The 9 Best States to Own an EV

Are you considering purchasing an electric vehicle (EV) in the United States and need help determining the best place to own one? With the rising popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), some states are taking measures to encourage their adoption through tax incentives, rebates, and infrastructure development.

These states have made owning an electric vehicle (EV) more convenient and cost-effective, thus increasing its appeal to potential buyers. In this article, we’ll be looking at the 9 best states to own an EV based on factors like charging infrastructure, cost of ownership, and government incentives.

How We Measured the Best States

We evaluated the best states for owning an electric vehicle based on five key criteria. Firstly, we assessed each state’s availability of charging infrastructure. Secondly, we looked into any EV rebates or incentives offered by each government.

Thirdly, we considered the average electricity costs in each state. Fourthly, we considered which EV models could be purchased there. Finally, we assessed each state’s commitment to renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions.

Utilizing these five factors, we assigned a score to each state and ranked them accordingly. Charging infrastructure was given the highest weightage in our analysis as it is essential to owning an electric vehicle. We looked into the number of public charging stations per capita, their ease of access, as well as fast-charging options available at these stations.

The second most influential factor was the number of electric vehicle rebates and incentives provided by the state government. We investigated how much financial assistance the government gave to EV owners, whether they offered tax credits, and what criteria qualified them for these incentives.

The average cost of electricity was another important factor to consider since it directly affects the expense of owning and running an electric vehicle (EV). We compared the average cost per kilowatt-hour across each state with respect to the national average.

The team considered the range of available electric models in each state, giving consumers more choices and flexibility in selecting an EV that meets their needs.

In the end, we examined the state’s commitment to renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. This included its renewable energy targets, implementation of clean energy policies, as well as investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The states listed below appear in no particular order.

The 9 Best States to Own an EV

#1: California

California is considered an ideal state for electric vehicle ownership for several reasons. First, the state offers incentives and rebates for new EV purchases, used EVs, and home charging station installations in certain areas.

Similarly, electricity costs tend to be lower in California, making EV ownership cheaper than gasoline-powered cars. California is the only state allowed to create emissions standards under the Clean Air Act. This has led to strict regulations for cleaner cars and fuels, making them highly eco-friendly by design.

California has set a goal to have all new passenger cars and trucks sold in the state be zero-emission vehicles by 2035, further encouraging EV adoption. The state has the highest adoption rate and most public chargers per capita — nearly half of the US-registered EVs are on its roads.

Also, Los Angeles has several laws and incentives encouraging EV ownership and adoption. They include city-sponsored electric car-sharing programs, city-owned chargers, and access to HOV lanes specifically designated for electric vehicles.

California has made great strides toward electrification, yet some uncertainties still loom. By 2030, an estimated 3.7 million light-duty electric vehicles will be driving around California roads. However, they only account for 2.6% of peak-hour electricity use. Additionally, it remains uncertain whether those moving into the Golden State after 2035 will have access to pre-owned fossil fuel vehicles.

#2: Colorado

Colorado has quickly become one of the best states for electric vehicle (EV) owners thanks to its growing charging station network, strong government support, and innovative incentives. The state continues to lead by example as one of the most EV-friendly states in America.

Colorado has an impressive charging infrastructure network with over 4,500 plugs throughout the state, including hundreds of DC fast chargers. In addition, charging at home or work is now easier than ever as residents can install either a Level 1 or Level 2 charging station in their residences or workplaces. These options make owning an EV in Colorado more convenient and practical than ever before.

Second, the state government has taken an active role in encouraging EV adoption. In 2020, Colorado released the Colorado Electric Vehicle Plan 2020, which aims to transition the state’s transportation system towards zero-emission vehicles, with an end goal of 100% electric light-duty vehicles and 100% zero-emission medium and heavy-duty trucks by 2025.

