Cost Effective Cars

The Cheapest and Most Expensive Cars to Run in the US

There are so many different costs to factor in when you buy a new car. From the price of gas, to insurance and vehicle tax rates in your area. In a landscape where consumer prices fluctuate, particularly in areas like vehicle parts, used car markets, and auto insurance, it becomes crucial to make informed choices. Recent trends indicate a slight easing in US inflation, thanks in part to decreasing gas prices. However, other sectors, notably replacement parts, insurance and related services, have witnessed a persistent uptick in costs.

With Americans spending huge amounts of money every month to run their cars, we wanted to explore which cars were the cheapest to run and the most suitable for first-time drivers. By looking at factors such as the average cost of road tax, fuel, the average cost of parts, a replacement battery, and insurance.

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The Cheapest Cars to Run in the US

1 – Honda Fit (2018) 1.5L Automatic

Total Cost of Insurance and Gas per Year: $4,270

The Honda Fit 2018 remains one of the most budget-friendly cars to run in the U.S. With its subcompact five-door hatchback design, it offers a surprising amount of interior space for its size, making it an ideal option for city drivers and first-time car owners. The Fit is known for its impressive fuel efficiency, costing only $2,830 per year in gas at $0.21 per mile. Additionally, its low insurance premium of $1,440 keeps annual costs minimal. The Fit is also praised for its Magic Seat®, which allows for multiple seating and cargo configurations, making it one of the most versatile small cars on the market.

2 – Hyundai Accent (4cyl 1.6L Automatic AV-S1)

Total Cost of Insurance and Gas per Year: $4,414

The Hyundai Accent is a subcompact sedan known for its reliability and affordability, making it a popular choice among cost-conscious drivers. The 1.6L engine delivers solid fuel economy, resulting in an annual gas cost of $2,830, identical to the Honda Fit, at $0.21 per mile. However, its insurance premium of $1,584 is slightly higher, bringing the total yearly cost to $4,414. Despite being one of the most affordable cars in its class, the Accent has been recognized for offering a comfortable and quiet ride. With a spacious interior and user-friendly tech features, it remains a top contender for those looking for a low-cost yet modern vehicle.

3 – Toyota Yaris (2020) 1.5L Manual 6-spd

Total Cost of Insurance and Gas per Year: $4,537

The Toyota Yaris 2020 model is a fuel-efficient subcompact car, offering a fun-to-drive manual transmission that appeals to those who prefer a more engaging driving experience. With a 1.5L engine, the Yaris achieves a fuel cost of $2,965 per year, slightly higher than the Fit and Accent, at $0.22 per mile. Its insurance premium of $1,572 brings the total running cost to $4,537 per year. The Yaris is also known for its exceptional reliability and strong resale value, two key factors that make it a smart investment. Additionally, it features a sleek design and a surprisingly upscale interior for a car in its class, making it a great choice for drivers looking for an affordable yet stylish ride.

The Most Expensive Cars to Run in the US

1 – Ford F-150 Raptor (3.5L Automatic, 4WD)

Total Cost of Insurance and Gas per Year: $6,790

The Ford F-150 Raptor is the ultimate off-road pickup, but its power and performance come with a hefty price tag. This high-performance 4WD truck has a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine, delivering exceptional horsepower and torque. However, its fuel consumption is among the highest on the market, costing $5,929 per year in gas at $0.44 per mile. Insurance for the Raptor is also steep, averaging $1,752 per year, bringing the total annual cost to $6,790. Designed for extreme off-road adventures, the Raptor features a Fox Racing suspension, massive all-terrain tires, and a reinforced chassis, making it one of the most capable trucks available—but also one of the most expensive to maintain.

2 – Infiniti Q50 (2021) 3.0L Automatic (S7)

Total Cost of Insurance and Gas per Year: $6,384

The Infiniti Q50 is a luxury sports sedan known for its sleek styling, premium interior, and powerful V6 engine. While it offers a smooth and exhilarating ride, the 3.0L twin-turbocharged engine contributes to its high running costs. The Q50 has a fuel cost of $4,212 per year, making it one of the most expensive sedans. Insurance rates for this luxury vehicle are also high, averaging $2,172 annually, bringing the total annual cost to $6,384. While it delivers a high-tech and comfortable driving experience, the Infiniti Q50 is costly for those looking for a balance between performance and affordability.

