EV vs Gas Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Calculator (2026)
Compare the real ownership cost of EV vs gas using the five major buckets: energy/fuel, maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and upfront incentives.
The Verdict
Gas TCO (5 years)
$36,931.28
EV TCO (5 years)
$34,774.28
Difference (EV - Gas)
$-2,157.00
Negative means EV is cheaper.
EV wins by $2,157.00.
Break-even point: Year 1, Month 1.
Estimated hidden savings: 15.5 hours saved over 5 years.
Break-even Visual
| Year | Gas Cumulative | EV Cumulative | Delta (EV - Gas) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $11,895.00 | $7,487.70 | $-4,407.30 |
| 2 | $19,665.00 | $17,095.40 | $-2,569.60 |
| 3 | $25,972.50 | $23,572.70 | $-2,399.80 |
| 4 | $31,744.50 | $29,279.44 | $-2,465.06 |
| 5 | $36,931.28 | $34,774.28 | $-2,157.00 |
Need context behind the numbers?
Confused by the insurance assumptions? Read: EV vs. Gas TCO in 2026: Is the Electric Premium Finally Dead? for the 2026 EV insurance surcharge context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an EV worth it if I drive 20,000 miles a year?
At high annual mileage, lower energy and maintenance costs often accelerate EV break-even, especially with strong home charging access.
How does gas vs electric TCO behave with high insurance rates?
Use the EV surcharge input to stress test conservative scenarios. Higher EV insurance can delay break-even, especially at low mileage.
Can I compare Ford F-150 Lightning vs F-150 gas costs for 2026?
Yes. Select the built-in truck profiles and adjust mileage, rates, and charging share for a personalized comparison.