What’s the Cheapest Electric Vehicle to Drive in 2025—and Where Is It Most Affordable to Own an EV?

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, as electric vehicles (EVs) continue to reshape the American auto market, many consumers are asking: Which EV is the most economical to run, and where is it cheapest to drive one? Our updated 2025 report answers both questions, offering insights on the most cost-efficient electric vehicles and the U.S. states where EV ownership is the most affordable.

EV Adoption Is On the Rise—Despite Policy Rollbacks

By late 2024, EVs made up 10.6% of all new vehicle sales in the United States, a jump from 7.6% in 2022. This growth has continued even after federal policy changes in 2025—including a rollback of EV tax credits and emissions standards under the Trump administration.

What’s driving this surge? Younger generations like Gen Z and Millennials are leading the charge, with 60–70% expressing strong interest in EVs. Meanwhile, improvements in battery technology, reduced maintenance costs, and more charging stations are making EVs increasingly appealing to first-time buyers.

Top 3 Cheapest Electric Vehicles to Drive in 2025

Based on average national electricity rates and real-world driving data, here are the most cost-effective EVs to operate, ranked by how far $100 worth of electricity will take you.

1. Tesla Model 3 – Best Overall Value

• Battery: 57.5 kWh

• Range: 260 miles

• Cost per 100 miles: $3.60

• Miles per $100: 2,781

The Tesla Model 3 remains the most economical EV to drive in 2025. It offers exceptional energy efficiency without sacrificing performance or comfort.

2. Tesla Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor

• Battery: 75 kWh

• Range: 325 miles

• Cost per 100 miles: $3.75

• Miles per $100: 2,665

For those who want extra range and all-wheel drive, the Long Range version is still very budget-friendly.

3. BMW i4 eDrive35

• Battery: 67.1 kWh

• Range: 265 miles

• Cost per 100 miles: $4.12

• Miles per $100: 2,429

The BMW i4 offers a luxury EV experience while maintaining solid charging efficiency.

Full Rankings: Cheapest EVs to Run

Top 3 States Where EVs Are Cheapest to Run

EV efficiency depends on local electricity prices, and in some states, charging is dramatically more affordable.

1. North Dakota – #1 Cheapest State

• Average cost to charge: $5.87

• Miles per $100: 4,003

2. Nebraska

• Cost to charge: $6.20

• Miles per $100: 3,791

3. Idaho

• Cost to charge: $6.31

• Miles per $100: 3,726

If you live in these states, you could pay less than $6.50 to fully charge a Tesla Model 3—a massive saving compared to gasoline.

States Where EV Charging Costs Increased the Most

Not every state saw savings. In fact, Oregon experienced the steepest rise in EV running costs, with a 12% jump in electricity rates since last year, reducing cost-efficiency by 347 miles per $100.

Other states with major increases:

• New Jersey: 10.99%

• Kansas: 8.88%

• New York: 8.70%

• Massachusetts: 7.88%

But it’s not all bad news—Rhode Island, Alaska, and Florida saw significant drops in energy costs, increasing how far EV drivers can go per charge.

The Takeaway: EV Efficiency Depends on Where You Live

If you’re considering an electric vehicle in 2025, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Tesla Model 3 remains the cheapest EV to run nationwide

• North Dakota, Nebraska, and Idaho offer the lowest charging costs

• Energy prices—and state policies—can drastically affect your EV’s efficiency

About This Report

This data comes from Zutobi, a leader in online driver education committed to promoting safe and informed driving. Our 2025 study builds on previous years and uses updated information from the U.S. Energy Information Administration and Electric Vehicle Database.

Looking to compare data year-over-year?
📥 [Read the 2021 Report]
📥 [Read the 2022 Report]