As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to reshape how we think about transportation, one of the most important decisions every EV owner must make involves where to charge their vehicle. While public charging stations offer quick access on-the-go, many drivers now realize that home charging can be far more cost-effective and reliable over time.
At All City Electric, we’ve worked with thousands of EV owners across New Jersey to help them cut down on charging expenses, tap into local rebate programs, and enjoy the everyday convenience of charging right from their garage or driveway. So, what’s the real financial difference between public charging and home charging? Let’s break it down.
The True Cost of Public EV Charging
Public EV chargers are becoming more accessible, especially in cities and along major highways. But that convenience often comes with a price. Most public Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers charge between $0.28 and $0.69 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which costs significantly more than what you’d pay at home. Some networks tack on idle fees if your car stays plugged in after charging, and others push monthly subscriptions that can add recurring costs even if you don’t charge often. On top of that, there’s the inconvenience—finding an available charger, waiting in line, or detouring from your route all eats up time.
If you’re using public stations regularly, especially DC Fast Chargers, your monthly EV charging costs can rival or even exceed the cost of gasoline. What looks like a simple transition from electric to gasoline can become a major budget drain over time.
Why Home EV Charging Costs Less
Charging your EV at home with a professionally installed Level 2 charger can be a game-changer in terms of cost. In New Jersey, the average residential electricity rate hovers around $0.16 per kWh—often less than half of what public chargers demand. That means every mile you drive costs significantly less when charged at home.
There’s also the added benefit of stability. You’re paying your utility standard rate without any hidden fees, and your charger will be ready when you are. Many New Jersey utility companies even offer time-of-use plans, letting you take advantage of even lower rates when charging overnight. And thanks to generous state and utility rebates, homeowners can offset installation costs by up to $1,500.
For the average EV owner, making the switch from public to home charging can cut monthly costs by 40% to 60%. The savings matter—and they add up fast.
A Quick Cost Comparison of EV Chargers
Let’s say your EV uses about 30 kWh per 100 miles, and you drive roughly 1,000 miles each month. That’s 300 kWh of electricity needed monthly. If you rely on public charging at $0.40 per kWh, your monthly cost lands around $120. But if you charge at home at $0.16 per kWh, that same 1,000 miles only costs $48.
That’s a monthly savings of $72—or $864 a year. Over five years, you could save more than $4,000, which is more than enough to cover the cost of equipment and installation, especially with rebate incentives factored in.
What You’ll Pay to Install a Home EV Charger
The total cost for a Level 2 home charger typically falls between $600.00 and $2,000. This depends on factors like your home’s existing electrical panel, the distance from the panel to your garage, and the brand of charger you choose. Fortunately, New Jersey utilities will now step up to help cover those costs.
PSE&G, JCP&L, and Orange/Rockland all offer generous rebates—not only for the charger itself but also for necessary service upgrades. These incentives reduce your upfront investment while also supporting New Jersey’s push toward cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions.
With All City Electric, you won’t have to navigate the rebate process alone. We’ll assess your setup, recommend the right charger for your needs, and handle every step of the paperwork.
When Public EV Charging Still Has Its Place
You'll still encounter scenarios when public charging makes sense. If you live in an apartment or condo without access to private parking, public chargers may be your only option. They’re also useful for road trips or when you’re far from home and need a quick tip-off.
But relying solely on public charging day to day quickly becomes expensive and inconvenient. Most EV owners find that the best approach tends to be a hybrid model—charge at home regularly and turn to public stations only when necessary.
The Bottom Line: Home EV Charging Wins
Between lower electricity rates, generous rebate programs, and the ease of plugging in at home, residential EV charging is the smarter, more cost-effective choice for New Jersey drivers. The savings speak for themselves—and the convenience cannot be beaten.
At All City Electric, we’ve installed more than 15,000 EV chargers across Union, Essex, Bergen and Somerset Counties. Our licensed electricians are certified to install all major brands, including Tesla, Wallbox, ChargePoint, and more. As official PSE&G Trade Allies, we’re also your go-to partner for help with navigating your rebate application.
If you’re ready to stop overpaying for public chargers and want a faster, smarter way to charge at home, we’re here to help. Call us today at (908) 497-9977 or request a quote online to schedule your in-home consultation with All City Electric.
