10 States Where It Costs More To Own an EV Than It’s Worth

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Electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity, with production increasing among most major automakers. It’s easy to see why, with a lower carbon footprint, and typically greater return on power costs than gasoline. Add in that the car can charge at home — no gas station stops needed — and even recharge off green energy for free, depending on your home energy setup: there’s a lot that’s attractive about these vehicles.

Buying an EV vs. a gas-powered car may not be as straightforward for first-time buyers, though. Among the most important considerations are the driving range and the ability to charge EVs on the road and at home, according to Cars.com.

How Much Do EV Drivers Save, Really?

Per Cars.com, it’s fair to expect a range of 300 miles, but that can vary based on your driving style, weather and the ability to charge at home. For those considering buying an EV, due diligence is necessary to assess how its powertrain might benefit, or disadvantage, you.

Although it’s possible to save money with an EV, the potential savings aren’t set in stone. Americans can save up to $8 per 100 miles driven with an EV, according to the New York Times, but that requires having an at-home charger and varies by state. That’s not to mention the loss of the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for new EVs and $4,000 for used EVs. Those federal tax credits expired on September 30, 2025, but some states do still offer credits.

There’s a lot to consider when purchasing an EV, as some states make owning one more challenging. In a recent study, Law Bear identified the ten states where it costs more to own an EV than it’s worth, based on registered EVs per charging station and port, EV purchase tax credits, EV annual registration fees and inconvenience score.

10 States Where Owning an EV Can Be Inconvenient

1. New Jersey

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 74
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 22
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: Up to $4,000
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $260
• EV Inconvenience Score: 96

2. Hawaii

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 61
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 23
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $0
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $50
• EV Inconvenience Score: 92

3. California

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 62
• Registered EVs per Charging Port:17
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $0
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $118
• EV Inconvenience Score: 87

4. Washington

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 51
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 18
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $0
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $150
• EV Inconvenience Score: 85

5. Nevada

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 69
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 16
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $0
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $0
• EV Inconvenience Score: 82

6. Alaska

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 34
• Registered EVs per Charging Port:13
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $0
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $0
• EV Inconvenience Score: 81

7. Texas

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 55
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 17
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $0
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $200
• EV Inconvenience Score: 80

8. Arizona

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 56
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 18
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $0
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $0
• EV Inconvenience Score: 78

9. New York

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 25
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 7
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: Up to $2,000
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $0
• EV Inconvenience Score: 73

10. Illinois

• Registered EVs per Charging Station: 54
• Registered EVs per Charging Port: 17
• EV Purchase Tax Credit: $4,000
• EV Annual Registration Fee: $100
• EV Inconvenience Score: 72

With rising electricity rates, and a high entry cost, EVs can belie the dream of cheap, renewable commuting. Add in that most models of these automobiles depreciate in value — though not necessarily performance — faster than internal-combustion rides, and they look like less of a sure bet.

However, if you have the means to recharge at low cost, or intend to hold on to your vehicle as long as possible, it may still be worth buying one in the states above. Owning an EV can save money, but it’s not a guarantee. Thoughtful research can help you decide whether the savings are worth it for you.

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