RoadCost

EV vs Gas: Cost Comparison Calculator

Compare fuel cost of a gas car and an electric car for one trip and for a year.

EV saves per trip$29.92 (64%)
Gas / trip$46.40
EV / trip$16.48
Diff / year−$1,196.98

Settingsgas and electricity prices

How EV vs gas cost is calculated

Gas cost = miles ÷ MPG × price per gallon. EV cost = miles × kWh per mile × price per kWh, where kWh per mile = (kWh/100mi) ÷ 100 or 1 ÷ (mi/kWh). Difference = gas cost − EV cost, per trip and per year.

Planning a gas road trip? Use the gas trip cost calculator.

Prices we use

Defaults: gas $4.331/gal (EIA, week of Oct 12, 2026); electricity $0.1831/kWh U.S. residential average (EIA EPM Table 5.6.A, July 2026 (published Sep 24, 2026)). Enter your local prices.

FAQ

Is it cheaper to drive an EV or a gas car?

Compare cost per mile: gas = price per gallon ÷ MPG, EV = kWh per mile × price per kWh. The calculator shows both per trip and per year for your numbers.

How do I calculate EV charging cost per mile?

Multiply the EV's consumption in kWh per mile by your electricity price. 30 kWh per 100 miles is 0.30 kWh per mile; at $0.18 per kWh that is $0.054 per mile.

How do I convert miles per kWh to kWh per 100 miles?

kWh per 100 miles = 100 ÷ miles per kWh. For example, 4 mi/kWh equals 25 kWh per 100 miles.

What is the average price of electricity in the U.S.?

The U.S. average residential electricity price was 18.31 cents per kWh in July 2026 (published Sep 24, 2026), according to EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A. Prices vary widely by state.

What is the average gas price right now?

The U.S. average retail price of regular gasoline was $4.331 per gallon for the week of Oct 12, 2026 (EIA Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Update).

Does public fast charging change the comparison?

Yes. Public DC fast chargers often charge more per kWh than home electricity. Enter the price you actually pay per kWh to see the real difference.