What is the lowest price for a tesla

Tesla once proudly boasted about a $35,000 fully electric sedan. Those days are long gone. Now the cheapest Tesla is the standard range Model 3, which starts at $43,990.

Last weekend, most Tesla models bumped up in price by $2,000. (The Model 3 standard range used to be $41,990.) And, on Wednesday, Tesla prices also went up in Germany and China.

That doesn't mean affordable EVs are out of reach. Beyond Tesla, EVs from Chevy to Nissan can be had for under $40,000, and they offer plenty of range, power, and other features — even if there's no Dog or Sentry Mode available.

Here are the EVs a more budget-friendly driver might consider.

1. Nissan Leaf

What is the lowest price for a tesla

The OG EV Credit: NISSAN

Range: 150 or 226 miles

Starting price: $27,400

The OG electric sedan, the Leaf is a solid EV choice. Plus, it still qualifies for the federal tax credit, which Tesla lost access to even before the pandemic. (At the time of publication, all cars listed here except the Bolt EV and EUV still qualified.)

2. Mini SE Hardtop

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Range: 110 miles

Starting price: $29,900

It's a super-cute electric version of the classic Mini, but be forewarned: This two-door EV barely goes 100 miles on a single charge.

SEE ALSO: Best back-up cameras for your car

3. Chevy Bolt EV

What is the lowest price for a tesla

The Chevrolet Bolt EV used to be a top Tesla competitor. Credit: GENERAL MOTORS

Range: 259 miles

Starting price: $31,995

The Bolt used to be Tesla's main competitor, at least budget-wise. But battery-fire recalls on every single Bolt ever sold has put a damper on sales and public perception.

4. Chevy Bolt EUV

What is the lowest price for a tesla

The newer, bigger Bolt EUV Credit: GENERAL MOTORS

Range: 247 miles

Starting price: $33,995

The EUV is a bigger version of the original Bolt, with Super Cruise hands-free driving built into the drive system. It just came out earlier this year, but fire risk literally blew up the EUV's appeal.

5. Hyundai Ioniq Electric

What is the lowest price for a tesla

A more affordable electric ride Credit: HYUNDAI

Range: 170 miles

Starting price: $34,250

Hyundai has since spun out its Ioniq line for all its electric vehicles.

6. Hyundai Kona Electric

What is the lowest price for a tesla

Electric SUV life in a Kona Electric Credit: HYUNDAI

Range: 258 miles

Starting price: $35,225

This one's another compact SUV from Hyundai that offers higher range than than the Ioniq — and, still, a lower price than a Tesla.

7. Kia Niro EV

What is the lowest price for a tesla

A compact SUV for less than a Tesla Credit: KIA

Range: 239 miles

Starting price: $39,990

The Niro EV just makes it under $40,000 as Kia's fully electric version in its Niro lineup, which also has a hybrid and plug-in hybrid.

Thanks to their high-performing electric vehicles (EVs), Tesla has single-handedly proven that electric cars can be exciting, desirable, and affordable.

Read on to find out what it costs to buy, customize, charge, and maintain a Tesla in 2022.  

Tesla hasn't just captured our imaginations, but serious market share too, accounting for over 70% of all EV sales in the U.S.

Many factors have driven Tesla's success: their unrivaled range, innovative use of technology, and their radical rethink of interior car design. But perhaps the most important factor – and one that's not given the credit it deserves – is Tesla's aggressive car pricing.

As far back as 2006, Elon Musk said that Tesla would offer desirable electric cars at prices that most consumers can afford. This dream was realized with the launch of the Model 3 in 2017, followed three years later by the small SUV the Model Y. Both vehicles have been massively successful, and are the reason why Tesla dominated the EV market by delivering over 936,000 vehicles last year.

While 2022 has seen Tesla repeatedly hike their prices, demand for its cars has shown no signs of slowing down. To see how much it now costs to buy a Tesla, and how much you can expect to spend and save while owning one, keep reading.

