The Value of Adding a Home Car Charging Station

More than 1.5 million electric vehicles (EVs) were sold in the U.S. in 2023 — and that number is rising each year. Government and industry forecasts estimate that by 2030, more than 50% of new cars sold may be electric.

Today, most new homes in the U.S. are not equipped for electric car charging but many homes are EV charger ready — especially in states (such as California, Washington, Oregon and Colorado) where building codes specify EV-ready outlets and wiring.

Some builders offer an EV charger as a premium or upgrade option. During the build phase, equipping a new home with EV charging capability is relatively inexpensive at about $300-$1,000. Retrofitting this feature post-build can run $1,000–$2,500+, depending on location.

Building an EV Ready Home

Roughing in EV charging solutions in new homes is a valuable add-on for homebuyers who want access to EV charging at move-in, or those who want the choice to add charging capabilities down the road. There are three ways to prepare homes for EV Charging.

EV Capable: Pre-wiring for an EV

As builders plan out the home’s electrical schematics, designate enough space and capacity to support EV charging. This includes planning a dedicated circuit (likely on a 60-Amp 2-pole circuit breaker), installing wiring to feed the circuit and a conduit system to guide the wiring from the load center to its final location of the EV charger. The type of wiring required will vary based on local inspection requirements.

EV-Ready: Installing an EV Outlet

In addition to pre-wiring for an EV-ready home, builders can install an EV-ready outlet, which is already a requirement for builders in regions like Denver, Atlanta and much of California. This option requires a wall box, cover plate, 240- volt receptacle and NEMA 14-50 outlet. Then, either the builder or homeowner can install a plug-in EV charger.

EV Installed: Roughing in a Hardwired Charger

When roughing in an EV charger in a new home build, the process starts with electrical planning and pre-wiring. But instead of wiring to an outlet, the wire and conduit feed directly into the hardwired EV charger. Planning to install an EV charging station in a new home might seem complicated, but it’s more straightforward than you might think.

EV Charging Levels

There are three EV charging levels . They differ based on how fast they charge and how they are powered.

Level 1 chargers use a standard 120V household outlet. They charge slowly (~3–5 miles of range per hour) but can be used for plug-in hybrids or for those individuals who do minimal driving. These do not require installation. Drivers simply plug the charger into the existing outlet.
Level 2 chargers are generally preferred for full EVs, which need a more powerful charger. They charge faster (~20–40 miles of range per hour) because they use a 240V outlet, the same used for clothes dryers, ovens, ranges, cooktops and central air conditioning units. These outlets typically require professional installation by a licensed electrician as they often require a dedicated circuit and potentially an upgrade to the home's electrical panel. Note that some manufacturers may void warranties if the charger is not installed by a certified professional and the homeowner's insurance may not cover damage from do-it-yourself installations.
Level 3 chargers are most often found in public charging stations, not in homes. They charge extremely fast (60–250+ miles of range in 20–30 minutes).

EV Readiness May Increase the Home’s Appeal

A 2022 Zillow report found that homes with an EV charging station typically sell 10 days faster than similar homes.

Green-minded buyers often look for future-proof homes with solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and EV readiness. Installing a 240V outlet post-construction can cost $500–$2,000+, especially if panel upgrades are needed. If EV outlets and wiring are already installed in the home, it can be a major convenience and cost benefit for the buyer.

If you’re debating the value of making your home EV ready, know that it will likely stand out in competitive real estate markets and may be especially attractive to eco-conscious buyers.