Gas vs Electric Vehicle Cost Calculator
Compare annual fuel costs between a gas car and an EV using your state's actual energy rates.
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Annual Fuel Cost Comparison
Based on 13,500 miles/year in California
Environmental Impact
Switching saves approximately 8,269 lbs of CO₂ per year — equivalent to planting about 172 trees.
How We Calculate This
Gas cost: 13,500 miles ÷ 32 MPG × $4.85/gal = $2,046/year
EV cost: 13,500 miles × 25.7 kWh/100mi ÷ 100 × $0.275/kWh = $954/year
CO₂ saved: Based on EPA average of 19.6 lbs CO₂ per gallon of gasoline, minus the grid emission factor for EV charging.
Gas vs Electric Car: Complete Cost Breakdown for 2026
The cost of driving an electric vehicle versus a gas car depends primarily on three factors: your local electricity rate, gas prices, and how much you drive. In states with cheap electricity like Washington (under 10¢/kWh), EV owners can save over $1,500 per year on fuel alone.
Most EV owners charge at home overnight on off-peak rates, which are often 20-50% lower than the standard rate. If your utility offers a time-of-use plan, your actual savings could be even higher than what this calculator shows with the standard rate.
Keep in mind that fuel is just one part of the equation. Electric vehicles also save on maintenance (no oil changes, fewer brake jobs) and may qualify for the federal EV tax credit of up to $7,500. Use our Total Cost of Ownership Calculator for the complete financial picture.