How Much Does an RV Cost? RV Prices Explained

How Much Does an RV Cost?

The cost of an RV depends on a handful of variations such as size, brand and features. Prices can range from just under $10,000 to well over $500,000 for luxury motorhomes from manufacturers such as Tiffin or Newmar.

However, there are more costs to an RV than just the purchase price. There are additional items you need to make your trips go smoothly, maintain your vehicle and stay safe while traveling.

• Registration and taxes: Just like when you purchase a new vehicle, you must pay for registration and taxes when you buy an RV. These prices vary from state to state, but you can estimates online on the DMV website with their RV Calculator.

• Fuel: The fuel costs are likely to be more than when you fill up your car. RVs are much bigger and have a lot of weight to carry. Many motorhomes run on diesel, which can raise the cost of fuel as well.

• RV insurance: RV insurance is almost like a combination of home and car insurance. Because it is a vehicle, it needs certain aspects of car insurance for accidents, but it is also a home while your camping so you would also need aspects of home insurance. Optional coverage for your RV insurance can include pet injuries, vacation liability, roadside assistance and more. The cost depends on the type of RV and if you want to cover personal belongings in your RV.

• : Some RVs include a factory-installed hitch, so this won't necessarily always be a purchase you need. But many times you will need to upgrade the hitch depending on your truck's towing needs or for a better towing experience. Fifth wheel hitches are often much more expensive than travel trailer hitches because they are larger and mounted to the bed of the truck. Prices range in the $300s to over $1,000 depending on the type. There is also a cost to install.

• Camping: A majority of campgrounds require a nightly fee to stay on-site, much like a hotel. They can range anywhere from $10-$120 a night depending on location and amenities.

• Maintenance: There is general maintenance and upkeep that is needed each year for your RV. Depending on where you live, you may need to winterize and de-winterize your RV each fall and spring. It is hard to determine a price as it can change year-to-year or even month-to-month, but having a repair fund is always a good idea.

• Storage: If you're not able to store your RV on your own property, you will have to pay for storage costs when your RV is not in use.

After considering all these costs, you can now better understand what you can afford before jumping into the RV lifestyle.

To help make your shopping experience easier, we gathered a list of popular RVs at different price points to help you find your dream RV that fits your budget.

Pop-up campers are an excellent place to start when getting into the RV lifestyle. They are compact and easy to tow, so trucks and most SUVs or minivans can haul these campers. Pop-ups can fold down when not in use because of the vinyl walls. They can come with either a hardtop or tent top.

This pop-up camper is extremely budget-friendly and has everything you need for camping. The Rockwood tent camper has a two-burner free-standing range to make tasty home-cooked meals. The beds are thermostatically controlled heated mattresses to keep you warm on chilly nights.

And on those hot, summer days, you will be able to relax in the shade under the exterior awning.

Start shopping for the Rockwood Freedom Series 1640LTD here.

The Flagstaff pop-up camper is the perfect step up from a tent. It comes standard with a quilted-top bed heated mattress, keeping campers warm in chilly weather. It also has an inside/outdoor two-burner stove for whipping up tasty meals and a solar prep on the frame for those who prefer to camp off the grid. The Flagstaff has an electric water pump, antifreeze inlet bypass and a 25 AMP converter with a built in battery charger.

The Apex Nano is a larger hybrid camper as well with two queen beds on either side. It offers a microwave, kitchen space and LED lighting for bright and efficient lighting. This camper also features pass-through storage for extra space as well.

Travel trailers offer more space and options than pop-up campers. Travel trailers often offer full kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms as well as a common area. They have the option of having extra sleep space with bunks or fold-out sofas. Travel trailers have hard-sides, so staying warm in colder months is much easier.

The Independence Trail travel trailer features a small rear wet bath to freshen up in privacy. This is a great small RV for families with a 54" x 74" bed and bunks in the back. It offers a booth dinette and small kitchenette as well. The Independence Trail also comes with an Omni-Directional TV antenna, AM/FM/BT stereo with four speakers and LED interior and exterior lighting.

