A used hybrid might be a good way to test the waters. I am not sure that electric cars are any cheaper on the fuel front to use. In Alaska I don't think there are many charging stations, but one thing is at most work places they do have outdoor plugs for engine heaters, (they get turned off in the summer in most places), so recharging while at work is possible and free. Otherwise it is plug it in at home to charge, and that could put a serious dent in the electric bill over a month. So the hybrid choice will let you know a little bit about the operating cost before going full on electric.
I would like a plug in, as here we do have engine warmer posts in the car parks everywhere (including my apartment building), plus at least for now, a lot of the shopping centers offer free charging points. The home ones definitely won't charge it quickly though.
If there are a lot of plug-ins then free power is always more fun. I wish more businesses had plug ins for the winter months and keeping the car engines warm, but pretty much only some for the employees. Sounds like a winning combo for where you are at with all the free plugins available.