3 – GMC Sierra (2WD, 5.3L Automatic, 6-spd)

Total Cost of Insurance and Gas per Year: $6,374

The GMC Sierra 2WD is a full-size pickup truck that combines power and utility, but its operating costs are among the highest in its class. Equipped with a 5.3L V8 engine, the Sierra has one of the highest fuel consumption rates, costing $5,525 per year in gas at $0.41 per mile. The insurance premium of $1,776 adds to its hefty annual cost, totaling $6,374. Despite its high expenses, the Sierra is a popular choice for truck enthusiasts, offering strong towing capabilities, a spacious cabin, and advanced driver assistance features. However, those looking for a more budget-friendly truck might consider a more fuel-efficient alternative.

The Cheapest EV Cars to Run in the US

Electric vehicles have allowed drivers to go greener by reducing emissions and noise pollution worldwide. In addition to helping the planet, EVs have been proven to have lower running costs and provide an overall better driving experience. Here are the cheapest EVs to run in the US:

1 – Hyundai Kona Electric (3.57 mi/kWh)

Total Cost of Insurance and Electricity per Year: $3,624

The Hyundai Kona Electric is the most affordable EV to run in 2025, thanks to its efficient battery system and competitive insurance rates. With an estimated electricity cost of $1,764 per year, the Kona Electric offers one of the lowest per-mile costs among EVs at $0.13 per mile. Its insurance premium of $1,860 annually keeps the total annual cost at $3,624. The Kona Electric features a range of up to 258 miles per charge, making it a practical option for daily commuters and long-distance travelers. With responsive acceleration, a comfortable interior, and a suite of advanced safety features, it remains one of the best-value electric vehicles on the market.

2 – Chevrolet Bolt EUV (3.4 mi/kWh)

Total Cost of Insurance and Electricity per Year: $3,782

The Chevrolet Bolt EUV remains one of the most cost-effective EVs. Its low electricity cost of $1,742 per year and insurance rate of $2,040 brings its total yearly expenses to $3,782. Known for its compact crossover design and extended range of up to 247 miles, the Bolt EUV is a favorite among budget-conscious EV buyers. It offers a spacious cabin, an intuitive infotainment system, and standard Super Cruise hands-free driving assistance, making it an excellent choice for those looking for affordability with premium technology.

3 – Nissan Leaf (40 kWh Battery Pack) (3.08 mi/kWh)

Total Cost of Insurance and Electricity per Year: $3,826

The Nissan Leaf continues to be a strong contender for budget-friendly EVs, offering an affordable balance between efficiency and practicality. With an estimated electricity cost of $1,726 per year and an insurance premium of $2,100, the Leaf’s total annual running cost comes to $3,826. Its 40 kWh battery delivers a solid range of up to 149 miles per charge, making it an excellent choice for city driving and daily commutes. The Leaf is known for its smooth handling, spacious interior, and advanced driver assistance features like ProPILOT Assist. As one of the pioneers in the EV space, the Nissan Leaf remains a go-to option for those seeking an economical and reliable electric vehicle.

The Most Expensive EV Cars to Run in the US

1 – Audi e-tron GT (2.52 mi/kWh)

Total Cost of Insurance and Electricity per Year: $6,076

The Audi e-tron GT is a luxury electric sports sedan that blends high performance with cutting-edge technology. Powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, the e-tron GT delivers up to 637 horsepower and can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds. However, its high energy consumption results in an annual electricity cost of $1,576, while its premium insurance rates push the total yearly cost to $6,076. Despite the high running costs, the e-tron GT remains a top choice for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience, a refined interior, and Audi’s signature design and craftsmanship.

2 – Porsche Taycan 4 Cross Turismo (2.27 mi/kWh)

Total Cost of Insurance and Electricity per Year: $5,909

The Porsche Taycan 4 Cross Turismo is an electric wagon that delivers a perfect mix of sportiness, luxury, and practicality. With its 2.27 mi/kWh efficiency rating, the Taycan racks up an annual electricity cost of $1,505. However, its high-performance engineering and premium brand status contribute to a steep insurance premium of $4,404, bringing its total yearly cost to $5,909. The Taycan 4 Cross Turismo boasts Porsche’s advanced handling dynamics, a spacious interior, and an off-road-ready design, making it a standout in the EV market for those who want both speed and versatility—albeit at a premium price.

3 – Tesla Model X (2.98 mi/kWh)

Total Cost of Insurance and Electricity per Year: $5,515

The Tesla Model X is an electric SUV that combines practicality with high-end technology and performance. Known for its distinctive Falcon Wing doors, the Model X offers a range of up to 348 miles per charge and an impressive 0-60 mph time of just 2.5 seconds in its Plaid variant. However, its running costs are among the highest in the EV segment, with an annual electricity expense of $1,675 and an insurance premium of $3,840, leading to a total yearly cost of $5,515. Despite its cost, the Model X remains a popular choice among families and tech enthusiasts, thanks to its spacious cabin, advanced Autopilot system, and industry-leading infotainment features.

