Why Electric Car Charging Chicago Matters Now
Electric car charging Chicago has become easier than ever, with over 3,300 public charging stations across the city and 4,322 stations in the greater Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area. Here's what you need to know:
Quick Facts:
- Total Stations: 4,322 public charging stations in the metro area
- Fast Charging: 702 DC Fast Chargers available
- Level 2 Stations: 87% of Chicago's ports are Level 2 chargers
- Top Networks: ChargePoint (772 stations), Tesla Boostr (642 stations), Shell Recharge (263 stations)
The Windy City has grown its charging infrastructure by roughly 70% since the early 2020s, and it's now ranked among the Top 10 EV-friendly cities in the nation. Whether you're a current EV owner or considering making the switch, Chicago's charging network has expanded to meet your needs.
You'll find chargers at familiar spots like Whole Foods, Walgreens, Target, and shopping centers throughout the city. Public charging ports have grown rapidly, with 469 new stations added in just the last 90 days. The city is also working on a comprehensive framework to make EV infrastructure even more accessible and equitable.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about charging your electric vehicle in Chicago—from finding the right station to understanding speeds, and the best apps to use.
Chicago's EV Charging Landscape by the Numbers
Chicago is rapidly embracing the electric revolution, with a robust and expanding infrastructure designed to support the growing number of EV drivers. Our city and the wider Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan area boast an impressive network of charging stations, making electric car charging Chicago a convenient reality.
Within Chicago itself, we have over 3,300 public EV charging stations, with 357 of these offering fast charging options. Expanding our view to the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan area, the numbers are even more substantial, with a total of 4,322 public charging stations available. This includes a significant 702 DC Fast Chargers, providing rapid power when you need it most.
The majority of Chicago's charging infrastructure consists of Level 2 charging ports, making up 87% of the total. These are perfect for topping up while you work, shop, or enjoy the city's many attractions.
Several major charging networks operate within the Chicago area, ensuring a wide range of options for drivers. ChargePoint leads the pack with 772 stations in the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area, followed closely by Tesla Boostr with 642 stations. Other prominent networks include Shell Recharge with 263 stations and Blink with 249 stations. This diverse ecosystem of providers contributes to the city's strong position as an EV-friendly hub.
To find these stations and plan your routes, the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fueling Station Locator is an invaluable resource, allowing you to search for charging stations across the country.
How to Find and Use Your Perfect Charger
Finding an EV charger in a busy city like Chicago doesn't have to be a scavenger hunt. With a little know-how and the right tools, you can easily locate and use the ideal charging station for your needs.
Modern technology has made it incredibly simple to pinpoint charging stations. Dedicated EV charging apps like PlugShare, ChargeHub, GRID.com, and EVgo's app are indispensable. These apps often provide real-time information on station availability, connector types, and user reviews. Many in-car navigation systems also integrate charging station data, allowing you to plan stops directly from your dashboard. When using these tools, we always recommend checking the details on the station card. This includes vital information such as the connector type, the power level (kW), the real-time status (is it available or in use?), and recent user reviews, which can offer insights into reliability or potential issues.
How to find the right electric car charging Chicago location
When searching for electric car charging Chicago, we've learned that just finding the closest charger isn't always the best strategy. Instead, we encourage you to search smarter.
- Beyond Proximity: Consider what you'll be doing while your car charges. Do you need a quick top-up while running errands, or a longer session while at work or enjoying a meal? Look for chargers strategically located near amenities. Many public EV charging stations in Chicago are conveniently situated near entertainment venues, hotels, schools, supermarkets, and restaurants.
- Filtering by Speed: Your charging needs will vary. If you're in a hurry, filter for DC Fast Chargers. If you have a few hours, a Level 2 charger might be perfect. Apps allow you to filter by charging speed, helping you match the station to your schedule.
- Checking for Nearby Amenities: If you're staying in Uptown Chicago, for example, you might look for chargers within walking distance of your residence or nearby shops and cafes. The EVgo charger finder can help you locate stations near popular spots like Whole Foods Market on Huron St. or Orland Square Mall.
- Planning for Reliability: User reviews and real-time status updates are your best friends here. A charger might be close, but if it's frequently out of service or has poor reviews, it's worth driving a little further for a more reliable option.
Public Charging Etiquette
As more of us make the switch to EVs, observing proper public charging etiquette becomes increasingly important to ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
- ICEing: This term refers to when an Internal Combustion Engine (gas-powered) vehicle parks in an EV charging spot, preventing an EV from charging. This is not only frustrating but also strictly prohibited by Illinois Vehicle Code. Parking Regulations at EV Charging Stations clearly state that only electric vehicles are permitted in designated EV charging spaces. If you encounter an ICEd spot, we recommend politely leaving a note for the driver.
- Idle Fees: To promote availability, many public fast-charging networks have policies regarding vehicles that remain plugged in after a charging session is complete. This practice is designed to encourage drivers to move their vehicles once charged, freeing up the station for the next user. Always check the app for specific policies and set a timer on your phone to be courteous to other drivers.
- Not Overstaying Your Charge: Even if there are no idle fees, it's courteous to unplug and move your vehicle once you've reached a sufficient charge. Think of it like a gas pump – you don't linger after filling up.
- Keeping the Space Clean: Let's all do our part to keep charging stations tidy. Dispose of any trash properly and report any damage or issues to the charging network provider.
Charger Types and Speeds Explained
Understanding the different types of EV chargers and their speeds is key to a hassle-free charging experience in Chicago.
| Metric | Level 2 Charging | DC Fast Charging (Level 3) |
|---|---|---|
| Charging Speed | Adds 15-35 miles of range per hour | Adds 100-1,000+ miles of range per hour (up to 80% in 20-60 minutes) |
| Typical Locations | Workplaces, retail centers, public garages, apartments, homes | Major travel corridors, gas stations, dedicated charging hubs, some retail centers |
| Best Use Case | Daily charging, overnight charging, topping up while at a destination | Road trips, quick top-ups, when time is limited |
| Common Connectors | J-1772, NACS (Tesla) | CCS, CHAdeMO, NACS (Tesla) |
Understanding Level 2 Charging
Level 2 charging is the most common type of public charging, making up 87% of Chicago's public charging ports. It uses a 240-volt AC power source, similar to what powers a clothes dryer.
- Charging Speed: Level 2 chargers typically add between 15 to 35 miles of range per hour. While not as fast as DC Fast Charging, it's ideal for situations where your car will be parked for a few hours.
- Common Locations: You'll find Level 2 chargers at workplaces, retail centers, public parking garages, and increasingly at apartment complexes and residential areas. These are perfect for topping up your battery while you're at work, enjoying a meal, or shopping.
- Connectors: The most common connector for public Level 2 charging in North America is the J-1772. Tesla vehicles use their proprietary NACS connector but can often use J-1772 chargers with an adapter.
- Best Use Case: Level 2 charging is excellent for daily use, ensuring you can top up your battery conveniently while you go about your day.
The Power of DC Fast Charging
For those moments when you need a significant charge in a short amount of time, DC Fast Charging (also known as Level 3 charging) is your best friend. Chicago currently offers 702 DC Fast Chargers across the metropolitan area.
- Rapid Charging: DC Fast Chargers deliver direct current (DC) power directly to the car's battery, bypassing the onboard charger. This allows for significantly faster charging times, often providing an 80% charge in just 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the vehicle and charger's power output.
- Connectors: The main connectors for DC Fast Charging are CCS (Combined Charging System), CHAdeMO, and Tesla's NACS connector. Most non-Tesla EVs in North America use CCS.
- Best Use Case: DC Fast Charging is ideal for road trips, quick stops during long commutes, or whenever you need to add a substantial amount of range in a hurry. You'll typically find these along major travel corridors, at dedicated charging hubs, and some larger retail locations.
Chicago's Pro-EV Initiatives
Chicago is not just a hub for EV charging; it's a city actively committed to fostering a sustainable future through electric mobility. Our commitment to cleaner air and reduced emissions is evident in various city programs.
The City of Chicago is at the forefront of this movement with initiatives like Drive Electric Chicago, designed to make EV adoption and charging infrastructure more accessible. We are also proud to participate in the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus' EV Readiness Program, which aims to dismantle barriers to EV infrastructure investment and streamline the process for residents and businesses to install charging stations.
From an environmental perspective, the impact of EVs is significant. Electric vehicles contribute to improved air quality and reduced emissions. In Cook County, on-road transportation currently accounts for a substantial 58% of total greenhouse gas emissions. By embracing EVs, we are directly addressing this challenge and working towards a healthier, greener Chicago. EVs are also highly energy efficient, converting over 77% of electrical energy into power at the wheels, compared to a mere 12%-30% for gasoline vehicles. This efficiency not only benefits the environment but also reduces our reliance on fossil fuels.
Frequently Asked Questions about Electric Car Charging Chicago
We understand that making the switch to an EV, or simply navigating the charging landscape, can bring up questions. Here are some of the most common inquiries we hear about electric car charging Chicago.
How many EV charging stations are in Chicago?
Chicago has a robust network with over 3,300 public stations, including more than 350 DC fast chargers, ensuring drivers have plenty of options. If we look at the broader Chicago-Naperville-Elgin metropolitan area, that number jumps to 4,322 public charging stations, with 702 being DC Fast Chargers. This extensive network means that finding a place to power up in the Windy City is easier than ever.
What are the different types of EV chargers available?
The primary types of EV chargers you'll encounter in Chicago are Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers (also known as Level 3).
- Level 2 chargers are common for several-hour charging sessions at destinations like workplaces, retail centers, and public parking garages. They provide a good balance of speed and convenience, adding 15-35 miles of range per hour. The vast majority of Chicago's public charging ports (87%) are Level 2.
- DC Fast Chargers provide rapid charging, making them ideal for quick top-ups or longer journeys. These can typically charge an EV up to 80% in 20-60 minutes. You'll find 702 of these high-speed chargers across the Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area, often located along major routes.
Conclusion: Powering Your Modern Lifestyle in Chicago
Chicago has truly embraced the electric vehicle revolution, building a comprehensive and accessible infrastructure that supports a modern, sustainable lifestyle. With thousands of charging stations and a growing network of fast chargers, electric car charging Chicago is more convenient than ever. Our city's proactive initiatives further demonstrate a strong commitment to an EV-friendly future.
For those of us living in the city, the convenience of EV ownership is undeniable. Imagine starting each day with a full charge, ready to steer the vibrant streets of Uptown and beyond. The Draper Apartments offers luxury living in Uptown Chicago, providing modern studio to two-bedroom apartments that perfectly complement an electric lifestyle. We combine style, comfort, and convenience in a trendy location, making it easy to integrate sustainable choices into your daily routine.
We invite you to experience the best of Chicago living and explore how seamlessly an EV can fit into your life here. Explore our modern amenities and find how The Draper Apartments can be your perfect home base in the heart of the Windy City.