Furthermore, through its Innovative Motor Vehicle and Innovative Truck Credit program, the state offers tax credits of up to $3,500 for light-duty electric trucks and $2,500 for new EVs in the 2022 tax year, further encouraging EV adoption across Colorado.

Colorado also has an active electric vehicle (EV) community and hosts frequent Ride and Drive events to test drive models and learn more about EVs. As a leader in innovation, Audi will offer its first electric vehicle, the e-Tron, to Colorado drivers regardless of whether or not there is a zero-emissions mandate implemented there.

#3: Vermont

According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), Vermont ranked seventh nationally for electric vehicle policy in 2021, scoring 49 out of 100 possible points. Furthermore, they submitted a deployment plan to the Federal Highway Administration in order to access funding for more public EV charging stations.

Vermont’s encouraging environment for electric vehicle ownership is further strengthened through various incentives. These include income-qualified statewide incentive programs for new plug-in EV purchases or leases, high fuel-efficiency used vehicle incentive programs, and initiatives to encourage cleaner alternatives to polluting cars.

Efficiency Vermont also provides up to $1,400 in rebates on electric vehicles (EVs), $500 for public/ workplace charging installations, and an additional $1,900 incentive on electric vehicles.

Vermont has more public charging stations per capita than any other state in America, ensuring that EV owners there can easily locate charging stations and enjoy long-distance travel without worrying about range anxiety.

#4: Massachusetts

Massachusetts is an ideal state to own an electric vehicle (EV) due to its ambitious, science-based net-zero emissions limit for 2050 that addresses emissions from transportation through electrification. The state offers various incentives and benefits to the EV industry.

They include 13 state incentives, six utility and private EV incentives, and a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. But the most popular is the MOR-EV Rebate Program in Massachusetts — see below for details.

Massachusetts has set ambitious targets for adopting zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs). By 2030, 30% of truck and bus sales should be ZEVs, aiming to achieve 100% by 2050. In addition, Massachusetts ranks highly regarding charging station availability, steadily continuing to install them.

Furthermore, Massachusetts boasts low car insurance costs and a relatively high ratio of electric vehicles compared to total registered vehicles. Massachusetts is committed to mitigating climate change’s worst impacts and creating a clean, affordable, and resilient transportation future for its residents.

Owning an electric vehicle (EV) in Massachusetts helps individuals reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. Also, drivers of electric cars in Massachusetts save money on gas costs over the duration of their car ownership.

#5: Hawaii

Hawaii is a good state for electric vehicle (EV) owners due to a range of factors. They include its clean energy goals, financial incentives, and expanding EV charging infrastructure.

The state has made significant progress towards meeting its clean energy objectives, with 35% of electricity generated from renewable sources by 2020. This means EVs running on Hawaii’s electric grid are cleaner than in states with higher percentages of fossil fuel-generated electricity.

Hawaii provides financial incentives for electric vehicle ownership, including tax credits, rebates, and grants that can significantly reduce the purchase price of an EV. Hawaii’s state government has also passed legislation mandating all motor pool fleet vehicles to zero emissions. This is an important step towards meeting Hawaii’s clean energy goals.

Hawaii has made significant progress in expanding its electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The state boasts 361 stations statewide and plans to add more. Although there is still a shortage of charging stations, efforts are being made to upgrade the infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for electric vehicle ownership.

Owning an electric vehicle (EV) in Hawaii aligns with the state’s culture and values, prioritizing sustainability and environmental protection. Owning an EV in Hawaii contributes to their clean energy goals and reduces harmful emissions that contribute to climate change.

#6: Rhode Island

Rhode Island is considered a state for electric vehicle (EV) ownership due to its supportive policies, incentives, and infrastructure. The state has actively promoted electric vehicles and reduced its carbon footprint through initiatives that promote cleaner transportation options.

One of the primary reasons Rhode Island is a great state for electric vehicle ownership is its extensive EV infrastructure. There are currently over 400 public charging stations within the state, and officials are actively investing in expanding their network along major highways, as well as planning maintenance and upgrades with federal funds.

