The country wants affordable sub-$35K electric cars. While we wait for a slew of upcoming new EVs to hit the market, many have found that affordable EVs are already here for people in many US states.

The workaround is opting for slightly used EVs. A recent market study found that nearly 60% of used EVs are priced under $30K with 63% being 2021 or newer.

Affordable EV percentages

These affordable options combine the tech features and long range of a modern EV with affordable prices of pre-owned vehicles.

However, access to affordable options varies greatly by state. 

Availability can range from near zero to thousands of options – at every price point – depending on where you live. Similarly, state-by-state pricing can fluctuate dramatically. A 2019 Tesla Model 3 can be $8,000 more expensive in one state than its neighbor. 

What makes an affordable EV state?

Sale price is only part of what makes a state a good place to find an affordable EV. Other factors include the variety of models available and statewide incentives to make it easier - and cheaper - to get that vehicle. 

Used EVs priced under $25K may also qualify for the federal tax credit, which can be applied at the point-of-sale to lower purchase price another $4K. 

Recurrent looked at these factors to determine the best states to find an affordable car. 

For comparison, the national average for used EV price is $33,866 with a selection of 15 different models.

Affordable EV States (Other than California)

Affordable EV States
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Minnesota
Least Affordable
  • West Virginia
  • Arkansas
  • Maine
  • Louisiana
  • Alaksa

It is no surprise that California remains the leader in electric vehicle adoption. With robust incentives, a comprehensive charging network, and the widest selection of car models, California is the best place for an affordable EV. The state's Clean Vehicle Rebate Program and the availability of HOV lane access further sweeten the deal.

But what about less obvious states that are also leading the way for affordable EVs? Some of these aren’t shocking, but some may surprise you.

Washington

Washington sets itself apart with used EV prices that are 10% cheaper than the national average and vehicle variety that is 70 percent better than average. The average used EV price is $30,785 with a selection of 32 different EV models. Regional incentives include:

“More than 40% of our members who responded to our EV survey last year said that they are considering an EV as their next car,” said Laura Ray, VP of corporate affairs and ESG with AAA Washington. “Of those respondents, high cost was cited as the number one reason preventing Washington drivers from getting an EV. Recurrent’s research reveals the robust used EV market in our state, providing a great solution for Washingtonians on the cusp of electrification.”

Virginia

Washington used EV prices are nearly 10% cheaper than the national average and vehicle variety is almost as high as Washington State. The average used EV price is $30,495 with 29 different EV models available. Local incentives include:

Colorado

Colorado offers a compelling alternative for used EV shoppers with an average used EV price of just $31,107, noticeably lower than the national average. The state also features a variety of 22 different EV models on the market today.

Incentives and laws on the books: 

Connecticut

Used EV market conditions in Connecticut are roughly the same as the national average - $33,886 and 15 different options available. However, unlike most of the nation, Connecticut features excellent incentives for EV buyers.

Minnesota

Don't sleep on Minnesota as an EV state. The average used EV price is $31,987, which is below the national average, and offers a variety of 15 EV models. The state also offers a unique spread of EV incentives. Here's a selection of them.

About our data

Current pricing and inventory data comes from 50,000+ online listings. Data on state and local incentives is compiled by the US Department of Energy on the Alternative Fuels Data Center site.