If you’re living in Virginia and trying to cut down your travel expenses, you’re not alone. Between gas prices, rising Metro fares, and the cost of owning a car (especially an electric one), it can be tough to figure out what’s actually the most budget-friendly way to get around.
So let’s break it down: gas-powered cars, electric vehicles (EVs), or public transit like the Metro—what’s the smartest choice for your wallet in Virginia?
Overview
Each travel option has its pros and cons, but when it comes to cost, the big picture depends on how far you travel, how often, and whether you’re in a city or suburb. In Virginia, especially Northern VA, your choice really matters because daily commutes can get long and expensive fast.
Gas
Driving a gas-powered car is still the go-to method for most Virginians. But fuel prices fluctuate like crazy. As of mid-2025, the average gas price in Virginia is around $3.45 per gallon.
If your car gets about 25 miles per gallon and you drive 30 miles daily round-trip, that’s roughly $4.14 per day or about $90 per month—just on gas. Then toss in oil changes, maintenance, insurance, and parking. Suddenly, you’re looking at over $400 monthly in total car costs.
Electric
Electric vehicles cost more upfront but are way cheaper to run. In Virginia, electricity costs about 12 cents per kilowatt-hour. Most EVs like the Tesla Model 3 or Nissan Leaf use about 30 kWh per 100 miles. If you’re driving 30 miles a day, that’s about $1.08 a day—or $23 a month.
EV drivers also avoid gas stations, and with fewer moving parts, maintenance is way cheaper. Plus, the state and federal tax credits can shave thousands off the purchase price.
Here’s a quick cost comparison:
| Cost Type | Gas Car (Monthly) | EV (Monthly) |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel/Charging | $90 | $23 |
| Maintenance | $100+ | $40 or less |
| Insurance | $120 | $130 (avg EV) |
| Total Avg | $310+ | $193 |
Keep in mind, EV insurance can be a bit higher, but the savings on fuel and repairs usually make up for it.
Metro
Now let’s talk Metro. If you live in Northern Virginia and work in D.C., the Metro can actually be a great value—depending on your route. The average Metro fare ranges from $2 to $6 per ride based on distance and time of day.
If you’re commuting Monday to Friday and paying around $5 per trip, that’s $10 a day or $200 a month. Add in occasional parking at a station ($5 per day), and you’re looking at about $300 monthly.
Still cheaper than a gas-powered car when you count all the maintenance and fuel costs. And let’s not forget—you can scroll, read, or nap instead of dealing with traffic.
Other Factors
Don’t forget these side perks:
- Metro riders don’t need to worry about parking downtown (a huge win)
- EV owners can sometimes use HOV lanes solo
- Gas car owners have the widest availability of repair shops and fueling stations
But when it comes strictly to saving money, EVs and Metro often win out—especially for predictable, regular commutes.
If your goal is the lowest monthly cost, electric vehicles take the lead for regular drivers, and Metro comes close for city commuters who don’t want the headache of car ownership. Gas cars might still be king in rural areas, but for most Virginians, smarter travel equals serious savings.
FAQs
What’s cheaper: EV or gas in VA?
EVs are cheaper to operate long-term.
Is Metro cheaper than driving?
Yes, especially for city commutes.
How much does gas cost in VA?
Around $3.45 per gallon in mid-2025.
Are EV charging stations common in VA?
Yes, and growing rapidly across the state.
Does Metro charge by distance?
Yes, fares vary by trip length and time.
