Data Sources & Methodology
Data last updated: January 2025 · Updated quarterly for electricity rates, annually for vehicle data
How the Numbers Work
5-year total cost of ownership: purchase price minus applicable tax credits, plus fuel costs (electricity at state average rate x miles/year x kWh/mile, or gas x miles/year / MPG x price/gallon), plus estimated maintenance differentials (EVs average $900/year less in maintenance per Consumer Reports). Depreciation uses segment average resale value curves.
Data Sources
EIA State-Level Residential Electricity Prices
Monthly residential electricity rates by state from the Energy Information Administration. Updated monthly.
EPA Fuel Economy Ratings Database
Official MPG and MPGe ratings for all new vehicles. The source for fuel cost calculations in both gas and EV scenarios.
DOE Alternative Fuels Data Center
EV cost-per-mile data, home charging cost calculations, and public charging infrastructure data.
IRS Clean Vehicle Tax Credit Schedules
Federal EV tax credit amounts under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRC Section 30D), including income and MSRP caps updated for 2025.
Limitations
Electricity costs vary by time-of-use rate plan; home charging overnight may be cheaper than the state average rate shown. Gas price forecasts are inherently uncertain. Tax credit eligibility depends on income, filing status, and vehicle assembly location. Depreciation estimates use segment averages and individual vehicles vary substantially.
About Estimates
The numbers on this site are estimates built from published data. They're a starting point for budgeting and comparison, not a quote. Your actual cost depends on specifics no calculator can know: your vendor, your timing, your circumstances.
Nothing on this site is financial, legal, or professional advice. If the decision is significant, talk to a professional.
EVGasCompare · Built in Sacramento, CA · Data updated January 2025