Thinking about going electric with a Tesla Model S, but not sure how much it’ll cost to keep it charged? You’re not alone. In 2025, with fluctuating energy prices and charging options, calculating the real cost to charge a Tesla Model S can get confusing — but don’t worry, we’ll break it down for you clearly and simply.
Tesla Model S Charging Costs: The Short Answer
On average, charging a Tesla Model S costs between $10 and $30 per full charge, depending on where and how you charge it.
Let’s look at the two main factors:
- Your electricity rate (home or public)
- Your battery size and efficiency
- The Tesla Model S Long Range has a 100 kWh battery
- Gets roughly 3.6 miles per kWh
Charging at Home: Most Cost-Effective Option
If you charge at home (Level 2 charger), you’ll typically pay $0.10–$0.18 per kWh depending on your location and utility provider.
Example:
- 100 kWh × $0.15 = $15 per full charge
- That gives you
360 miles of range → **$0.04 per mile**
💡 Pro Tip: Charging overnight during off-peak hours can save you up to 30%.
Charging at Superchargers: Speed vs. Cost
Tesla Superchargers are fast and convenient, especially for road trips — but they cost more than home charging.
- Current Supercharger rate: ~$0.25–$0.50 per kWh (location-dependent)
- Full charge at $0.40/kWh = $40
This makes it roughly 2.5× more expensive than home charging, but far more convenient if you need a fast top-up.
🔌 Public Charging Stations: Mixed Bag
Public chargers like EVgo, ChargePoint, or Electrify America offer Level 2 and DC Fast Charging.
Rates vary:
- Level 2: ~$0.20–$0.30/kWh
- DC Fast Charging: ~$0.35–$0.50/kWh
Tip: Some locations charge by time instead of kWh, which can cost more if your Tesla reduces charging speed near full capacity.
💰 Monthly Charging Cost Breakdown
How much does it cost per month to charge a Tesla Model S, assuming average driving?
- Average monthly mileage: ~1,200 miles
- Average efficiency: 3.6 mi/kWh
- kWh needed: ~333
- At home (avg $0.15/kWh) = ~$50/month
- At Superchargers (avg $0.40/kWh) = ~$133/month
You can cut your charging bill in half by charging mostly at home.
🛡️ EV Insurance Tip: Save on Charging-Related Coverage
Here’s where you can boost your savings: some insurance providers now offer discounts for electric vehicle owners, including perks like:
- Coverage for home charging equipment
- Lower premiums for eco-friendly driving behavior
- EV roadside assistance packages
👉 Platforms like The Zebra, Policygenius, or Jerry let you compare EV-specific policies that consider Tesla Autopilot use, charging behavior, and battery warranties.
This is especially important for Model S owners, whose replacement battery cost can exceed $15,000 — so make sure you’re fully covered.
📊 Cost Comparison: Tesla Model S vs. Gas Cars
Let’s compare the Tesla Model S to a luxury gas sedan like a BMW 7 Series:
| Car | Fuel/Charging Cost (Monthly) | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model S (home charging) | ~$50 | ~$600 |
| BMW 7 Series (premium gas) | ~$250 | ~$3,000 |
That’s $2,400+ in yearly savings, just on fuel alone.
⚙️ Extra Factors That Affect Charging Costs
- Battery degradation: Older batteries charge less efficiently
- Driving style: Aggressive driving reduces range
- Climate: Cold weather = more energy use
- Charging speed: Fast chargers are less energy-efficient than slower ones
Final Thoughts: Charging Costs Are Manageable — If You Plan Smart
So, how much does it cost to charge a Tesla Model S? As low as $10–15 per full charge at home, or up to $40 at Superchargers. With home charging and smart planning, you’ll keep costs low while enjoying all the luxury performance Tesla offers.
