Law reference: California Vehicle Code 9250.6
Source: afdc.energy.gov
Note: Indexed to CPI (Road Improvement Fee).
California EV Charging Costs (2026)
Data updated: March 5, 2026
California is the largest EV market in the U.S., but it is also one of the highest-cost states for residential electricity. For most drivers, the biggest cost lever is not the vehicle itself, but when charging happens. Shifting charging away from late-afternoon peak windows can materially improve monthly cost outcomes, especially in high-usage households.
Average Rate
$0.35/kWh
Rank #49 out of 50
EV Adoption
7.2%
State adoption estimate
California Electricity Rates
Current rates by utility territory, with EV program details.
$0.35/kWh
$0.17/kWh above US average
Public Level 2 (est.): $0.41/kWh ($0.35-$0.54/kWh)
Public DC fast (est.): $0.65/kWh ($0.57-$0.78/kWh)
Estimated public charging prices derived from local electricity rates. Actual prices vary by network, location, and fees.
Time-of-use EV plans can materially lower overnight charging costs.
| Utility | Avg Rate |
|---|---|
| Pacific Gas & Electric Co. | $0.44/kWh |
| Southern California Edison Co | $0.35/kWh |
| Los Angeles Department of Water & Power | $0.26/kWh |
| San Diego Gas & Electric Co | $0.48/kWh |
| Modesto Irrigation District | $0.24/kWh |
Utility Context for California EV Drivers
California investor-owned utilities use time-of-use structures for EV-focused plans. Peak windows are typically in the 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. range, so scheduled charging remains the most practical way to manage cost.
- PG&E EV plans (including EV2-A/EV-B pathways) use TOU pricing; EV2-A guidance emphasizes lower-price charging outside the 4-9 p.m. peak window.
- SCE highlights TOU-D-PRIME for EV and electrified-home customers, with highest pricing in the 4-9 p.m. period and lower pricing outside that window.
- SDG&E EV-oriented residential plans (EV-TOU-5 and TOU-ELEC) are also TOU-based; TOU-ELEC publishes a 4-9 p.m. on-peak period and lower super off-peak windows.
- Plan details can vary by season, billing component, and provider setup (utility + CCA), so drivers should verify current tariff sheets before switching plans.
Rates updated monthly | Source: EIA and utility filings.
California EV Registration Fee
EV Charging Costs by City in California
View more California cities ->| City | Avg Rate | Monthly Cost Estimate | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $0.26/kWh | $68.42/month | View city page -> |
| San Diego | $0.48/kWh | $126.32/month | View city page -> |
| San Jose | $0.44/kWh | $115.79/month | View city page -> |
| San Francisco | $0.44/kWh | $115.79/month | View city page -> |
| Fresno | $0.44/kWh | $115.79/month | View city page -> |
How California Compares to Nearby States
Calculate Your California EV Charging Costs
Start with your ZIP code and EV model to open the full savings calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to charge an EV in California?
Home charging in California averages around $0.35/kWh. Public Level 2 sessions are estimated around $0.35-$0.54/kWh, while DC fast charging is estimated around $0.57-$0.78/kWh depending on network and membership. Final cost can also include session or idle fees.
What is the cheapest time to charge an EV in California?
Overnight off-peak windows are usually the lowest-cost charging period in California. Check your local utility TOU schedule to confirm eligible hours and price windows.
How much does it cost to fully charge a Tesla Model Y in California?
Charging a Tesla Model Y from near-empty in California costs approximately $26.57 at home, $31.12 at a public Level 2 station, and $49.34 at a DC fast charger, based on EPA efficiency of 25.3 kWh/100 miles and an estimated 300-mile range.
Is home charging cheaper than public fast charging in California?
Yes - at $0.35/kWh, home charging in California costs 46% less per kWh than DC fast charging.
Ready to calculate your exact charging costs in California?
Enter your ZIP code and EV model to get a personalized monthly charging estimate in under 30 seconds.
Internal Resources
Data updated monthly where available.