug-in), so a licensed electrician installs it per National Electrical Code. It delivers up to 48A on a dedicated 60A, 240V circuit - enough to charge most EVs fully overnight. Want more speed? Your can set DIP switches 4 and 5 to unlock 50A on a dedicated 70A circuit. Before ordering, check your car’s port type and that your electrical panel can support the circuit.
- CONTROL FROM YOUR PHONE: A stronger built-in antenna keeps the charger online even in a garage or basement. Use the free app to start and stop charging, set the charging speed (6-48A), get reminders, and track how much energy and money each charge uses. Requires a 2.4 GHz home WiFi network.
- SAFETY-CERTIFIED & WEATHERPROOF: Independently tested and certified (UL, ETL, FCC, Energy Star). A fully sealed IP66 / NEMA 4 housing stands up to rain, snow, heat and dust indoors or out, and internal steel shielding protects the electronics for years of reliable use.
- GLOW-IN-THE-DARK HOLSTER: The included high-visibility holster glows in the dark so you can find and dock the plug easily at night. Holds the connector securely when not in use.
Vehicle energy use
The same price per kWh produces different costs per mile in vehicles with different energy consumption. Use the car’s kWh per 100 miles, or another consistent consumption measure, for both home and public calculations. If you only know the range added, the DOE example can provide context, but it cannot replace a vehicle-specific efficiency figure for a precise comparison.
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Public charging can be billed per kWh, per session, by time, or through a subscription. The price can vary by location, network, membership status or arrangement with a vehicle maker. A per-minute charge can make charging time relevant to the bill; a per-session charge can matter especially for a short top-up. Check the station’s displayed price and fee terms before connecting, and distinguish an energy charge from any additional charge.
Fees, parking and free sites
Session, parking and idle fees can change the effective cost even if the energy price looks reasonable. A free charging location can make a public session cheaper than home electricity, though free availability depends on the site and circumstances. DOE’s operations guidance reports that more than 20% of public charging across levels is free; that figure does not mean a free charger will be available where or when you need one. The DOE consumer page notes that drivers can normally expect to pay more at public stations—particularly DC fast-charging stations—than for home electricity, while recognizing free sites and varying payment models. DOE AFDC, Electric Vehicles for Consumers
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- [Up to 9x Faster Charging Speed]: Provides up to 46 miles/hour charging speed via hardwired connection (48 amp - up to 9x faster than a standard wall outlet) or up to 38 miles/hour via the NEMA 14-50 plug (40 amp). Professional installation recommended for optimal safety and performance. [Install The Power Outlet Cord]: No smaller than 8AWG if charge 40-48A, we suggest 6AWG cord.(1.The input side is belongs to the electrician electric automobile regulation scope, need to use three 6AWG cable wires for 48A; 2.The charging cable belongs to the automotive connector certification standard, so the 8AWG cable can meet the 48A.)
- [DESIGNED WITH J1772 Connector for All North America j1772 Connector EVs/PHEVs. Not fits for Tesla/Nacs Connector Cars(j1772 to Tesla adapter needed)]: Compatible with Tesla cars (Adapter needed, not included), Ford, GM, Audi, Kia, Honda, Kia, Hyundai, Gmc, Chevrolet Bolt, VW ID 4, Nissan Leaf, Ford Mustang Mach-E, IONIQ 5 2024 and before, BMW i3, i4, iX, Jeep Wrangler 4xe, etc. [Not fits for Nac connector cars-Kia EV6 2025/EV9,Ariya 2025&2025 loniq 5(J1772 to Tesla adapter needed)]
- [Safety & Faster Charging with ETL, FCC, Energy Star Certified]: Meets the Safety Criteria Defined by: SAE J1772, UL2231-1/-2, UL 991, UL 2231, UL 2251, UL1998 and UL 2594. (ETL and FCC certified EV car charger with 3-year Warranty)
- [Plug-play Mode(The Default Setting), Smart Touch Screen, No APP Needed]: Clearly show the charging amperage, charging speed, input voltage, delay time, etc. For the touch buttons: 1. Pull out the charging gun before press the buttons, otherwise no respond; 2. Long press "Ⓐ" or "Time" button to enter the setting interface, then you can adjust the amperage from 16A to 48A freely or Set the charging start time; 3. You can do "factory reset" if doesn't charging.
- [Smart WIFI APP, You can Set the Charging Period]: By APP, you can wirelessly check the charging cost, history, fully-charged notification, track the charging status, during off-peak period, etc. [Wi-Fi Reset/Factory Reset Function, Add New Device Quickly]: If you can't find your device or you have replaced a new phone, just pull out the charging latches, simultaneously long press the Ⓐ button and time adjustment button on the product screen until it shows "Factory Reset", then wait 3-5 seconds and re-start your device.
Home Level 1 and Level 2: equipment affects upfront cost, not just energy price
Most EV drivers charge at home overnight with AC Level 1 or Level 2 equipment, according to DOE. Both use the home’s electricity supply, so if they are billed under the same residential tariff, the per-kWh energy price is not inherently different just because one charger is faster. The equipment changes how quickly the car can charge and may change what you must spend before charging at home.
Level 1
Level 1 charging uses a suitable 120-volt outlet. A vehicle may include a cordset, and Level 1 can be enough for some drivers’ daily use without buying a separate charging unit. Whether it meets your needs depends on how much energy you use and how long the car can remain plugged in. Verify that the outlet, circuit and cordset are appropriate for the vehicle and intended use rather than assuming any outlet is suitable.
