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As EVs and Tesla cars in particular grow in popularity in the US, prospective buyers always ask first: "How much will it actually cost to charge it?" Let's take at different Tesla models, analyze their charging costs and compare it to gas cars. We'll also show you how pairing your Tesla with solar panels can potentially eliminate your charging costs altogether. Hop in and off we go.
Key takeaways
16 cents/kWh
- the US average electricity rate
Your cost to charge a Tesla depends primarily on your Tesla model's battery capacity and your local electricity rates. The national average electricity rate is approximately 16 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), but this varies significantly by state—from as low as 10 cents in states like Washington to over 30 cents in California and Hawaii.
Here's what it costs to fully charge each Tesla model from empty to full using the national average electricity rate of 16¢/kWh:
$9.60
- average cost of fully charging Model 3 with 60 kWh battery
The Model 3 Standard Range with its 60 kWh battery costs about $9.60 for a full charge, while the Long Range and Performance variants with 82 kWh batteries cost approximately $13.12. With a range of 272-358 miles depending on the variant, this translates to roughly 3.5-4.2 cents per mile. A typical Model 3 owner driving 1,000 miles per month will spend about $35-42 on electricity, assuming all charging is done at home.
Similar to the Model 3, the Tesla Model Y Standard Range costs about $9.60 for a full charge of its 60 kWh battery, while the Long Range and Performance versions with 82 kWh batteries cost around $13.12. With a range between 260-330 miles, the cost per mile works out to approximately 3.7-4.5 cents. For 1,000 monthly miles, expect to spend $37-45 on electricity when charging your Tesla at home.
The Tesla Model S, including both the base model and Plaid variant, features a 100 kWh battery that costs about $16.00 for a full charge. With an impressive range of 375-405 miles, the cost per mile is approximately 3.9-4.3 cents. Model S owners can expect monthly charging costs around $39-43 for 1,000 miles of driving when charging at home.
Like the Model S, the Tesla Model X in both base and Plaid configurations has a 100 kWh battery costing about $16.00 for a full charge. With a range of 335-360 miles, the cost per mile is slightly higher at approximately 4.4-4.8 cents. For 1,000 monthly miles, Model X owners typically pay $44-48 in home charging costs.
The Cybertruck, Tesla's newest vehicle offering, comes with larger battery options. The Single Motor version with an estimated 100 kWh battery costs around $16.00 to charge, while the Dual Motor (120 kWh) and Tri Motor (130 kWh) versions cost approximately $19.20 and $20.80 respectively. With range estimates between 250-340 miles, the cost per mile is higher than other Tesla models at approximately 6.1-6.4 cents due to the vehicle's weight and aerodynamics. Cybertruck owners can expect to pay $61-64 monthly for 1,000 miles when charging at home.
For many buyers, the comparison to gas-powered vehicles is what makes the Tesla value proposition clear.
Using an EV like Tesla instead of a gas car reduces fuel costs by 70% on average
When comparing a Tesla Model Y Long Range to a comparable luxury gas car like the BMW X3, the difference is striking. The Tesla costs about 4.0 cents per mile (at 16¢/kWh), while the BMW X3, averaging 25 MPG, costs around 15.6 cents per mile (at $3.90/gallon). That's a 74% reduction in fuel costs per mile, making the Tesla much cheaper to operate.
For work vehicles, the comparison is equally impressive. The Tesla Cybertruck Dual Motor runs at approximately 6.4 cents per mile, while a Ford F-150 averaging 20 MPG costs about 19.5 cents per mile. This represents a 67% reduction in fuel costs per mile.
These differences translate to substantial annual savings for typical drivers. Someone covering 15,000 miles annually in a Model Y would save approximately $1,740 compared to a BMW X3. Similarly, a Cybertruck driver would save about $1,965 compared to an F-150 driver. These savings increase in states with higher gas prices or lower electricity costs, and they can be even more substantial for high-mileage drivers like contractors or sales professionals who might drive 25,000+ miles annually.
Over a typical 10-year vehicle lifespan covering 150,000 miles, the numbers become even more compelling. A Tesla Model Y would incur approximately $6,000 in charging costs, while a BMW X3 would require about $23,400 in fuel—a lifetime fuel savings of $17,400. For trucks, a Tesla Cybertruck would cost approximately $9,600 to charge over its lifetime, compared to the $29,250 in fuel costs for a Ford F-150—saving $19,650. Add in the reduced maintenance costs from having fewer moving parts, and the total ownership savings become even more substantial.
Several key factors can significantly impact your actual cost to charge a Tesla:
As shown above, larger battery capacities mean higher overall charging costs but may deliver better efficiency depending on the model. The Model 3 and Model Y tend to be the most efficient Tesla vehicles, while the Cybertruck is the least efficient due to its size and weight. The battery capacity of your Tesla model is a major factor in determining both range and charging costs.
Electricity costs vary dramatically across the country. The Northwest enjoys some of the lowest rates at 10-12¢/kWh, while the Midwest and South typically fall in the average range of 13-18¢/kWh. The highest costs are found in California, Hawaii, and the Northeast, where rates can reach 20-34¢/kWh. In these high-cost regions, your Tesla charging costs could be nearly double the national average. Where you live significantly impacts how much you'll pay to charge your Tesla.
Where you charge has a major impact on your costs. Home charging typically costs around the national average of 16¢/kWh, while Tesla Superchargers range from 28-50¢/kWh depending on location and time. Third-party charging stations can cost between 31-60¢/kWh, while workplace charging is often free or offered at a reduced price. For most owners, charging a Tesla at home overnight will be the primary and most cost-effective method, with Superchargers used mainly for long road trips.
