With electric vehicles (EVs) becoming an increasingly common sight on Canadian roads, more drivers are seriously considering the switch from gas-powered to electric cars. One of the most frequent questions potential EV owners ask is: how much does it cost to charge an electric car in Canada?
Unlike traditional vehicles, the cost to “fuel” an electric car depends on a variety of factors—from electricity rates and battery sizes to how and where you charge. This article offers a comprehensive breakdown of EV charging costs across Canada in 2025.
Before we dive into costs, it’s important to understand the three primary types of EV charging:
This is the slowest method, using a standard household outlet. It adds roughly 6–8 km of range per hour. While no special equipment is required, it’s only practical for plug-in hybrids or very low daily driving needs.
Level 2 charging is the most common for EV owners at home. It requires a dedicated charger, typically installed in a garage or driveway, and can add about 30–50 km of range per hour depending on the vehicle. Installation costs range from $500 to $2,000, depending on your electrical setup and charger brand.
Used primarily in public networks and on highways, these chargers deliver rapid charging—up to 80% in 20–40 minutes. They’re ideal for road trips but are more expensive and not typically installed at home.
Most Canadian EV owners do the bulk of their charging at home. Electricity prices vary by province, but on average, Canadians pay $0.14 per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
To estimate charging costs, consider the following example:
| Battery Size | Approx. Range | Full Charge Cost (@ $0.14/kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| 40 kWh | 150–200 km | $5.60 |
| 60 kWh | 300–400 km | $8.40 |
| 75 kWh | 400–500 km | $10.50 |
| 100 kWh | 500–600 km | $14.00 |
This method is not only cost-effective, but also convenient—especially when combined with time-of-use electricity rates that reward off-peak charging, usually at night.
Many urban centers and shopping plazas offer Level 2 chargers. Some are free (offered by businesses or municipalities), while others charge by the hour or per kWh.
While slightly more expensive than home charging, public Level 2 stations are still a relatively affordable option.
DC fast charging is significantly quicker, making it ideal for long-distance travel. However, this speed comes at a higher cost.
Because of the price and potential wear on batteries, DC fast charging is best used occasionally rather than daily.
Canada’s electricity prices vary significantly between provinces, which can affect your EV operating costs.
| Province | Avg. Cost/kWh | Full Charge (60 kWh) | Monthly Cost (1,500 km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quebec | $0.073 | $4.38 | ~$23.66 |
| BC | $0.123 | $7.38 | ~$33.21 |
| Ontario | $0.14 (avg.) | $8.40 | ~$37.80 |
| Alberta | $0.165 | $9.90 | ~$44.55 |
| Manitoba | $0.093 | $5.58 | ~$28.89 |
| Nova Scotia | $0.164 | $9.84 | ~$44.28 |
Note: Some provinces offer tiered or time-of-use pricing. For example, in Ontario, off-peak rates can be as low as $0.08/kWh, making overnight charging particularly economical.
EV drivers across Canada have access to several public charging networks:
These networks charge per use or offer subscription-based plans. Membership benefits may include reduced per-kWh pricing, priority access, or monthly credits.
It’s worth comparing rates and locations before committing to a plan, especially if you rely heavily on public infrastructure.
Let’s compare a typical electric car with a gas-powered equivalent:
| Vehicle Type | Cost per 100 km | Annual Cost (20,000 km) |
|---|---|---|
| EV (18 kWh/100 km) | ~$2.52 | ~$504 |
| Gas (8 L/100 km) | ~$12.80 (at $1.60/L) | ~$2,560 |
Annual savings: $2,000+—and this doesn’t include savings from reduced maintenance (no oil changes, fewer moving parts, regenerative braking, etc.).
To encourage EV adoption, both federal and provincial governments offer incentives that reduce the cost of purchasing EVs and installing chargers:
These rebates can significantly reduce upfront costs, making EV ownership more accessible.
Charging an electric car in Canada is remarkably cost-effective, especially when compared to gasoline. While upfront EV prices and charger installation can be high, the long-term savings on fuel and maintenance are substantial. Most Canadians can expect to pay $30–$50/month for home charging—far less than what they’d spend at the pump.
If you’re considering making the switch, factor in your location, driving habits, access to public chargers, and eligibility for incentives. Over time, the benefits—both financial and environmental—are well worth the investment.
