Public charging, especially DC fast charging, costs more than charging at home because the price must cover far more than electricity: the charger and its installation, utility demand charges for high peak power, network software, payment processing, maintenance and time when the charger sits idle. Home charging only pays for the electricity, which at the July 2026 US average of 18.31 cents per kWh (EIA) is far cheaper per mile.
Home vs Public
| Home Level 2 | Public Level 2 | Public DC fast | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main cost | Electricity | Electricity, hardware, network | Hardware, installation, demand charges |
| Relative price | Lowest | Medium | Highest |
Ways to Pay Less
- Charge at home for daily driving; see home charging cost.
- Use off-peak or EV electricity rates.
- Use free or low-cost destination Level 2; see why some stations are free.
- Fast charge only to about 80%; see why DC fast charging is expensive.
- Consider memberships if you fast charge often.
Home Charging Hardware
A Level 2 home charger such as the EVDANCE EV-ACT5006T 48A Level 2 wall charger or a portable unit like the EVDANCE EV-ACS4005T 40A NACS portable charger on a NEMA 14-50 is the most effective way to cut charging costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is public charging more expensive than gas?
Level 2 usually is not; DC fast can approach gas costs in some areas.
Will public charging get cheaper?
Prices depend on utilisation, competition and electricity rates.
Why do some stations charge per minute?
Some prefer time-based pricing or face rules on per-kWh sales.
Related Reading
Key Takeaways
- Public prices recover hardware, installation, demand charges and operations.
- Home charging is the cheapest per mile.
- Off-peak rates and stopping near 80% save money.