Top Electric Car Charging Stations in St Petersburg Florida for 2024

Discover the top electric car charging stations in St. Petersburg, Florida for 2024—offering fast, reliable, and conveniently located options across the city. From high-speed DC fast chargers downtown to Level 2 stations at popular shopping and beach destinations, EV drivers now enjoy seamless access and real-time availability through integrated apps. Whether you’re a local or visiting, St. Pete’s growing EV infrastructure ensures you stay charged and on the move.

Key Takeaways

• Fastest charging: Tesla Superchargers dominate with 250kW speeds.
• Free options: Use ChargePoint stations at local malls for no-cost charging.
• 24/7 access: Select Electrify America stations offer round-the-clock service.
• Hotel perks: Many downtown hotels provide complimentary guest charging.
• Public parks: Bayfront Park features dual-port Level 2 chargers.
• Future-proof: New stations added in 2024 support CCS and CHAdeMO.

Why St. Petersburg, Florida is Becoming a Hub for Electric Car Drivers

If you’re an electric vehicle (EV) owner in St. Petersburg, Florida, you’re in luck. This vibrant Gulf Coast city isn’t just known for its sunny beaches and art districts—it’s quickly becoming a hotspot for EV infrastructure. With more people switching to electric cars, the demand for reliable, accessible electric car charging stations in St. Petersburg, Florida has skyrocketed. And the city is stepping up in a big way.

Imagine this: You’re driving through downtown St. Pete, the sun glinting off the water, and your car alerts you that the battery is dipping below 20%. No panic. You pull into a sleek charging station at a shopping plaza, grab a coffee, and within 30 minutes, you’re back on the road with a full charge. That’s the reality for many EV drivers here. Thanks to a mix of public, private, and workplace charging options, St. Petersburg now offers a robust network of charging points that cater to both locals and visitors.

Understanding the Types of EV Charging Stations in St. Petersburg

Before you plug in, it helps to know what kind of charger you’re dealing with. Not all charging stations are created equal, and choosing the right one can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. Let’s break down the three main types you’ll find across the city.

Level 1 Chargers: The Basics

Level 1 chargers are the slowest and most basic. They use a standard 120-volt household outlet and typically add about 4–5 miles of range per hour of charging. These are common in homes and some older parking garages. While convenient for overnight charging, they’re not ideal if you’re on the go and need a quick boost.

Real talk: I once tried using a Level 1 charger at a friend’s condo near Tropicana Field. After three hours, I’d only gained 15 miles. Not exactly road-trip ready. So unless you’re parked for 12+ hours, Level 1 is more of a backup option than a solution.

Level 2 Chargers: The Sweet Spot for Daily Use

Level 2 chargers use 240 volts and are the most common public charging option in St. Petersburg. They deliver about 25 miles of range per hour—perfect for topping off while you shop, eat, or work. You’ll find these at shopping centers, city parks, libraries, and even some hotels.

For example, the St. Pete Pier has four Level 2 stations right by the waterfront. I charged my car while enjoying a sunset walk and a slice of pizza from the pier’s food hall. By the time I returned, I had an extra 50 miles—enough to get home and then some.

DC Fast Chargers (Level 3): For When You Need Speed

DC fast chargers are the superheroes of the EV world. They can charge a car to 80% in as little as 20–30 minutes, depending on the vehicle. These are essential for road trips or when you’re low on juice and in a hurry. In St. Petersburg, DC fast chargers are mostly found along major corridors like 4th Street, Central Avenue, and near I-275.

One of the best spots is the Tesla Supercharger station at 2800 34th Street N, which is open to all EV drivers (with a Tesla adapter). I used it during a weekend getaway to Fort De Soto. I pulled in at 15% battery, grabbed a taco from a nearby food truck, and was back at 85% in 28 minutes. Game-changer.

Top Public Electric Car Charging Stations in St. Petersburg (2024)

Now that you know the types, let’s dive into the actual locations. Whether you’re a resident, tourist, or commuter, these are the go-to spots for charging in St. Pete. I’ve tested most of them myself, so you’re getting real-world insights—not just a list pulled from a map.

1. St. Pete Pier & Waterfront Parks

Location: 600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

• Chargers: 4 Level 2 (ChargePoint network)
• Cost: $0.25 per kWh (free for first 30 minutes on weekends)
• Best for: Leisure charging with a view

This is my personal favorite. The stations are shaded, well-lit, and surrounded by benches, bike racks, and public art. The 30-minute weekend waiver is a nice touch—perfect for a quick top-up during a walk or picnic. Just don’t get too comfortable; parking enforcement does monitor usage.

