How Much Does It Cost to Fully Charge an EV? Home Charging vs Public Fast Charging

As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to gain traction across Europe, a key question echoes among new and potential EV drivers:

‘Is it really cheaper to charge at home? Or are public charging stations more convenient despite the price tag?’

In this blog, we break down real charging costs, compare different methods across countries, and help you make informed decisions on EV charging costs in Europe.

✅Home VS  Public Charging Rates Across Europe

Let’s start by comparing average electricity prices per kWh across five major European countries for three typical scenarios. 

Home Charging (Daytime Tariff)

Home Charging (Off-Peak / Night Tariff)

Public Fast Charging

This is where the price difference becomes striking.

Average Electricity Prices by Charging Method (€ / kWh)

Key insights:

Home charging at night is significantly cheaper across all countries — especially in France and Spain.

Public fast charging is convenient but comes at a premium — often 2 to 3 times more expensive than off-peak home charging.

Germany shows the largest gap between home and public rates, making home charging more financially attractive.

✅How Much Does It Cost to Fully Charge an EV?

Assume you drive a typical EV with a 60kWh battery (such as a Tesla Model 3, Renault Mégane E-Tech, or Hyundai Kona EV).

Here’s how much it would cost to fully charge it under different methods.

Total Cost to Fully Charge a 60kWh EV (€)

Observations:

Off-peak home charging saves €15–€25 per full charge compared to public charging.

Charging at home even at daytime rates is still far cheaper in most countries.

Over the course of a year, the savings could total hundreds of euros, especially for high-mileage drivers.

✅Home Charging: Why It’s the Smarter Choice

Besides cost, charging at home offers comfort and long-term benefits:

Always ready: Charge overnight, no waiting in line or wasting time at stations.

Safe and private: No risk of broken public chargers or parking disputes.

Smart integration: Use time-of-use tariffs, solar panels, or even home battery storage to boost efficiency.

Many drivers are switching to 7kW or 22kW wallbox chargers which are perfectly suited for overnight full charges.

📌If you want to charge your car at off-peak, you can consider home charging. For example, an APP-controlled EV charging station OR a portable EV charger with timed & delayed functions.

✅When You Still Need Public Fast Charging

Public fast chargers are essential in some situations, despite their cost:

On-the-go trips and highway driving;

Urban dwellers without private parking;

Emergencies or when you need fast top-ups.

However, frequent use of public charging can significantly increase your total cost of ownership.

✅Final Takeaway: Want to Save Money? Invest in Home Charging

If your home setup allows it, a home EV charger is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make.

Save over €500 per year on charging costs alone;

Future-proof your home for the EV era;

Take control of your energy.

Whether you're in France, Germany, or elsewhere in Europe — Home EV Charging wins.