Most EV owners with home charging access do the vast majority of their charging overnight at home, reserving public stations mainly for road trips or days without home access.
Cost
Home electricity rates are typically far cheaper per kWh than public fast-charging rates, which often carry a premium for the speed and convenience. Overnight home charging is usually the cheapest way to keep an EV topped up.
Convenience
Home charging means starting every day at full or near-full battery without ever detouring to a station — a major quality-of-life difference for owners who have a driveway, garage, or dedicated parking spot.
When public charging is still necessary
Apartment or street parking without home charging access, road trips beyond a single charge, and unexpected extra driving are the main scenarios where public stations become essential rather than optional.
Is it possible to own an EV without home charging?
Yes, though it requires more planning — many drivers without home access rely on workplace charging, regular visits to a nearby public Level 2 station, or occasional fast charging, treating it more like refueling a gas car on a schedule.