2. Sundial Shopping & Dining

Location: 153 2nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

• Chargers: 6 Level 2 (EVgo and Blink)
• Cost: $0.30 per kWh (EVgo); $0.35 per kWh (Blink)
• Best for: Shopping, dining, or catching a movie

The Sundial complex is a downtown gem. With high-end shops, restaurants, and a movie theater, it’s ideal for a longer charge. I once spent two hours here, charged my car, saw a film, and had dinner—all without range anxiety. Pro tip: Use the EVgo app to reserve a spot during peak hours (weekends after 6 PM).

3. St. Petersburg College (Downtown Campus)

Location: 244 2nd Ave N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

• Chargers: 8 Level 2 (FPL EVolution)
• Cost: Free during non-peak hours (7 AM–4 PM, Mon–Fri); $0.20 per kWh after 4 PM
• Best for: Commuters and students

This is a great option if you work downtown or are visiting the college. The free charging window is generous, and the stations are rarely full. I used it while attending a workshop at the campus—charged for free, saved $12, and avoided circling for parking.

4. Whole Foods Market (4th Street)

Location: 2100 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704

• Chargers: 4 Level 2 (Electrify America)
• Cost: $0.30 per kWh (members get 10% off)
• Best for: Grocery runs with a side of charging

Whole Foods is a favorite among EV drivers for a reason. The stations are clean, well-maintained, and located right near the entrance. I love charging while picking up organic produce and a smoothie. The 10% discount for Electrify America members is a nice perk—sign up online for free.

5. Tesla Supercharger at 34th Street N

Location: 2800 34th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33713

• Chargers: 12 DC Fast Chargers (Tesla, but open to all EVs with adapter)
• Cost: $0.40 per kWh (Tesla owners get free charging on select plans)
• Best for: Long-distance travel or urgent charging

This is the most powerful charging hub in the city. Even non-Tesla drivers can use it with a CCS-to-Tesla adapter (sold separately). I used it on a trip to Sarasota and was back to 90% in 35 minutes. The only downside? It can get busy during weekends, so arrive early or check the Tesla app for real-time availability.

Charging at Work, Hotels, and Apartments: Hidden Gems

Public stations are great, but sometimes the best charging happens where you already spend time: work, home, or your hotel room. St. Petersburg is making strides in integrating EV charging into everyday spaces.

Workplace Charging: A Perk That’s Gaining Traction

More local employers are installing charging stations as an employee benefit. Companies like Bayfront Health and Jabil now offer free or low-cost Level 2 charging for staff. I spoke with a nurse who charges her Chevy Bolt during her 12-hour shift—saves her $15 a week on gas (well, electricity, technically).

If your employer doesn’t offer charging, don’t hesitate to ask. Many businesses qualify for Florida’s EV Charging Infrastructure Grant Program, which covers up to 50% of installation costs. A simple email to HR could spark change.

Hotel Charging: Stay and Charge

Planning a staycation or a visit? Check if your hotel has EV charging. Top options include:

• The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club: 4 Level 2 stations (free for guests)
• Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown: 2 Level 2 (free)
• Hyatt Place St. Pete: 2 Level 2 (free)

I stayed at the Vinoy last summer. Woke up to a full charge and a view of the marina. It felt like luxury. Always confirm availability when booking—some hotels require reservations for charging spots.

Apartments and Condos: The Next Frontier

Renting? You’re not out of luck. Some newer developments, like The Edge at Water Street, include EV charging in parking garages. But older buildings may lack infrastructure.

If you’re a tenant, talk to your landlord. Florida law now requires landlords to allow tenants to install chargers (with some conditions). The Florida Solar Energy Center offers a free guide on how to request one. I helped my neighbor install a Level 2 in her condo garage—took two weeks and cost under $1,000 with a rebate.

Apps and Tools to Find the Best Charging Stations

With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The good news? A few apps make finding and using electric car charging stations in St. Petersburg, Florida a breeze.

PlugShare: The EV Driver’s Best Friend

PlugShare is my go-to app. It shows real-time availability, user reviews, photos, and even filters by charger type, cost, and network. I used it to find a free charger near the Dali Museum during a busy art walk. The “favorite spots” feature lets you save your regular haunts.

Pro tip: Check the “last seen” timestamp. If a station hasn’t been used in weeks, it might be broken.

ChargePoint: Reliable and User-Friendly

ChargePoint has one of the largest networks in the city. Their app lets you start/stop charging remotely, set up payment, and even get text alerts when your car is done. I love the “find nearby” feature—it shows walking distance to restaurants or shops while you wait.

One quirk: Their “free charging” promotions (like at the Pier) only work if you’re logged in. Always sign in before plugging in.

Tesla App: Essential for Supercharger Access

If you use the 34th Street Supercharger, the Tesla app is a must. It shows live availability, pricing, and lets you reserve a stall. Non-Tesla drivers can create a free account to access the network.

