EV and time-of-use electricity rates in the U.S.

Start with the average

The average U.S. home paid 18.16¢ per kWh in August 2026 (EIA Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A). That average hides big differences between states and utilities.

How EV and time-of-use plans work

• Whole-home time-of-use: the price depends on the hour. Overnight is cheapest, and late afternoon to evening is the expensive peak.
• EV-specific plans: some utilities price the charger separately, through a second meter or the car’s or charger’s own metering.
• Managed charging: some utilities pay a credit if you let them shift your charging.

Rates, hours and sign-up rules differ for every utility. We don’t quote them here because there’s no single official national list. Check your utility’s rate page, or search by state in the AFDC utility and state incentives database.

What a cheaper rate is worth

At 3.5 mi/kWh, 12,000 miles uses about 3,429 kWh. Every 5¢/kWh you save is about $171 a year. Time-of-use plans can also make other evening use more expensive, so compare a full year of bills, not only the charging rate.

About sales tax

US prices on this page are shown as published. Gas pump prices already include federal and state fuel taxes; electricity rates and public charging may have state and local sales tax added on top, and that varies by state, county and city, so we don't split it out. Check your bill or the charger app for the tax that applies to you.

Sources and dates

• Average residential electricity price, US (EIA EPM Table 5.6.A): www.eia.gov (Aug 2026; checked 24 Oct 2026)
• State and utility incentives: afdc.energy.gov (current; checked 24 Oct 2026)

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