If you are ready to start shopping, click here.

The Grand Design Imagine XLS travel trailer offers a lot of great features to make your camping trip easy, comfortable and fun. It has a queen-size murphy bed, so it can be put away during the day and there is enough room for entertaining. The back of the Imagine XLS has double over double bunks to fit more people comfortably. The kitchen offers a double door refrigerator, microwave, three-burner range with oven and a booth dinette that has enough space for the whole family to enjoy meals together.

Ready to find the Grand Design Imagine for you? Shop available units now.

The North Trail travel trailer offers exterior speakers for campers who want to play their favorite music while enjoying the outdoors. The power awning has multi-colored LED lights to keep the party going even after the sun goes down. At the end of the day, get a great night sleep in the queen-sized, foam mattress.

Think the North Trail is right for you? Browse our available units here.

Fifth wheels are similar to travel trailers as they are towed behind a vehicle. The way it is hitched is a little more stable than a travel trailer and has less swaying because it is towed in the bed of a truck. Although they tend to be larger than travel trailers, it is easier to drive while towing a fifth wheel.

The Avalanche fifth wheel has a master suite and a full bathroom in the front of the RV. It also features a free-standing dining table, large kitchen with lots of countertop space, theater seating, fireplace and a pop-up TV. Step outside and enjoy the 17' awning to relax in the shade and protected from the elements.

The North Point fifth wheel features include full master bath with a large linen closest and the private bedroom has a comfortable queen bed with lots of storage space with the closest and dresser. The kitchen has an island for additional counter space, pantry and a free-standing dinette. At the end of the day, unwind in comfortable theatre recliners or the three-seat, fold-out sofa by the fireplace in the living area.

Shop North Point RVs we have available here.

The VanLeigh Vilano is a luxury fifth wheel perfect for all the glampers out there. The common area features a sofa bed with end tables on either side and a theater sofa, great for relaxing and spending time with friends and family or used as an extra bed. When it’s time for dinner, enjoy the large island for prep and a residential fridge to keep your ingredients and leftovers organized. There is a king-sized bed big enough to stretch out and feel well-rested for the next day. The Vilano offers a washer/dryer prep for those longer camping trips and a large bathroom with a stand up shower, double sinks and closest space.

Browse our available Vilano fifth wheels here.

Class Cs are normally built on a truck or van chassis with an overhead cab area, which is used for sleeping or extra storage space. They usually fall in between a Class A and Class B with size and features.

The Coachmen Freelander, built on a Ford chassis, is a Class C motorhome prefect for couples. There is a private bedroom with a queen sized bed in the rear of the RV with closest storage on either side of the bed. There is also a small kitchen, living and dining area. The kitchen has a double basin sink and a three-burner stovetop.

Interested in the Freelander? Shop here.

The Sunseeker is a Class C motorhome built on a Ford chassis. With LED TVs in the living and bedroom areas, as well as an optional exterior TV, this RV is perfect for the family who loves to tailgate or keep up on their favorite shows while on the road. Outside has an 18' awning that is perfect for relaxing at all hours of the day. The kitchen features a fridge, three-burner stove, double basin sink and pantry space, so cooking full meals on the road for family and friends is easy.

Does the Sunseeker seem like a great choice for you? Shop available units here.

The Winnebago Ekko is luxury Class C motorhome. It has a color touchscreen systems monitor panel, satellite system ready, amplified digital HDTV antenna and more. The front cab area offers lots of convenient features like the Apple CarPlay Android Auto, Bluetooth and a rear camera display.

A Class B campervan is the smallest version of motorhomes. It is easier to drive, and park and get closeup experiences of hard-to-reach places when going off the grid. The Class B is built on van chassis from Mercedes Benz, Ford and Dodge but still has a small kitchen, sleeping space, storage and bathroom.

This Class B motorhome has a 59" x 71" rear sofa bed to end the day in. There is also a pop-up top that can comfortably sleep two people. The Solis has a flexible solar option with one panel with 220-watt system, allowing boondocking and camping in isolated and unique locations.