Find out how much it will cost you to charge your Tesla with solar power

Purchase process: Buying a Tesla is different

Tesla is unique – and not just because of their branding and design. When you buy a Tesla, regardless of the model or trim level, you work directly with Tesla, not a third-party sales force as you would with traditional car brands

In fact, you can buy a Tesla remotely from the comfort of your home. Just go to their website, customize the vehicle of your choice, place your order, and wait for it to be delivered. There are no haggling, pushy salesmen, or dealership gimmicks.

While Tesla doesn't have dealerships, they do have showrooms for those seeking an "in-store" experience. There, you can go for a test drive, speak with a specialist, or customize your car. But even at the showroom, you still place the order using the official Tesla website.

The website will show you two different prices listed for each car:

  • Purchase price
  • Potential savings

The purchase price is the real sticker price of the car. It's also the price that we've used when discussing Tesla prices throughout this blog.

The potential savings price, which is shown to website users by default, is your estimated cost of ownership after EV incentives and potential gas savings. We're not fans of prices being presented this way as it doesn't reflect the amount you will actually have to pay to buy the car. Plus, incentive eligibility and gas savings can vary significantly from person to person.

How much does each Tesla model cost?

A Tesla can cost as little as $46,990 or as much as $160,990, it all depends on which Tesla model you choose, and what features you want to add to the vehicle.

We've created a handy table to show you the price range for every Tesla model and version. Prices for Teslas are the same across the country, so the price of a Model 3 in New York will be the same as one in Beverly Hills. But remember the final price will depend on how you customize your ride.

All prices shown here are the final retail prices, straight from the Tesla website.

Prices of all Tesla models in 2022

Model and versionMax range*Base priceFully loaded**Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive272 miles$46,990$63,490Model 3 Long Range358 miles$57,990$74,490Model 3 Performance315 miles$62,990$77,990Model Y Long Range330 miles$65,990$86,990Model Y Performance303 miles$69,990$85,990Model S 405 miles$104,990$125,990Model S Plaid396 miles$135,990$156,990Model X 351 miles$120,990$149,490Model X Plaid333 miles$138,990$160,990

*The max range achievable using the most fuel-efficient options for each variant. All estimates provided by Tesla, which has been accused of inflating advertised ranges.

**Price after adding the most expensive customizations and add-ons offered, including Full Self Driving Capability. Does not include additional fees and taxes.

Tesla Model 3 price

The 2022 Tesla Model 3 has an official starting price of $46,990 for its base rear-wheel drive (RWD) trim. This makes it the cheapest Tesla car currently offered.

tesla model 3

The Model 3 is Tesla’s cheapest vehicle. It will set you back between $46,990 and $77,990, depending on trims and customizations. Image courtesy of Tesla Inc.

The Model 3 is also very popular: it is the top-selling EV in the world, with roughly half a million sold globally during 2021. The Model 3 — like all Teslas — comes standard with a 4-year/50,000-mile basic vehicle warranty and an 8-year battery and powertrain warranty. The mid-level variant, the Model 3 Long Range, features all-wheel drive and gets you 86 miles of extra range; it starts at $57,990.

The top-level Performance trim, which begins at $62,990, sacrifices some of that extra range for better speed and acceleration. It also throws in bells and whistles like 20” wheels and alloy pedals.

Are you looking for a $35,000 Model 3?

Elon Musk did repeatedly promise that the Model 3 would cost this much, after all. Well, Tesla did offer it – as a hard-to-find, "off-menu" item – but this version was discontinued in 2021.

Tesla Model Y price

The Model Y is Tesla’s offering in the fast-growing crossover vehicle category. The 2022 Tesla Model Y has a starting price of $65,990 for the cheaper Long Range trim and $69,990 for the higher-end Performance variant.

tesla model y in 2022

Need more space than a Model 3 but don’t have the budget for a Model X? The crossover Model Y might be what you’re looking for. It will cost you anywhere between $65,990 and $86,990, depending on the selected variant and add-ons. Image courtesy of Tesla Inc.

The Model Y drives, looks, and feels a lot like the Model 3 – which is not surprising given that they share many of the same parts. The main difference is that the Model Y is larger, offering more space for both passengers and cargo.