Level 2
Level 2 uses 240-volt equipment and can charge faster; overnight charging can also line up with lower, stable residential rates where the utility offers them. DOE’s consumer page describes Level 2 equipment as typically costing $500–$4,000 before installation and incentives. This is source-specific guidance, not a current quote. Installation, labor, permitting and any needed electrical work can materially change the total, so keep those costs separate from the per-kWh comparison. DOE AFDC, Electric Vehicles for Consumers
Best Value
- WORKS WITH EVERY NON-TESLA EV: Standard J1772 connector plugs straight into Ford, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Rivian, Lucid and every other EV or plug-in hybrid sold with a J1772 port - no adapter needed. Tesla drivers can charge too, using the J1772 adapter that comes with the car. The extra-long 25 ft cable easily reaches across a garage or driveway.
- HARDWIRED - PROFESSIONAL INSTALL: This Level 2 charger is hardwired (not plug-in), so a licensed electrician installs it per National Electrical Code. It delivers up to 48A on a dedicated 60A, 240V circuit - enough to charge most EVs fully overnight. Want more speed? You can set DIP switches 4 and 5 to unlock 50A on a dedicated 70A circuit. Before ordering, check your car's port type and that your electrical panel can support the circuit.
- CONTROL FROM YOUR PHONE: A stronger built-in antenna keeps the charger online even in a garage or basement. Use the free app to start and stop charging, set the charging speed (6-48A), get reminders, and track how much energy and money each charge uses. Requires a 2.4 GHz home WiFi network.
- SAFETY-CERTIFIED & WEATHERPROOF: Independently tested and certified (UL, ETL, FCC, Energy Star). A fully sealed IP66 / NEMA 4 housing stands up to rain, snow, heat and dust indoors or out, and internal steel shielding protects the electronics for years of reliable use.
- GLOW-IN-THE-DARK HOLSTER: The included high-visibility holster glows in the dark so you can find and dock the plug easily at night. Holds the connector securely when not in use.
Before choosing a home unit, check vehicle connector compatibility, cord length, power output, the home’s electrical service and circuit capacity, and outdoor suitability if the unit will be exposed to weather. Ask the utility about available rates or programs, confirm local requirements, and consult a qualified electrical contractor about installation. A Level 2 charger is optional; buying one does not automatically make home charging cheaper overall once equipment and installation are included.
Which option fits your charging routine?
| Driver situation | Useful comparison | Decision point |
|---|---|---|
| Homeowner with overnight parking | Compare the home’s overnight marginal rate with the specific public station’s energy price and fees. | Level 1 may meet daily needs; consider Level 2 if charging speed or schedule requires it, accounting separately for equipment and installation. |
| Renter or multifamily resident without a dedicated outlet | Check whether the building offers charging and how the price is billed; multifamily charging may involve arrangements more like public charging. | Include access, parking and billing conditions, not just the nominal price per kWh. |
| Driver who often travels on highways | Estimate trip energy at the actual DC fast-charging sites and include station pricing and any idle or parking charges. | Fast charging is primarily a time-and-route option; its convenience may matter even where the per-kWh benchmark is higher. |
| Driver with access to a free public site | Compare the no-energy-charge session with any parking, session or idle rules and the practical cost of reaching the site. | Confirm current site terms and availability rather than assuming free charging is dependable for every trip. |
This comparison is about charging cost, not the full cost of owning an EV. If you are deciding whether to install equipment, treat the purchase, installation and electricity as separate parts of the decision. The equipment cost is a one-time upfront expense while electricity is an ongoing cost; the number of miles you expect to charge at home and the alternative public prices determine whether the upfront expense makes sense for your situation. The available equipment range is not enough by itself to calculate a payback period.
A practical way to estimate your own cost
- Find your vehicle’s energy use. Use a consistent kWh-per-100-mile figure for the vehicle and driving pattern you want to compare.
- Find your home’s marginal rate. Check the utility bill or rate plan for the price during your usual charging hours; use the applicable time-of-use rate if relevant.
- Check the public station’s current terms. Confirm the per-kWh, per-minute or per-session price, along with membership requirements and parking or idle fees.
- Calculate both costs for the same distance. Multiply each applicable energy price by the same kWh-per-100-mile figure, then add fees that apply to the public session.
- Make the energy basis explicit. Note whether your estimate includes charging losses, and avoid treating the national average or a dated benchmark as your personal rate.
- Separate recurring and upfront expenses. If considering home Level 2 equipment, obtain an installation assessment and compare its cost separately from the electricity estimate.
What the comparison can—and cannot—tell you
On energy price alone, the U.S. benchmarks point to lower costs at home than at paid public stations, with the widest gap generally against DC fast charging. But the calculation is only as local and current as its inputs. The EIA average is national and annual; the NREL ranges are approximate 2024 figures from a report focused on medium- and heavy-duty infrastructure. Public tariffs, membership terms, utility rates and equipment costs can change, while the driver’s actual rate depends on location, timing and vehicle use.
Use current local prices for a decision, and use the dated figures as context rather than promises. A homeowner able to charge overnight, a renter relying on shared charging and a highway driver using fast chargers face different combinations of price, access and convenience; a single average cannot settle those choices.
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