As electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular across the United States, drivers are asking one key question: Is an EV really cheaper than a gas car to own and drive?
With rising fuel prices, government tax incentives, and improvements in EV technology, the cost gap between electric and gasoline cars has never been closer — and in many cases, EVs are now the cheaper option over time.

Our EV vs Gas Cost Comparison Tool (2025) helps you calculate the real difference between electric and gas vehicle running costs — including charging, fuel, and maintenance expenses.

⚡ 1. EV vs Gas Car: The Core Cost Differences

Cost Factor	Electric Vehicle (EV)	Gasoline Car
Fuel / Energy Cost	3–5¢ per mile (based on 13¢/kWh avg)	12–15¢ per mile (based on $3.50/gallon avg)
Maintenance	Lower (fewer moving parts)	Higher (oil changes, belts, filters, etc.)
Upfront Cost	Slightly higher (before incentives)	Usually lower
Tax Credits	Up to $7,500 federal + state incentives	None
Resale Value	Increasing due to demand	Declining for gas models

💡 Example:
If you drive 1,000 miles a month, an EV might cost around $40–$50 in electricity, while a gas car could cost $120–$150 in fuel — meaning $1,000+ annual savings on energy alone.

🔋 2. EV Charging vs Gas Refueling Costs

Electric Charging:

• Average U.S. electricity rate (2025): $0.13 per kWh
• Example: 60 kWh battery × $0.13 = $7.80 per full charge
• Typical range: 250–300 miles per charge

Gasoline Fuel:

• Average U.S. gas price (2025): $3.50 per gallon
• 30 MPG vehicle × $3.50 = $11.67 per 100 miles

👉 Result: EVs cost roughly 60–70% less per mile for energy.

🔧 3. Maintenance and Repairs

Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, meaning fewer things can go wrong:

• No oil changes
• No spark plugs or exhaust systems
• Regenerative braking reduces brake wear

A recent Consumer Reports study found EV owners spend 50% less on maintenance compared to gas car owners.

🌍 4. Environmental and Long-Term Benefits

• Zero tailpipe emissions → cleaner air and less CO₂
• Lower lifetime carbon footprint, especially with renewable charging
• Quieter drive, fewer vibrations, and instant torque performance

EVs aren’t just cheaper — they’re also better for the planet and urban air quality.

💰 5. Calculate Your Own Costs

Use our free EV vs Gas Cost Comparison Calculator below 👇 to see your personalized savings based on:

• Average monthly mileage
• Electricity rate in your area
• Gas price per gallon
• Vehicle efficiency (MPG vs miles/kWh)

You’ll instantly see your monthly, yearly, and lifetime savings when switching to electric.

✅ Conclusion: Is It Worth Switching to an EV in 2025?

For most U.S. drivers, the answer is yes — especially if you drive frequently or have home charging access.
While upfront prices can be higher, EVs quickly pay for themselves through savings in fuel, maintenance, and tax incentives.