The Plateau is built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 Van Chassis and uses diesel fuel. This luxury Class B offers a power sofa and memory foam sofa cushions for extra comfort. It has recessed LED lighting under cabinets and along the roof and dimming LED lights. Sit back and watch your favorite movies on the 24” LED TV on a swivel mount. The shower features a handheld showerhead to make washing up a little more convenient.

The Class A motorhomes offer plenty of storage space as well as a spacious interior. They are the largest of the motorhomes and usually built on a commercial bus chassis. These RVs tend to have more luxury features of home and larger bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens.

The Sportscoach SRS is a popular motorhome choice because of all the amenities offered. It has two slides for maximum interior space. The private bedroom in the rear of the RV has a king size bed, overhead cabinets, wardrobe space, washer, dryer and LED TV. The private full bathroom has a closet with hamper, stand-up shower and spacious vanity area.

The Allegro RED 340 Class A motorhome has three large slide-outs providing a spacious interior to easily entertain and host friends and family. The living room has a large super sofa with theater seating and a flip and fold sofa bed. This provides extra sleeping space at night. The dining space has the option of either a booth dinette or a dinette with computer workspace for those who work remotely while on camping trips.

Ready to start shopping for an Allegro Red 340? Click here.

The Newmar Dutch Star is the ultimate RV when it comes to luxury and style. The passenger seat in the front has a work station so you can easily work while on the road. Catch up on your beauty sleep with the plush pillow top mattress. The Dutch Star also offers prep for two-piece washer/dryer set for your convenience. There is tile floor throughout the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living area. It comes with decorative wall art and a quilted bedspread with an accent pillow, so you can get save time decorating and spend more time camping.

There is a perfect RV out there for everyone, you just have to find it. Now that you have a general overview of what comes with your price range you can start shopping here.

Learn more about towables and motorhomes to find the best RV for you.

How Much Does an RV Cost: New vs Used

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So, you’re looking to buy an RV. We don’t blame you! After all, they’re one of the best ways to explore the world in style. Plus, there are tons of benefits that RV travel can provide.

Before you start living the RV lifestyle, you’ll want to do some research on the RV you plan to buy. One of the most important questions to ask is, ‘How much does an RV cost?’

Generally, an RV cost to buy ranges between $35,000 to $300,000. This price can change depending on various factors like RV class, included features and other costs.

Keep reading to learn about RV costs, what influences them and other essential factors to consider when buying an RV!

How Much Does an RV Cost: What to Consider When Buying an RV

Cost Different Between RV Types & Classes

One aspect that can influence the price of an RV is its type. There are several types of RVs out there! The most common ones you’ll see are classes A, B and C RVs.

The main difference between these three classes is RV size. Class A RVs are distinct because their features are similar to a bus. Understandably, class A RVs tend to be pretty large! As a result, class A RVs tend to cost more than smaller RV classes, ranging from $200,000 to $300,000.

Next is class B RVs. These RVs appear similar to a van. The body of a class B motorhome can vary based on the manufacturer. Because class B RVs are smaller than class A, they cost less, with prices ranging from $100,000 to $200,000.

Last but not least is the class C RV. These models are easy to drive even and are a favorite of Cruise America’s RV rental customers! New Class C RVs costs are lower than A and B, ranging from $75,000 to $125,000.

Sales Tax, Maintenance & Other Long-Term Costs

When budgeting your RV purchase, something to remember is that there are costs outside of buying the RV itself.

Let’s say you decide to buy a used class C RV from Cruise America for $40,000. The base used RV cost is $40,000, but there are additional fees you are required to pay. Some of these fees include state and local vehicle taxes as well as vehicle registration fees. The cost of these fees and the requirements you must meet depend on where you live.

Other costs that come with buying an RV include maintenance. It’s important to upkeep your RV to ensure it runs as it should! Depending on who you buy your RV from, you will receive a limited warranty. For example, