Wall-Mounted vs Pedestal EV Chargers: What’s Right for Your EV?

So you’ve got the EV. Nice. Now comes the question no one warned you about: Where’s the charger actually going to go?

Garage wall? Driveway pole? Somewhere that doesn’t involve tripping over a cord every night?

At Integra Electrical, we’ve installed EV chargers all over Iowa, and we’ve seen how the setup you choose can make life easier… or way more annoying. A little planning now can save you years of frustration later.

This article compares the two most common installation types: wall-mounted and pedestal-mounted. We’ll keep it honest, simple, and budget-aware, with a few laughs along the way.

Before the end of this article, you’ll know:

• The pros and cons of choosing a wall-mounted EV charger
• The pros and cons of going with a pedestal-style install
• What to consider in the final decision based on your layout, lifestyle, and budget

Wall-Mounted EV Chargers: Pros & Cons

Wall-mounted chargers are the go-to option for most homeowners, especially if you park in the garage and your electrical panel isn’t too far away. The charger gets installed directly on a wall (usually inside the garage), keeping things out of the way and easy to access.

No concrete work. No weird cord paths. Just plug in and go.

The Pros of Wall-Mounted EV Chargers

• Lower installation cost. Wall-mount setups are usually the most affordable option. In Iowa, most installs we see land between $500 and $1,500, depending on how close the panel is and whether any upgrades are needed.
  
  
• No trenching required. Since it’s mounted right to the wall, everything stays surface-level. No digging up your yard or cutting into concrete.
  
  
• Clean and out of the way. If you park in the same spot every day, this setup feels seamless. The charger’s right where you need it,  no extra clutter.

The Cons of Wall-Mounted EV Chargers

• Only works well if you park close. If your car doesn’t always line up with the charger, you’ll be stretching cables or getting creative.
  
  
• Outdoor use is trickier. Mounting it on an exterior wall can work, but it may expose the charger to rain, snow, or damage, especially if it's near where kids play or trash cans get dragged.
  
  
• No flexibility. Once it’s installed, it stays put. If you change how you use your garage, or add a second EV, you might outgrow it.

Still deciding what kind of charger fits your life? Check out our article, Level 1 vs Level 2 EV Chargers: Which One Is Right for You?, for help choosing the right speed, setup, and budget.

Pedestal EV Chargers: Pros & Cons

If wall-mounted chargers are the go-to option, pedestal chargers are the upgrade. These are freestanding units installed on a metal post, usually out in the driveway, at the edge of a parking area, or next to a detached garage.

They give you more flexibility, but also come with a higher price tag.

Pros of Pedestal EV Chargers

• You can put it almost anywhere. Pedestal chargers are ideal if you park outside or have a detached garage. You’re not limited by wall space, so you can position the charger exactly where it makes the most sense.
  
  
• Better for multi-car households. Got two EVs? Guests who plug in? A pedestal charger makes it easier to share access without rearranging the driveway every night.
  
  
• Looks cleaner in some setups. If your garage is tight or packed with storage, a freestanding charger can keep things tidier than running cords across walls or ceilings.

Cons of Pedestal EV Chargers

• Installation costs more. Because pedestal chargers usually require trenching, conduit, and more labor, the install price can jump to $1,500 to $4,000, sometimes higher if your panel is far or buried underground.
  
  
• It’s out in the open. Snowplows, lawnmowers, and kids on scooters now have something new to accidentally destroy. It’s sturdy, but not invincible.
  
  
• Takes up driveway space. Unlike a wall-mounted setup, a pedestal is physically in the way (even if just a little). Placement matters, and it’s not something you’ll want to move later.

Which One is Right for you?

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about chargers. It’s about your space, your habits, and how much you’re willing to deal with every time you plug in.  Here’s the short version:

If you’re a homeowner who parks in the garage, has a panel nearby, and just wants a simple, low-cost setup, go wall-mounted. It’s clean, convenient, and usually the most budget-friendly option for personal use.

If you park in the driveway, share charging with other drivers, or need a more flexible setup, especially for rental properties or small businesses, a pedestal might be the smarter move. It’s easier to access, easier to share, and designed to handle more foot and vehicle traffic.

Next Steps for Installing Your EV Charger

Not sure which install makes the most sense for your setup? Our EV Charger Calculator breaks down the real costs behind wall-mounted vs pedestal installs, so you can plan ahead with confidence and avoid surprise expenses later.

Frequently Asked Question about EV Charger Placement

Can I Install a wall-mounted EV charger outside?

Yes, but it needs to be weather-rated and installed in a way that protects both the unit and the cord from exposure. We don’t recommend it unless the location is covered or protected,  pedestal installs are usually better for outdoor setups.

Is trenching always required for a pedestal charger?

Not always, but it’s very common. If the panel is far from the install location, we usually need to trench and run conduit underground. That’s a big reason pedestal installs tend to cost more.

Do pedestal chargers change faster than wall-mounted ones?

Nope, charging speed comes down to the charger type (Level 1 or Level 2), not how it’s mounted. Both mounting styles can handle the same amperage and speeds, as long as the wiring and panel support it.