Gasoline Cars vs. Electric Vehicles: Which is Better Value for Money?

We have previously discussed the benefits of driving an electric vehicle, but how does an EV compare to a car running on gasoline? We wanted to compare the running costs for a year based on insurance prices and the cost of gas/electricity per year. Here’s how our cheapest-to-run EVs compared to our cheapest-to-run gasoline cars:

The Honda Fit 2018, a subcompact hatchback, has a combined annual cost of $4,270 when factoring in $2,830 in gas expenses and an insurance premium of $1,440. In contrast, the Hyundai Kona Electric, a small all-electric SUV, offers a significantly lower running cost of $3,624 annually. With electricity costs of just $1,764 per year and an insurance premium of $1,860, drivers could save $646 annually by switching to Kona Electric.

The Hyundai Accent, known for its affordability, has an annual cost of $4,414, consisting of $2,830 in gas expenses and $1,584 for insurance. In contrast, the Chevrolet Bolt EUV comes in at $3,782 per year, thanks to electricity costs of $1,742 and an insurance premium of $2,040. This means drivers could save approximately $630 per year by opting for the Bolt EUV, making it a cost-effective alternative to gasoline-powered subcompacts.

The Toyota Yaris 1.5L Manual, a fuel-efficient subcompact, has an annual running cost of $4,537, with $2,437 spent on gas and $2,100 on insurance. In comparison, the all-electric Nissan Leaf offers a lower total yearly cost of $3,826, consisting of $1,726 in electricity expenses and the same $2,100 insurance premium. This translates to a potential savings of $711 per year for drivers who choose the Leaf over the Yaris, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to switch to an EV while reducing fuel expenses.

Car Registration Fees by State

Running a vehicle in the US is not cheap, and you should expect to pay a lot more than the price on a car sales website. Down payments, monthly payments, insurance, gas, and registration fees should also be considered when you buy a new car.

Vehicle registration plates are required for every vehicle, and each state requires that cars be registered and titled with the state’s transportation agency. Each state has varied vehicle registration fees; some may base this price on the car’s age or weight or may even carry extra fees, such as public safety fees. Colorado, Michigan, Utah, and Iowa registration fees are based on vehicle value or weight, depending on age, and there are specific fees for electric and hybrid vehicles. So, which states have the highest and lowest car registration fees?

Top 5 States with the Highest Car Registration Fees

1. Oregon – $268.50 to $636.50 for new vehicles and $122 to $306 for renewals (2 years), based on model year and fuel efficiency.
2. Florida – $225 one-time new vehicle fee, plus $14.50 to $32.50 annually based on vehicle weight.
3. North Dakota – $49 to $274, depending on vehicle age and weight.
4. Montana – $30.57 to $225.24, based on vehicle age, plus a 3% fee on vehicle value.
5. Maryland – $135 to $187 for two years, based on vehicle weight.

Other high-fee states include Illinois ($151 annually, plus a $251 EV fee) and Michigan ($135–$235 EV fee, with standard registration based on MSRP and age).

Top 5 States with the Lowest Car Registration Fees

1. Arizona – $8 base fee, plus a $32 Public Safety Fee.
2. Hawaii – $12 base fee, increasing based on vehicle weight.
3. Mississippi – $12.75 for renewals, $14 for first-time registrations.
4. Nebraska – $15, plus $5.50 in extra fees.
5. Tennessee – $26.50, among the lowest in the U.S.

Other states with relatively low fees include New Mexico ($27–$62, based on weight and age) and Arkansas ($17–$30, with additional fees for hybrid and electric vehicles).

Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Fees

Many states have introduced additional fees for EV and hybrid owners to replace lost gas tax revenue.

• Georgia – $200 annual alternative-fuel fee.
• Michigan – $135–$235 annual EV fee, $47.50–$117.50 hybrid fee.
• West Virginia – $200 annual EV fee, $100 plug-in hybrid fee.
• Washington – $75 hybrid fee, $150 EV fee.
• Texas – $90 tax when moving a vehicle to Texas.

Some states gradually increase EV and hybrid fees each year to keep up with declining gas tax revenue.

Cars with the Cheapest Costs for Repairs with Replacement Parts

It is no surprise that most car manufacturers are not keen to share the costs of fixing and maintaining your new vehicle. Therefore, it’s key that you research and choose a car that’s affordable to fix and efficient to run. Here are three cars with low repair costs:

1 – Honda HR-V AWD 1.8L

Total Cost for Replacing Car Parts: $296.47

The Honda HR-V AWD is the most cost-effective vehicle to repair, with essential replacement parts available at budget-friendly prices. Brake pads cost just $46.99, while a new car battery is priced at $219.99. The air filter, at $29.49, brings the total cost of common replacements to $296.47. Known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, the HR-V is not only affordable to maintain but also offers a comfortable ride with modern features.

