EV vs gas: the real cost per mile
Published on 2026-06-08
Beyond the sticker price, what does it actually cost to run an EV versus a gas car day to day? It hinges enormously on where you charge and where you fill up.
Gas: cost per 100 miles
A gas car getting 30 mpg, with gas around $3.50 a gallon, spends roughly $12 to drive 100 miles. A 40 mpg car drops that to about $9. Choosing a cheaper station (say 30 cents per gallon less) trims it further. Small per-gallon gaps add up over a year.
Less efficient SUVs and trucks in the low 20s mpg can easily run $15-$18 per 100 miles at the same price, which is where the EV gap really opens up.
EV: charging at home vs on the road
On a typical home electricity rate (roughly 12-18 cents per kWh, less on an off-peak time-of-use plan) at about 3.5 miles per kWh, 100 miles costs around $3.50-$5. That's far less than gas for most drivers.
But on a public DC fast charger (often 40-60 cents per kWh) those same 100 miles can cost $11-$17, roughly matching or exceeding a fuel-efficient gas car. Where you plug in changes everything.
So which is actually cheaper?
If you can charge at home or at work, the EV wins comfortably on cost per mile. If you rely on public fast charging, the advantage shrinks or disappears. Either way, picking the cheapest point, pump or charger, is what moves the needle.
Refil shows the cheapest gas station or EV charger near you on the map, so whichever you drive, you can always see the lowest price within reach before you commit.
FAQ
Is an EV always cheaper to run?
Only if you charge cheaply, meaning home or off-peak charging or low-cost public stations. With expensive DC fast charging, the cost per mile can match or beat a fuel-efficient gas car.
How much does it cost to drive 100 miles in an EV?
From about $3.50-$5 charging at home (12-18 cents per kWh) to $11-$17 on a pricey public fast charger, assuming around 3.5 miles per kWh.
Do rates vary by where I live?
Yes, a lot. Electricity prices vary by state and utility, and gas prices vary by region and taxes, so your real cost per mile depends heavily on your location and rate plan.
Always find the cheapest option
Refil shows the cheapest EV charger near you on the map, plus fuel prices when you drive in Europe. Download it free on the App Store.
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