EV vs Gas Car: Cost to Drive in 2026
Electricity is usually far cheaper per mile than gasoline, but the 2026 picture changed: the federal EV purchase tax credit ended September 30, 2025. Here's how the running costs compare.
Electric Vehicle
Charged at home/public
What you enter
- Electricity rate
- Miles per year
- Efficiency (mi/kWh)
What you get
- Annual charging cost
- Cost per mile
Calculator coming soon
Gas Car
Gasoline
What you enter
- Gas price
- Miles per year
- MPG
What you get
- Annual fuel cost
- Cost per mile
Calculator coming soon
Key differences
| Feature | Electric Vehicle | Gas Car |
|---|---|---|
| Energy source | Electricity | Gasoline |
| Typical cost per mile | ~3–6¢ (home charging) | ~12–18¢ |
| 2026 federal purchase credit | None (ended Sep 30, 2025) | — |
| Maintenance | Lower (no oil changes) | Higher |
| Best when | You can charge at home, drive a lot | Cheap gas, no home charging, low miles |
Which should you choose?
Choose Electric Vehicle if:
- You can charge at home, ideally on an off-peak rate
- You drive enough miles for fuel savings to matter
- You want lower maintenance
Choose Gas Car if:
- You rely on expensive public fast-charging
- You drive very few miles per year
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to charge an EV than buy gas in 2026?
Almost always, if you charge at home — typically 3–6¢ per mile versus 12–18¢ for gas. Relying on expensive public fast-charging narrows or erases the gap.
Is there still a federal EV tax credit in 2026?
No. The federal EV purchase tax credit ended September 30, 2025. Some states still offer their own EV incentives.
Does winter hurt EV running costs?
Yes — cold weather can cut range 10–30%, raising cost per mile in winter. Home charging still keeps EVs cheaper than gas in most cases.
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Figures reflect 2026 post–One Big Beautiful Bill Act rules and are general estimates; your results will vary. Not financial advice.