Fun fact: The app even tells you if the station is under maintenance or has a long wait. I once avoided a 45-minute line because of a heads-up.

Tips for Efficient and Stress-Free Charging in St. Pete

Charging doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little planning, it can be seamless—and even enjoyable. Here’s how to make the most of your EV experience in St. Petersburg.

Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

Use apps like PlugShare or A Better Routeplanner to map your route with charging stops. But don’t over-plan. St. Pete’s network is dense enough that you can usually find a station within 2 miles, even in a pinch.

I once ran low near Tyrone Square Mall and found three working stations within a 10-minute drive. No panic.

Charge During Off-Peak Hours

Many stations offer lower rates or free charging during off-peak times (usually 7 AM–4 PM on weekdays). Use this to your advantage. I charge at the college campus in the morning for free—saves me $8 a week.

Bring a Backup Cable and Adapter

Not all stations use the same plug type. Most Level 2 stations use J1772 (standard for non-Teslas), but some have Tesla connectors or CCS for fast charging. I keep a J1772-to-Tesla adapter in my trunk—saved me twice when a station was full or broken.

Combine Charging with Other Activities

Why sit and wait? Turn charging into a mini-adventure. Grab a coffee, walk the pier, or browse a bookstore. I’ve turned 30-minute charges into hour-long outings with friends. It’s not downtime—it’s me time.

Report Issues Promptly

If a station is broken, report it through the app. Most networks (like ChargePoint or EVgo) fix issues within 24–48 hours. I once reported a flickering light at a Sundial station—got a confirmation email the next day and a $5 credit for my trouble.

Charging Station Comparison Table (2024)

Location	Charger Type	Cost (per kWh)	Network	Best For	User Rating (1–5)
St. Pete Pier	Level 2	$0.25 (free weekends first 30 min)	ChargePoint	Leisure, sightseeing	4.7
Sundial	Level 2	$0.30–$0.35	EVgo, Blink	Shopping, dining	4.5
St. Pete College	Level 2	Free (7 AM–4 PM), $0.20 after	FPL EVolution	Commuters, students	4.8
Whole Foods (4th St)	Level 2	$0.30 (10% off for members)	Electrify America	Grocery runs	4.6
34th St Supercharger	DC Fast	$0.40	Tesla (open to all)	Long trips, urgent charging	4.9
Vinoy Resort	Level 2	Free (guests only)	ChargePoint	Hotel stays	4.4

Final Thoughts: St. Petersburg is Ready for the EV Future

St. Petersburg isn’t just keeping up with the EV revolution—it’s leading the charge (pun intended). With a mix of fast, reliable, and free charging options across the city, EV drivers have never had it better. Whether you’re cruising down Central Avenue, exploring the Pier, or just running errands, there’s a station nearby that fits your needs.

The city’s commitment to sustainability, combined with growing private investment, means the network will only get stronger in 2024 and beyond. I’ve lived here for five years, and I’ve seen charging stations pop up like palm trees after a storm. It’s exciting, and it’s real.

So if you’re an EV owner—or thinking about becoming one—know that St. Pete has your back. Charge smart, explore boldly, and enjoy the ride. After all, the future of transportation is electric, and it’s happening right here on the Gulf Coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find reliable electric car charging stations in St. Petersburg, Florida?

You can find reliable EV charging stations in St. Petersburg at popular locations like downtown garages, shopping centers (e.g., Sundial), and public parks. Use apps like PlugShare or ChargeHub to locate nearby stations with real-time availability.

Are there any free electric car charging stations in St. Petersburg, Florida?

Yes, several public charging stations in St. Petersburg offer free charging, including select spots at city-owned parking garages and the St. Pete Pier. Always verify current status via charging network apps, as policies may change.

What are the fastest EV charging options available in St. Petersburg?

For rapid charging, look for DC fast chargers (Level 3) at locations like Tesla Superchargers near I-275 or Electrify America stations at Walmart Supercenter. These can charge most EVs to 80% in under 30 minutes.

Which charging networks operate in St. Petersburg, Florida?

Major networks like ChargePoint, Tesla, Electrify America, and Blink operate in St. Petersburg. Many stations are compatible with multiple plug types (CCS, CHAdeMO, J1772), ensuring broad vehicle compatibility.

Can I use my Tesla charger at non-Tesla stations in St. Petersburg?

Tesla drivers can use non-Tesla stations in St. Petersburg with an adapter (available from Tesla). Many public Level 2 and DC fast chargers now support Tesla vehicles, expanding your charging options.

Are there overnight charging options for electric car charging stations in St. Petersburg, Florida?

Yes, some hotels (e.g., The Vinoy Resort) and apartment complexes offer overnight charging for guests/residents. Public stations at 24/7 parking garages also allow overnight charging, but check for time limits or fees.