Compare annual fuel costs between Tesla and traditional gas vehicles. Calculate potential savings based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and vehicle efficiency ratings.
This page includes an interactive cost calculator, detailed comparison analysis, fuel savings breakdown, environmental impact data, and answers to frequently asked questions about Tesla vs gas car ownership costs.
Average US driver: 12,000-15,000 miles/year
Current US average: $3.50/gallon
Average US rate: $0.13/kWh
Enter your details and click "Compare Costs" to see your potential savings with Tesla.
Follow these simple steps to compare Tesla and gas car costs accurately
Choose your Tesla model or enter custom efficiency
Input your annual driving miles
Choose comparable gas vehicle efficiency
Enter local gas and electricity rates
Compare similar vehicle classes. Model Y vs mid-size SUV, Model 3 vs compact sedan for fair comparison.
Check GasBuddy for current gas prices and your utility bill for electricity rates in your area.
City driving favors Tesla efficiency more than highway. Adjust expectations based on your typical routes.
Home charging is cheapest. If you rely on public charging, costs will be higher than calculated.
Comprehensive analysis of costs, benefits, and considerations
Electricity typically costs 50-70% less than gasoline per mile. Home charging maximizes savings.
No oil changes, fewer moving parts, regenerative braking reduces brake wear. Save $400-800/year.
Zero direct emissions, increasingly clean grid electricity, lower lifetime carbon footprint.
Instant torque, over-the-air updates, advanced autopilot, premium technology features.
Generally lower upfront cost, though Tesla prices have become more competitive recently.
Gas stations everywhere, 5-minute refueling, no range anxiety for long trips.
Widespread service centers, independent mechanics, familiar technology for repairs.
No need for home charging installation, works with existing infrastructure.
Model 3 vs 30 MPG car
$0.13/kWh vs $3.50/gal
Save $1,200/year
Model Y vs 25 MPG SUV
$0.15/kWh vs $3.75/gal
Save $2,100/year
Model S vs 28 MPG sedan
$0.12/kWh vs $3.60/gal
Save $2,800/year
This comparison tool helps you understand the real-world cost differences between owning a Tesla and a traditional gas vehicle. Calculate potential fuel savings, compare total ownership costs, and make informed decisions based on your specific driving habits and local energy prices.
Most Tesla owners save $800–$2,000 per year in fuel costs, depending on driving habits, local electricity rates, and the gas car being replaced. Higher mileage drivers see greater savings.
Yes, Tesla maintenance typically costs 40-50% less than gas cars. No oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking significantly reduce maintenance needs and costs over time.
Public charging reduces savings but Teslas can still be cost-competitive. Supercharger rates are typically $0.28-0.32/kWh, still often cheaper per mile than gas, especially for efficient Tesla models.
Tesla prices have become more competitive, especially with federal tax credits up to $7,500. When factoring in fuel savings and lower maintenance, total cost of ownership often favors Tesla within 3-5 years.
Yes, electricity rates vary widely by region ($0.10-0.30+/kWh). Even in high-cost areas, Tesla efficiency and time-of-use rates often maintain cost advantages over gas vehicles.
Explore our other Tesla calculators to get comprehensive insights into your EV ownership costs and planning.