Many utility companies offer time-of-use (TOU) plans that reduce electricity rates during off-peak hours. Peak rates, typically between 4pm-9pm, can exceed 30¢/kWh, while off-peak rates during the night (usually 11pm-7am) can be as low as 7-10¢/kWh. By scheduling your Tesla to charge during off-peak hours through the Tesla app, you can reduce your charging costs by 40-60%. The time of day you charge your electric vehicle can be one of the biggest factors affecting your overall cost to charge.
Charging equipment experiences some efficiency loss, with home Level 2 charging typically achieving 90-95% efficiency and Supercharging around 85-90%. These losses are generally factored into the kWh used (and billed), but they do impact your overall cost slightly. The type of charger you use affects both how fast you can charge your Tesla and the total cost of charging.
Your charging location strategy significantly impacts your overall Tesla charging costs. Let's look at the factors.
Home charging requires a one-time investment but delivers the lowest per-mile costs over time. The Tesla Wall Connector costs $425, and installation typically runs between $500-$1,500 depending on your electrical setup, for a total upfront cost of $925-$1,925. This provides charging speeds up to 44 miles of range per hour, with costs based on your home electricity rate.
For contractors and homeowners who already have 240V outlets in their garage, you can use Tesla's Mobile Connector ($230) with the appropriate adapter, saving on installation costs. Charging your Tesla at home is nearly always cheaper than using public charging options, especially if you take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
Pro tip for electricians and contractors: If you're already upgrading electrical systems for clients, consider getting certified for EV charger installation to expand your service offerings.
Tesla's Supercharger network provides fast charging but at a premium price. Costs average between 28-50¢/kWh depending on location, with some stations implementing peak pricing during high-demand periods. Superchargers provide impressive charging speeds up to 250kW, adding up to 200 miles in just 15 minutes. Be aware of idle fees ($0.50-$1.00 per minute) that may apply after charging completes if the station is over 50% occupied. While approximately three times more expensive than home charging, Tesla Superchargers are invaluable for road trips and emergency charging needs.
Other charging stations provide additional options but typically at higher costs. Electrify America charges 31-43¢/kWh for members (higher for non-members), EVgo ranges from 39-59¢/kWh depending on membership status, and ChargePoint prices vary by location as station owners set their own rates. Most of these networks require their own app, but Tesla vehicles can use them with the appropriate adapter. The cost to charge at these stations is generally higher than charging at home but may be more convenient depending on where you live and drive.
You can still find free charging options to supplement your primary charging strategy. Many employers offer workplace charging as an employee benefit, while some shopping centers provide complimentary charging to attract customers. Hotels often offer free charging for guests, and some restaurants and attractions feature destination chargers. These opportunities can reduce your overall cost of charging a Tesla, especially for daily commuting.
For the most economical long-term strategy, pairing your Tesla with a home solar system can potentially eliminate your charging costs entirely.
To fully power your Tesla with solar, you'll need additional solar panel capacity beyond what you might install for your home's electrical needs. For Model 3/Y, this means approximately 2.5 additional kW of solar capacity, while Model S/X/Cybertruck require approximately 3-4 kW. This translates to about 7-10 additional solar panels specifically for vehicle charging. The amount of solar power you'll need depends on how much you drive and which Tesla model you own.
Let us do the math
A1 SolarStore Calculator will help you choose the right solar panels and accessories to cover your energy needs.
Calculate your PV systemAdding solar panel capacity specifically for your Tesla involves an upfront investment. The additional solar panels typically cost between $5,000-$8,000 before incentives. With the federal tax credit providing a 30% reduction through 2032, the net system cost drops to $3,500-$5,600. This investment generates annual charging savings of $500-$700, depending on your Tesla model and annual mileage. While there's an initial cost to install home solar, the long-term savings on charging your Tesla can be substantial.
The economics of solar charging work out favorably over time. Most home solar setups reach their break-even point within 5-8 years, while the system itself has a lifespan of 25+ years with quality solar panels. This creates total lifetime savings between $12,500-$17,500 over 25 years, potentially more with rising utility rates. For farmers and rural property owners with ample roof or ground space, the economics become even more favorable due to the ability to install larger systems. Based on current electricity rates and solar panel prices, charging your Tesla with solar power is a smart long-term investment.
Adding a Tesla Powerwall creates a comprehensive energy system with numerous benefits. You gain the ability to charge during grid outages, maintaining mobility during power failures. Energy arbitrage becomes possible, storing solar energy for use during peak rate periods. The system provides valuable backup power, critical for home businesses or remote properties. Some utilities even pay Powerwall owners for grid services through virtual power plant participation.
For contractors and DIY enthusiasts who work from home or run home workshops, this setup provides energy security and can protect sensitive equipment from power fluctuations. A combined solar panel and Powerwall system creates the ultimate solution for charging your Tesla while increasing your home's energy independence.
When all factors are considered, the average Tesla owner will spend between $400-$700 annually on charging costs—about 25-35% of what they would have spent on gasoline for a comparable gas-powered vehicle.
For high-mileage drivers like contractors, sales professionals, or service providers, the savings are even more substantial, potentially reaching $3,000-$5,000 annually compared to a gas vehicle.
Those who invest in home solar can potentially eliminate their Tesla charging costs entirely after the initial investment period, making the long-term economics of Tesla ownership exceptionally favorable.
The bottom line: While the upfront purchase price of a Tesla remains higher than many gas-powered alternatives, the charging cost advantages—combined with reduced maintenance needs—make the total cost of ownership significantly lower for most owners, especially those who drive more than 12,000 miles annually.
Whether you're a contractor looking to reduce operating costs, a farmer modernizing your equipment, or a homeowner seeking to lower your environmental impact while saving money, understanding these charging economics helps you make the most of your Tesla investment.
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