The Model Y Long Range is available in two seating configurations: the standard two rows that seat five passengers or, three rows that seat seven for an additional $3,000.

The Model Y Performance offers a sportier ride with a more luxe interior, starting at $69,990. It does not, however, offer the option of a third row.

Tesla Model S price

The Model S is Tesla’s premium offering, and it offers the longest range of all the Tesla vehicles. The 2022 Tesla Model S is currently available at a starting price of $104,990 for the standard dual-motor variant.

tesla model s in 2022

The Model S starts at $104,990 for the Long Range variant, and $135,990 for the Plaid. Image courtesy of Tesla Inc.

The Model S underwent a long-awaited refresh in 2021, which saw the vehicle’s performance improved and new features added, including the controversial steering yoke. The redesign also saw the Model S starting cost increase by over $10,000 to reach its present price.

If you’re looking for Tesla’s fastest vehicle, it’s the three-motor Model S Plaid variant. It can take you from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds - making it the quickest mass-market car in existence - and has a high speed of 200 mph. This variant has a starting price of $135,990.

Tesla had been promising an even more powerful Model S, the Plaid+, which would deliver even quicker acceleration and an unrivaled EV range of 520+ miles. These plans were later nixed In June 2021, with CEO Elon Musk quipping: "No need, as Plaid is just so good." Analysts, however, believe the cancellation may have been connected to COVID-related chip shortages.

Tesla Model X price

The Model X is Tesla’s larger SUV option, known for its distinctive ‘falcon-wing’ doors. At $120,990, the 2022 Tesla Model X standard variant has a higher base price than any other base model Tesla.

tesla model x in 2022

The Model X has seen a recent design refresh as well as multiple price hikes. The Model X now retails for $120,990, while the Model X Plaid starts at $138,990. Image courtesy of Tesla Inc.

The standard Model X comes with three seating options: 5-seater, 6-seater, and 7-seater. The 6-seater option uses captain’s chairs and is the most spacious configuration, but it’s also the most expensive, adding $6,500 to the price.

The faster, more luxurious Model X Plaid variant starts at $138,990. It offers only one seating layout, the 6-seat configuration.

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Prices of upcoming Tesla models: Cybertruck, 'Model 2', and Roadster

If you’re more interested in one of Tesla’s upcoming offerings, here’s a quick look at what you can expect to pay for each model, and when they're scheduled to be released.

ModelBase priceMax priceExpected launchCyberTruck$39,900$69,900+2023Roadster$200,000$250,0002023?Model 2$25,000?2025?

The prices and release dates mentioned above are based on the latest information provided by Tesla. We recommend taking them with a grain of salt; after all, Tesla is notorious for repeated production delays and price changes.

Tesla Cybertruck

The reveal of the retro-futuristic Tesla Cybertruck in November 2019 definitely had people talking. While people have mixed feelings about its looks, all agreed that if Tesla does actually deliver on the Tesla Cybertruck at competitive prices, this pickup could pick up massive market share.

Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk faced embarrassment when the Tesla Cybertruck’s 'armor glass' windows shattered during the vehicle’s unveiling. Despite the hiccup, over a million Americans paid the $100 deposit to book one. Image credit: Sky News

The most powerful (and most expensive) tri-motor variant is now expected to enter production in late 2022 or early 2023, with the cheaper dual and single-motor versions to follow.

There's a lot less clarity about how much the Cybertruck will cost on release. Tesla removed all mention of Cybertruck prices from their website back in October 2021.

You can currently book the Tesla Cybertruck by paying just $100 as a deposit.

New Tesla Roadster

Tesla promises the new Tesla Roadster will be the fastest street-legal car yet, with a top speed of 250 mph and acceleration that will take the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.9 seconds.

But all that speed won’t come cheap. The first 1,000 Tesla Roadsters produced will be sold as the Founder Series for $250,000 each, while all Roadsters after that will retail for $200,000.

The new Tesla Roadster will be a major refresh of the first-generation Tesla Roadster that was available from 2008 to 2012. While not many were sold, the original Roadster changed the automotive scene by proving that an electric car could deliver amazing performance and provide a decent driving range.

