EVCostIQ

The EV cost intelligence platform

Tesla Model Y RWD vs Toyota RAV4 LE (gas): 5-year cost to own in New Jersey

By the EVCostIQ research desk · reviewed against our public methodology · every source dated on this page

As of July 1, 2026, over 5 years in New Jersey, the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) stays the cheaper car to own — about $40,431 vs $59,336 for the Tesla Model Y RWD, a $18,905 difference over 5 years. New Jersey's electricity (23.5¢/kWh, 25% above the U.S. average) and $3.87/gal gas are fed straight into both totals. The expired federal $7,500 EV credit is not applied to either total.

Cheaper to own over 5 years · New JerseyToyota RAV4 LE (gas) · $40,431 total · $18,905 less than the Tesla Model Y RWD

Tesla Model Y RWD vs Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) — where the money goes

5-year total cost of ownership by component, by vehicle (USD). Estimates; sources dated in the methodology.
Cost componentElectric · Tesla Model Y RWDGas · Toyota RAV4 LE
Depreciation (estimated)$26,544 (45%)$10,800 (27%)
Charging / fuel$5,840 (10%)$7,738 (19%)
↳ of which charging loss12% (~$701)—
Maintenance$3,660 (6%)$5,520 (14%)
Insurance$13,750 (23%)$11,000 (27%)
Financing interest$7,897 (13%)$5,078 (13%)
Registration & fees$1,645 (3%)$295 (1%)
Total cost of ownership$59,336$40,431

The charging-loss row is the ~10–15% of electricity lost to AC charging that you pay for but never reaches the battery — we include it; most calculators don't.

When does the Tesla Model Y RWD win?

Even at 30,000+ mi/yr or a 15-year hold, the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) stays cheaper here — its lower price and slower depreciation dominate. The Tesla Model Y RWD is the pick mainly for reasons beyond 5-year cost (performance, emissions, HOV access, home-charging convenience).

Tesla Model Y RWD vs Toyota RAV4 LE (gas), side by side

Electric

Tesla Model Y RWD

5-yr total cost
$59,336
Cost / month
$989
Cost / mile
$0.99
MSRP
$44,990
Powertrain
Electric
Efficiency
28 kWh/100mi
Gas Lower 5-yr cost

Toyota RAV4 LE (gas)

5-yr total cost
$40,431
Cost / month
$674
Cost / mile
$0.67
MSRP
$30,000
Powertrain
Gas
Efficiency
30 mpg
New Jersey electricity
23.5¢/kWh EIA
Gas price (New Jersey)
$3.87/gal AAA

Change the miles, your state & either car

Full cost breakdowns

← Tesla Model Y RWD vs Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) (U.S. average)

FAQ

Is the Tesla Model Y RWD or the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) cheaper to own over 5 years in New Jersey?

The Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) stays the cheaper car to own — about $40,431 vs $59,336 for the Tesla Model Y RWD, a $18,905 difference over 5 years.

When does the Tesla Model Y RWD become cheaper than the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas)?

Even at 30,000+ mi/yr or a 15-year hold, the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) stays cheaper here — its lower price and slower depreciation dominate. The Tesla Model Y RWD is the pick mainly for reasons beyond 5-year cost (performance, emissions, HOV access, home-charging convenience).

How much more does the Tesla Model Y RWD cost to buy than the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas)?

The Tesla Model Y RWD starts at $44,990 — $14,990 more than the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas) ($30,000). Over 5 years the ownership gap is $18,905 in favor of the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas).

Which costs less per mile — the Tesla Model Y RWD or the Toyota RAV4 LE (gas)?

The Toyota RAV4 LE (gas): $0.67 vs $0.99 per mile all-in ($674 vs $989 per month) in New Jersey.