As gas prices continue to rise and electric vehicles (EVs) become more popular, many drivers are wondering whether making the switch saves money month to month.
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The Tesla name has become almost synonymous with EVs, but how do charging costs stack up against fueling something like a Nissan Rogue, one of the most popular gas-powered SUVs in the U.S.?
The answer mostly comes down to three things: how much you drive, how you charge, and where you live. Let’s break down the monthly cost difference using average prices and typical driving habits.
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Tesla Charging Costs
We’ll use the Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive as our benchmark. According to Tesla, it consumes about 25 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per 100 miles.
The average U.S. residential electricity rate was 17.11 cents per kWh as of March 2025, per the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Assuming you drive 1,200 miles per month:
1,200 ÷ 100 x 25 kWh = 300 kWh used
300 kWh x $0.1711 = $51.33 per month
Most Tesla owners charge at home, but if you rely on Superchargers, where rates can range from around 25 cents to 60 cents per kWh depending on time and location, your monthly charging cost could land anywhere between $75 and $180, based on how much you drive.
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Nissan Rogue Fuel Costs
According to Nissan’s official website, the 2025 Rogue S and SV front-wheel-drive models have a 33 mpg combined fuel economy rating (30 city and 37 highway).
Assuming the same 1,200 miles per month:
1,200 ÷ 33 mpg = 36.36 gallons of gas
The national average gas price as of June 2025 is $3.14 per gallon, according to AAA
36.36 gallons x $3.14 = $114.16 per month
This can vary depending on local gas prices and your specific trim or drivetrain.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Vehicle | Monthly Mileage | Fuel Type | Efficiency | Monthly Cost |
Tesla Model 3 | 1,200 | Electricity | 25 kWh/100 miles | $51 |
Nissan Rogue | 1,200 | Gasoline | 33 mpg (FWD) | $114 |
Charging a Tesla at home saves about $63 per month or roughly $750 per year, compared to fueling a Rogue. While savings shrink if you rely on public charging, they can still be substantial.
Other Factors To Keep in Mind
While Tesla charging is cheaper, there are some upfront and ongoing costs to consider. Installing a home charger can cost between $500 and $1,500, depending on your electrical setup. Insurance premiums for EVs like Teslas may also be higher and repairs can be more expensive out of warranty.
That said, EVs typically require less maintenance, no oil changes, fewer moving parts and no transmission work. Meanwhile, the Rogue’s fuel economy may drop in cold weather or during stop-and-go city driving, potentially increasing your monthly gas bill.
Overall, Tesla Wins in the ‘Fuel’ Department
If you’re charging at home, a Tesla is significantly cheaper to “fuel” each month than a Nissan Rogue. While exact savings depend on your location and driving habits, most EV owners can expect to spend far less on energy costs, making the switch not just environmentally friendly, but also financially wise.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Here’s What It Costs To Charge a Tesla Monthly vs. Using Gas for a Nissan Rogue
