How to use this ranking
- Home charging is the biggest practical advantage for many used EV buyers.
- Insurance and tires can erase part of the energy savings.
- Battery health, range needs, and remaining warranty are more important than generic averages.
Used EVs ranked by true monthly ownership cost.
EVs can cut fuel and maintenance costs, but insurance, tires, battery condition, charging access, range, and depreciation can change the decision. The right EV depends on your real charging setup and driving pattern.
Compare finalists in the calculatorRanked shortlist
What can flip this ranking?
- Home charging is the big separator. Public-charging dependence can erase the low energy-cost line.
- Battery health, winter/highway range, insurance, and tire wear can flip the ranking quickly.
- Smaller EVs can look cheap and sane if your daily range needs are predictable.
Scoring note
CarCostMath uses a transparent planning score from visible monthly estimates. It is not a proprietary reliability score, expert award, or guarantee. Your insurance quote, financing, local costs, and inspection can change the result.
Full comparison table
On small screens, swipe the table sideways to see every cost line.
| Rank | Vehicle | Total monthly | Fuel | Insurance | Maintenance + repair | Depreciation | Planning score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2020 Nissan Leaf | $694/mo | $13 | $140 | $130 | $117 | 98 |
| 2 | 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV | $714/mo | $12 | $145 | $125 | $112 | 96 |
| 3 | 2021 Tesla Model 3 | $1,140/mo | $11 | $210 | $140 | $186 | 68 |
| 4 | 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E | $1,202/mo | $16 | $200 | $140 | $219 | 64 |
FAQ
Are used EVs cheaper to own?
Sometimes. Energy and routine maintenance can be lower, but insurance, tires, depreciation, range, and battery health can offset savings.
What should I verify on a used EV?
Battery health, charging speed, range in your climate, home charging access, remaining warranty, tire condition, and insurance quote.
Why are EV tire costs higher in some estimates?
EV weight and instant torque can increase tire wear, especially on performance trims or heavy crossovers.