2 – Toyota Corolla 4cyl 1.8L Automatic

Total Cost for Replacing Car Parts: $296.97

The Toyota Corolla has long been celebrated for its low maintenance costs and durability. With brake pads priced at $49.99, a battery at $219.99, and an air filter costing $26.99, the total repair cost remains under $300 at $296.97. Thanks to its dependable engine and widely available parts, the Corolla remains a top choice for drivers looking for long-term savings on repairs and upkeep.

3 – Ford Fusion 2020 4cyl 2.5L Automatic (S8)

Total Cost for Replacing Car Parts: $297.47

The Ford Fusion 2020 rounds out the list of the most affordable cars to repair, with brake pads priced at $50.99, a battery costing $219.99, and an air filter for just $26.49. This midsize sedan is popular for its smooth ride and spacious interior, but it also delivers reasonable repair costs, making it a great choice for budget-conscious drivers.

Cars with the Most Expensive Costs for Repairs with Replacement Parts

When looking at vehicle costs, we sometimes don’t consider the cost of pricey repairs and new parts, mainly if you’ve purchased a new car. You might expect luxury sports cars to lead the list, but some common commercial vehicles are surprisingly costly to keep running.

We took a look at some of the most commonly replaced car parts, giving us a total cost of the car parts for each vehicle model:

1 – Tesla Model Y (2022)

Total Cost for Replacing Car Parts: $383.97

The Tesla Model Y, a popular electric SUV, is among the most expensive vehicles to repair. Brake pads cost $69.99, while a battery replacement is priced at $269.99. The air filter, at $43.99, is also among the priciest on the market. Tesla’s proprietary parts and limited service network mean that even routine repairs can be costly. Despite lower long-term maintenance compared to gasoline cars, EV-specific parts make the Model Y one of the costliest to repair.

1 – Tesla Model 3 (2022)

Total Cost for Replacing Car Parts: $383.97

The Tesla Model 3, Tesla’s best-selling sedan, has identical repair costs to the Model Y. Brake pads also cost $69.99, a battery replacement costs $269.99, and the air filter costs $43.99. Although Tesla vehicles require fewer moving parts than traditional gasoline cars, the high cost of proprietary Tesla components and service restrictions result in expensive maintenance bills.

3 – Ford F-150 Lightning 4WD (2.03 mi/kWh)

Total Cost for Replacing Car Parts: $376.97

The Ford F-150 Lightning, Ford’s all-electric pickup, also ranks among the most expensive vehicles to maintain. While it offers exceptional towing capacity and high-tech features, its brake pads cost $62.99, a battery replacement runs $269.99, and the air filter is $43.99. Although battery maintenance is lower than gasoline-powered trucks, repair costs remain significantly higher than those of traditional F-150 models due to the specialized parts and labor required for EV components.

Previous reports

2024 The Cost Effective Cars Report

2023 The Cost Effective Cars Report

Methodology:

We started our research by collating a list of the most popular cars in the US, using listicle articles by All Top Everything’s Top 10 Most Popular Cars in the USA.

Fuel Costs

We were able to find the Cost of Gas (per mile) using Alternative Fuels Data Center’s Vehicle Cost Calculator, using the average daily use figures already set in the calculator to find the cost of gas per mile.

We then found the average miles driven per year using Federal Highway Administration Data. We were then able to multiply the cost of gas (per mile) by the average number of miles per year in the US (13,476 miles).

Cost of Insurance

We used Insure.com’s Average insurance rates for your 2024 car to find insurance costs for our 2024 models. We used Finder.com’s Compare car insurance by make and model for our older car models.

The Cheapest EV Cars to Run in the US

We used ChooseEV’s EV Savings Calculator to add the electric vehicle model, and were then able to find the car’s Utility kWh rate (the estimated costs per mile). We were able to multiply each model’s Utility kWh rate by the Average Number of Miles Traveled per Year (according to Federal Highway Administration Data), to find the cost of electricity per year.

We then used Insure.com’s Average insurance rates for your 2024 car to find insurance costs for our electric vehicle models. Finally, we compared the total yearly costs of our EVs to our gasoline vehicle models.

Car Registration Fees by State

We used World Population Review’s Car Registration Fees by State 2025 to find the fees in each state for car registration.

Cost for Car Parts

We used Advance Auto Parts to find the cost of replacement parts for each vehicle. Our average score is based on the cars with the priciest car parts.