The $25,000 car (the Tesla ‘Model 2’)

In September 2020, Elon Musk teased the upcoming release of a new mass-market vehicle that will cost just $25,000.

This caused feverish speculation among Tesla watchers, with some suggesting the imminent release of a Tesla hatchback named the Model 2. However, these rumors were shut down by Musk in January 2022, when he announced that development work was on hold, and offered no indication of when it might resume. It appears highly unlikely that we’ll see this car any time before 2025.

Are there incentives or rebates to reduce Tesla car prices and costs?

You may be able to find some cost savings at the state level, but that’s about it.

Unfortunately, generous incentives like the federal EV rebate and unlimited free Supercharging are no longer available to Tesla buyers.

State-level incentives

Some states provide sizable cash incentives and tax rebates on EV purchases.

California offers the ‘Clean Fuel Reward’ incentive on all-new electric car purchases. Since November 2021, the maximum amount available is $750; all Tesla models qualify for the full amount. The state also offers an income-based rebate of up to $2,000 on cheaper electric vehicles.

Colorado, meanwhile, offers an impressive $2,500 in state tax credit if you buy an EV with cash, or $1,500 if you lease one.

Other states offer associated benefits like reduced or free tolls, and unlimited access to HOV lanes.

Federal EV rebate - no longer available for Teslas

The federal EV rebate for Tesla vehicles officially expired at the end of 2019.

Worth $7,500 for qualifying vehicles, this incentive played a big role in boosting early Tesla sales. However, Tesla fell victim to its success. Once it hit the government-set milestone of 200,000 EVs sold (back in July 2018), the incentive was reduced before being removed entirely.

All other electric car manufacturers aside from Tesla and General Motors still qualify for the federal rebate.

How much do Tesla customizations and add-ons cost?

The customization options for Teslas are quite limited. On the positive side, that’s fewer decisions for you to make when ordering your car. On the negative, it means less freedom to personalize your vehicle when compared to, say, the Porsche Taycan.

The table below shows you all Tesla add-on options and how much they cost.

The cost of Tesla customizations by model

FeatureModel 3Model YModel SModel XFull Self-Driving Capability (Autopilot)$12,000$12,000$12,000$12,000Tow Hitch-$1,000--ChargingMobile Connector$200$200$200$200Wall Connector$400$400$400$400SUV LayoutsFive seats*-$0-$0Six seats**---$0/$6,500Seven seats***-$3,000-$3,500Interior styleAll Black$0$0--Black and White$1,000$1,000--All Black - Ebony/Carbon Fiber Decor (Standard/Plaid variants)--$0 $0 Black and White - Walnut/Carbon Fiber Decor
(Standard/Plaid variants)--$2,000$2,000Cream - Carbon Fiber Decor (Plaid only)--$2,000$2,000Paint colorPearl White Multi-Coat$0$0$0$0Midnight Silver Metallic$0$0$1,500$1,500Deep Blue Metallic$1,000$1,000$1,500$1,500Solid Black$1,500$1,500$1,500$1,500Red Multi-Coat$2,000$2,000$2,500$2,500

*Included ($0) for both Model Y variants as well as the Model X (standard). Not available in the Model X Plaid.

**Included ($0) Model X Plaid, but $6,500 extra in the Model X (standard).

***Only available for the Model Y Long Range and Model X (standard).

The color customizations are also the same across all Tesla vehicles, although costs can vary across models. The availability of other customizations is more limited; Carbon Fiber Decor interior styling, for instance, is only available for the Plaid versions of the Model X and Model S.

Full Self-Driving (FSD) Capability is the crown jewel of Tesla’s additional options – and much more powerful than the Basic Autopilot function that comes standard. FSD allows Autopilot navigation, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, and the parking lot Summon feature. Buying FSD with your vehicle now costs $12,000 (up from a previous price of $10,000), and ensures that you’ll receive all future updates to FSD features at no additional cost.

Yes, as with the purchase of any new vehicle, there are several additional expenses you should account for when purchasing a Tesla.