Another reason why Rhode Island is attractive to electric vehicle (EV) owners are the incentives and rebates provided. Through the DriveEV program administered by the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER), buyers who lease new battery, fuel-cell, or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles can get rebates up to $2,500.

Additionally, there’s an Electric Vehicle Charging Station Incentive Program offering to fund for installation of EV charging stations with up to $1.4 million available in incentives. Rhode Island is considered ideal for owning electric vehicles (EVs) due to its strong commitment to sustainability and clean energy.

The state has set a goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45% below 1990 levels by 2030 and is making significant progress toward that objective. Owning an EV in Rhode Island makes economic sense and is environmentally responsible.

#7: Connecticut

The Connecticut Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Program is a comprehensive initiative that encourages developing charging infrastructure. This includes electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) and fast charging stations to create an autonomous zero-emission vehicle market.

Similarly, Connecticut encourages EV charger placement in homes, workplaces, and multimodal transportation hubs. These are places with special attention given to safe locations near public areas like grocery stores or malls.

Connecticut provides various incentives for electric vehicle ownership in addition to its charging infrastructure. The state offers rebates of up to $5,000 for eligible EV purchases or leases and up to $2,000 for plug-in hybrid purchases or leasing.

Connecticut’s policies promote environmental sustainability, making it a prime candidate for electric vehicle ownership. Its regulations align with the Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) program’s mission to transition towards zero-emission vehicles.

It does this while cutting greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. Again, Connecticut continues to explore ways to expand hydrogen refueling infrastructure to facilitate fuel cell EV adoption.

#8: New York

New York is ideal for owning an electric vehicle (EV). This is due to its progressive policies and initiatives promoting clean energy and sustainable transportation. The state has set ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner transportation. Therefore, they have implemented several incentives and programs to encourage EV adoption.

One of the major advantages of owning an electric vehicle in New York is the state’s rebate program. It offers up to $2,000 in incentives for purchasing or leasing a new electric vehicle. Similarly, a voucher incentive program covers up to 80% of any cost difference between an electric truck and its equivalent diesel truck for public or private fleets in 31 counties.

New York City is leading the charge toward electric vehicle adoption. The state has 120 curbside charging stations for users to rent by the hour. Again, the State of New York is developing an extensive network of public charging stations. Hence, EV owners can recharge while out and about.

New York has passed laws requiring all new off-road vehicles and equipment sold in the state to be zero-emissions by 2035, with the same applying to medium and heavy-duty trucks by 2045. These initiatives demonstrate the state’s dedication to cutting emissions while promoting clean transportation.

#9: Maine

Maine is ideal for electric vehicle (EV) owners for several reasons. First and foremost, Maine provides numerous state incentives and rebates to EV owners, making owning and maintaining an electric car much simpler.

For instance, residents who purchase or lease an EV receive a $2,000 rebate. Additionally, Maine provides several state tax credits of up to $75 per kilowatt-hour of battery capacity up to a maximum of $2,500. Therefore, it significantly reduces ownership costs associated with an EV.

Second, Maine boasts an extensive network of public charging stations that simplify driving an EV around the state. With over 100 stations located along major highways and popular destinations, EV owners can travel without worrying about range anxiety.

Maine’s dedication to renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions make it a prime choice for electric vehicle (EV) owners. The state has set an ambitious goal of reducing its emissions by 45% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 80% by 2050. This is through investments in clean energy technologies like wind and solar power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, several states have been ranked highly as the best places to own an electric vehicle. These rankings consider various metrics. They include rebates on all-electric and hybrid cars, the number of EV charging stations per capita, gas cost savings, and federal or local financial incentives.

Conversely, other states may not rank highly. This is due to low percentages of electric cars on roads, lack of EV charging ports, or difficulty purchasing directly from manufacturers.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Sport car hub/Shutterstock.com.