If you’re thinking of switching to an electric vehicle, or maybe you already own one, you’ve probably asked yourself: “Should I charge at home or just rely on public stations?” The quick answer? For long-term savings and convenience, home charging usually comes out on top.

Woman charging her red EV at home.

When Public Charging Still Makes Sense

Public charging isn’t useless. It serves important purposes, but it often comes at a higher cost. You’ll likely use public stations when:

  • You’re on a road trip and need a quick battery top-up
  • Your home doesn’t have a garage or a dedicated parking spot
  • You live in an apartment complex without charging infrastructure
  • You own multiple EVs, and your home setup can’t handle them all at once
  • You ended up with a low battery unexpectedly and need a fast charge

In these situations, public chargers are essential. But for everyday charging needs, they’re rarely the most cost-effective option.

The True Cost Advantage of Home Charging

At home, your electricity likely costs between $0.10 and $0.15 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). If your utility offers time-of-use rates, overnight charging can cost as little as $0.06 to $0.10 per kWh. That’s a bargain compared to public station rates, which often run $0.30 to $0.60 per kWh, and sometimes even more during peak demand or in high-traffic areas.

Let’s say you drive 250 miles per week. With an efficiency of about 3 miles per kWh, that’s about 83 kWh each week, or around 4,300 kWh a year. At home, using a blended average rate of $0.12 per kWh, your annual charging bill would land around $520. If you switched entirely to public chargers, averaging $0.45 per kWh, your yearly bill would increase to approximately $1,935. That’s nearly $1,415 more each year spent on charging.

Breaking Even on Upfront Installation

Installing a Level 2 charger in your home requires an upfront investment, but that investment pays for itself surprisingly quickly. First, there’s the cost of the charger itself, which ranges from $500 to $700 for a reliable model. Then, you’ll need a licensed electrician to install a 240-volt line from your electrical panel to your driveway or garage, which typically costs between $800 and $2,000, depending on how far the panel is and whether any upgrades are needed. So, your total investment will sit between $1,300 and $2,700.

With annual savings of over $1,400 compared to public charging, you’d cover that cost in two years or less. And after that, you’re saving every year, whether you stay in the house or decide to sell.

A Real-Life Example: Sarah’s EV Strategy

Meet Sarah. She drives a Chevy Bolt and racks up about 15,000 miles per year. That translates to around 5,000 kWh of charging annually, given her EV’s efficiency.

Here’s what her charging plan looks like:

  • Home charging: 80% at $0.12/kWh → 4,000 kWh → $480
  • Public charging: 20% at $0.45/kWh → 1,000 kWh → $450
    Total annual cost: $930

If she had relied only on public stations, her total would have hit $2,250. By mainly charging at home, she’s saving $1,320 a year. And since she spends around $1,500 on installation, she recoups that in about 18 months. After that, everything is savings.

How to Maximize Your Home Charging Plan

To get the most benefit from charging at home, here’s what to consider:

  • Consider a time-of-use rate plan: Charging during off-peak hours can significantly lower your electricity rate.
  • Install a smart Level 2 charger: These allow you to schedule your charging to coincide with off-peak rates and save money.
  • Upgrade your electrical panel if needed: A licensed electrician can confirm whether your current setup can accommodate the addition of a 240-volt circuit.
  • Explore rebates and credits: Many utility providers and local governments offer incentives that can reduce the installation cost by a few hundred dollars.
  • Plan for multiple EVs: Thinking of starting a second EV? Install with future growth in mind to avoid rework later.

The Fade of Fast-Charging Efficiency

Fast chargers are great when you need them, but they come at a cost. Public fast charging costs more per kWh, can reduce battery lifespan faster, and may leave your wallet empty sooner than expected.

Most drivers average fewer than 50 miles daily. For that usage pattern, overnight home charging is perfectly sufficient; no costly quick stops required. Fast chargers are best saved for out-of-town travel or times you’re running low unexpectedly.

Security, Control, and Convenience

Charging at home isn’t just cheaper. It’s smarter in day-to-day life:

  • You don’t have to leave on a schedule or stand in a parking spot for 30 minutes.
  • You don’t worry about station compatibility, idle fees, or slow service.
  • You’re not sharing chargers or waiting in line with other drivers.

Your home setup gives you peace of mind and cost control.

A Final Word on Home Charging Value

Charging at home can lead to substantial savings over time. Add in the convenience, greater control over your charging routine, and the efficiency of a Level 2 charger, and it becomes an attractive option for many drivers. Public charging has its place, but for daily life, nothing compares to the cost per kWh, hassle-free scheduling, and having energy available the moment you need it.

Ready to switch to a cost-effective home charging solution? Contact Oakwood Electric & Generator today to set up a Level 2 home charger that matches your lifestyle and maximizes your savings. We handle everything, from panel checks to installation, so you get convenience and cost savings without the hassle.