  • Order fee: A $250 non-refundable order fee is charged at the time of the order.
  • Destination and documentation fee: You’ll have to pay a $1,200 destination and documentation fee for the delivery of your vehicle. Most car makers charge about this much.
  • Taxes and fees: Model 3 buyers report paying between $4,500 and $5,000 in taxes and fees. You should expect to pay more if you buy one of the pricer cars, i.e. a Model X or Model S.
  • Charging equipment: Tesla no longer provides a charger with their cars, so make sure to get one. There are two options: the $200 Mobile Connector, or the $400 Wall Connector. The Mobile Connector is slower, but can also fit into regular outlets. The Wall Connector – Tesla’s recommended option – is faster but requires a professional electrical installation which could cost you $200-300.

The good news is that Tesla has stopped charging two large fees: the refundable $1,000 reservation fee and the $2,500 order deposit; both were dropped in 2019.

Do Tesla gas savings reduce the cost of owning a Tesla?

Yes, you will almost certainly save on fuel costs by switching from a gasoline-powered car to a Tesla (or any EV for that matter), especially when gas prices are high.

Tesla provides gas savings estimates for each model on its website. For the Model 3, we were shown an estimated gas savings of $6,600 over six years, or $1,100 annually. For Tesla’s larger SUV, the Model X, the gas savings were even higher: $8,400 over six years.

Tesla’s estimates are based on assumptions about your electricity costs and annual driving distance, so they may not be very accurate for you. You can see a more useful figure by adjusting these inputs on Tesla's estimator. To do this, simply click on the ‘Customize’ button on Tesla’s order pages. When we adjusted the estimator’s electricity price input - from 14 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to 23 cents per kWh (the typical cost in California) - we saw the six-year gas savings on a Model 3 fall from $6,600 to just $4,800.

But, Tesla's estimator doesn’t allow you to account for factors like your driving style and preferred charging method. To adjust for a greater number of variables and see a more accurate savings estimate check out the calculators offered by Teslanomics.

How much does it cost to charge a Tesla?

If you’re charging a Tesla at home using utility power, it will cost you between $7 and $16 to charge a Tesla from a zero charge.

charging a tesla in 2022

Unless you drive more than 50 miles per day, you won’t actually need to charge your Tesla all that much. Image courtesy of Tesla Inc.

Another way to look at this cost is by the cost per mile metric. We analyzed the data and found that it cost between 2.9 and 4.7 cents per mile to charge a Tesla, depending on the make and model.

Gas-powered vehicles, on the other hand, cost about 20 cents per mile to drive. It's substantially cheaper to drive an EV, even if the upfront cost is a bit higher.

And if you install solar panels on your home and use the power generated to charge your Tesla, the charging cost will be even lower.

Check out our detailed blog on the cost of charging a Tesla.

How much will you save monthly by charging your Tesla with home solar panels?

What does it cost to service and maintain a Tesla?

Tesla vehicles have lower maintenance costs than conventional gas-powered cars. The reason for this is simple: EVs have fewer moving parts than gas engines, so there is less need for service and repairs.

In fact, Tesla updated its guidance a couple of years ago to let drivers know that annual servicing isn’t necessary. The company now recommends service only when a part is scheduled for checking or replacement.

Many Tesla owners say their only out-of-pocket maintenance costs within the first two years of ownership were related to their tires. This is mostly just periodic tire rotation, but some drivers said they needed to replace their tires early due to excessive wear and tear brought on by aggressive driving.

Projected five-year maintenance costs for a Model 3 come to about $980 total, assuming you change the parts yourself using Tesla’s DIY guides.

Are Tesla cars worth the price?

While Teslas aren’t the cheapest cars around, they offer plenty of bang for your buck.

They are emissions-free, boast excellent safety ratings, offer fantastic driving performance, and have long driving ranges. They also come with low running costs, especially when compared to conventional gas-powered vehicles.

Furthermore, owning Tesla allows you to use a home solar panel system as a fuel source. Solar panels generate power that is both clean and cheap, so using them to charge your vehicle will amplify the already great environmental and cost benefits of Tesla ownership.

If you’re thinking of buying a Tesla, definitely consider pairing it with a home solar panel installation.