Here’s What It Costs To Charge a Tesla Monthly vs Using Gas for a Kia Sportage

hapabapa / iStock.com

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution can save both the planet and your wallet. For many, the monthly cost to charge a Tesla is by far more favorable than shelling out cash at the pump for a gas-powered crossover like the Kia Sportage.

Let’s break down the numbers and see just how much you could save by going electric.

Monthly Cost of Tesla and Kia Sportage

• Telsa EV: around $70 per month
• Kia Sportage: $123 to $201 per month

Cost Comparison of Electric vs. Gas Vehicles

Even using conservative figures, charging a Tesla at home is 40% to 65% cheaper per mile than fueling a gas SUV. That translates into monthly savings of $60 to $130, or roughly $700 to $1,600 annually.

Charging a Tesla

Recent data from Solar Reviews shows the average cost to fully charge a Tesla at home in 2025 ranges between $10.98 and $18, depending on the model and local electricity rates.

On average, looking at U.S. households, charging a Tesla costs around $15.52 per full charge, equating to just $0.045 per mile.

If you drive the average American’s 1,200 miles per month (14,263 miles per year, per Zebra), you’ll likely consume about 402 kWh. At a typical household rate (about 17.45 cents per kWh), that adds up to about $70 per month, assuming most charging is done at home.

Supercharging is around 50% to 100% more expensive than home charging. Public fast charging often runs between $0.25 to $0.60 per kWh, translating to full charges of $25 to $70, depending on your Tesla’s battery size and location.

Fueling a Kia Sportage

Shifting gears to a gas-burning Kia Sportage, the costs change dramatically. Edmunds provides a monthly fuel estimate of $123 (Texas average) to $201 (California sample) for a mid-size gas Sportage that averages around 28 MPG.

Real-World Considerations That Affect Costs

Monthly EV or gas expenses aren’t set in stone. Variables such as battery size, electricity rates, route choices, driving habits and incentives can significantly impact the final price.

For Tesla Drivers

• Different battery capacities mean the cost can vary. A Model 3 (~60 kWh) might cost $9.20 with a home charge, while a Model S/X (~100 kWh) is closer to $16.
• Local electricity rates (11 to 17 cents per kWh) change monthly totals; charging at 16 cents per kWh versus 11 cents per kWh means paying 45% more.
• Opting for off-peak rates or smart charging can help reduce costs by shifting charging to lower-rate periods.
• Public fast chargers (such as Superchargers or third-party options) often cost 50 to 100% more than home charging. 
• Idle or congestion fees may apply at busy Superchargers when cars remain plugged in after charging is complete.
• Cold weather can reduce an EV’s range by up to 39%.
• Driving on a highway will be more efficient than driving in the city.
• Maintenance savings, tax credits and perks like HOV lane access further tilt the scales in favor of EVs.

For Kia Drivers

• Fuel prices vary regionally, according to AAA. On the extreme side, for example, Hawaii’s gas prices are $4.46 per gallon, whereas Texas’s gas prices are $2.78 per gallon.
• Driving style (city versus highway, acceleration behavior, etc.) influences MPG. The Kia Sportage averages 25 in the city and 32 on the highway.
• Gas price volatility means monthly costs can spike, especially during supply disruptions.
• Maintenance, such as oil changes, adds cost, and missed MPG estimates due to driving conditions can result in unexpected fuel expenses.

Final Verdict

For drivers covering typical monthly mileage (~1,200 miles), charging a Tesla at home costs roughly $70 per month, while fueling a gas Kia Sportage runs between $120 and $200 per month, depending on the region and usage. 

That’s a clear saving of $50 to $130 monthly, or $600 to $1,600 annually, before even factoring in tax credits or lower maintenance.

As electricity rates climb, the gap will begin to narrow, sure, but for most suburban and urban drivers with home charging, Tesla EV ownership is both environmentally beneficial and financially rewarding each month.

Share This Article: