Walmart has EV chargers at hundreds of locations, but they're not all the same speed or price

Walmart operates two types of electric vehicle chargers across its stores: Level 2 chargers that add 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, and DC fast chargers that can add 200 miles in 20 to 30 minutes. Not every Walmart has both—some locations have only Level 2, others have DC fast chargers, and a growing number have both. You can find which chargers are at your nearest store by searching the Walmart website or using third-party apps like PlugShare or A Better Route Planner that map public charging networks.

Walmart's charging network is operated through partnerships with charging companies. Most of the DC fast chargers are installed and managed by Electrify America, while Level 2 chargers vary by location and partner. This matters because each network has its own payment method and pricing structure—you cannot assume all Walmart chargers work the same way or cost the same amount.

Key Takeaways

  • Walmart chargers are split between Level 2 (slower, cheaper) and DC fast chargers (faster, more expensive), and not all stores have both types.
  • Most DC fast chargers at Walmart are run by Electrify America, which requires its own app or membership card to use and pay.
  • Level 2 chargers at Walmart may be operated by different companies depending on location, so check the specific charger's app or signage before you arrive.
  • Pricing varies by charger type, location, and operator—DC fast charging typically costs more per minute than Level 2, and some networks charge membership fees.
  • You will need a compatible charging cable or adapter for your vehicle, as Walmart chargers do not provide cables at all locations.

Finding and identifying Walmart EV chargers near you

The Walmart website has a store locator that shows which chargers are available at each location. Go to Walmart.com, search for a store, and look for the EV charging icon or section on that store's page. This tells you whether the location has Level 2, DC fast, or both. The listing also shows the charger operator's name, which is important because you will need that company's app to pay.

Third-party apps often have more detail than Walmart's own listing. PlugShare, ChargePoint, and A Better Route Planner all show Walmart chargers on their maps, along with real-time availability, user reviews, and pricing. These apps are worth checking because a charger listed as available on Walmart's site may be out of service or occupied when you arrive, and the third-party apps update more frequently.

How to pay for charging at Walmart locations

Payment depends on which charger operator runs the station. If it is an Electrify America DC fast charger, you read the Electrify America app, create an account, and add a payment method. You then start the charger through the app or by scanning a QR code at the station. Electrify America charges per minute of charging time, with rates that vary by location and time of day.

Level 2 chargers at Walmart may be operated by ChargePoint, Volta, or other networks. Each has its own app and payment system. Some Level 2 networks charge per hour, others per kilowatt-hour, and some offer free charging at certain times or locations. Before you plug in, check the signage on the charger itself—it will display the operator's name and either a QR code to scan or instructions to read the app.

A few Walmart locations offer chargers that are free to use, but this is not the standard. Free chargers are usually older Level 2 stations or part of a limited pilot program. Do not assume a Walmart charger is free; always check the app or signage first.

DC fast charging versus Level 2 at Walmart

DC fast chargers at Walmart are best for long trips or when you need a quick top-up. They deliver 50 to 350 kilowatts depending on the charger and your vehicle's capability, which translates to 200 miles of range in 20 to 30 minutes for most electric vehicles. However, charging speed slows as your battery fills—the last 20 percent takes longer than the first 80 percent. DC fast charging also costs more per mile of range added than Level 2.

Level 2 chargers are slower but cheaper and better for shopping trips or longer stays. A Level 2 charger adds 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, so a two-hour shopping trip might add 50 to 60 miles. Level 2 is also gentler on your battery's long-term health because it charges at a lower rate. If you are parked for more than an hour, Level 2 is usually the better choice financially and mechanically.

What to bring and what to expect when you arrive

Bring your own charging cable or adapter. Walmart chargers do not provide cables at most locations—you need either the cable that came with your vehicle or a portable adapter that fits your car's inlet. For DC fast charging, your vehicle's onboard system handles the connection; for Level 2, you plug in manually using your cable.

Arrive with the correct app already downloaded and your account set up. If you show up without the Electrify America app and the charger is an Electrify America station, you will have to read it, create an account, and add payment information before you can start charging. This takes 10 to 15 minutes and defeats the purpose of a quick charge. read the major networks—Electrify America, ChargePoint, and Volta—before you need them.

Expect to wait if the charger is busy. Walmart parking lots are crowded, and chargers can be occupied. Check the third-party app before you drive to the store to see if chargers are available. If all chargers are in use, you may have to wait 20 to 45 minutes depending on how much the car ahead of you needs to charge.

Pricing and membership options for Walmart EV charging

Electrify America, which runs most Walmart DC fast chargers, charges per minute of charging time. Rates vary by location and time of day, typically ranging from 35 to 50 cents per minute, though this varies. You can pay per session without a membership, or join Electrify America's membership program for a monthly fee that lowers the per-minute rate. The membership is worth it only if you fast-charge frequently—once or twice a week or more.

Level 2 chargers have different pricing models. ChargePoint charges per hour or per kilowatt-hour depending on the location. Volta offers free charging at some locations in exchange for watching an advertisement. Some older Level 2 networks are free with no strings attached, but these are becoming less common. Always check the app or the charger's display before you plug in.

Walmart itself does not set the prices—the charger operator does. Prices can change, and they vary between Walmart locations. Use the operator's app to see the current rate at your specific store before you commit to charging there.

Troubleshooting common problems at Walmart chargers

If a charger will not start, first check that you have the correct app for that charger's operator. Scan the QR code on the charger or look at the signage to confirm which network it belongs to. If you have the right app, make sure your account is set up and your payment method is valid. Some chargers require you to start the session through the app before you plug in; others require you to plug in first and then start through the app. The charger's display or the app will tell you the correct order.

If the charger is broken or not responding, report it through the operator's app. Electrify America, ChargePoint, and other networks have a "report an issue" button in their apps. You can also call the operator's customer service number, which is usually listed on the charger itself. Walmart does not repair the chargers—the operator does—so you need to contact them, not Walmart customer service.

If you are charged unexpectedly or the price seems wrong, check your account history in the app. The app shows every session, how long you charged, and what you were charged. If the amount does not match the posted rate, contact the operator's customer service with a screenshot of your session details and the posted rate. Most operators will refund overcharges if you can show the discrepancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all Walmart stores have EV chargers?

No. Walmart has chargers at hundreds of locations, but not all stores have them. Check the Walmart store locator or a third-party app like PlugShare to see if your nearest store has chargers. Walmart is expanding its charging network, but coverage varies by region.

Can I charge while I shop at Walmart?

Yes, Level 2 chargers are designed for this. A two-hour shopping trip will add 50 to 60 miles of range. DC fast chargers are faster but usually not necessary for a shopping trip unless your battery is very low. Level 2 is also cheaper per mile of range added.

What if I have a Tesla?

Teslas built after 2021 come with an adapter for non-Tesla chargers. Older Teslas have a proprietary connector and cannot use most public chargers without an adapter. Check your vehicle's manual or contact Tesla to confirm whether you can use the charger at your Walmart location.

Is Walmart EV charging cheaper than charging at home?

No. Home charging costs roughly one-third to one-half what public charging costs per kilowatt-hour. Public chargers, including Walmart's, are meant for convenience when you are away from home, not for regular daily charging. If you charge at home most nights, public chargers should be occasional backup.

What happens if I leave my car plugged in after charging is done?

Most chargers will stop charging when your battery reaches full, but you may be charged an idle fee if you leave the car connected too long after charging stops. Check the operator's app for idle fee details. It is best to unplug as soon as charging finishes to avoid extra charges.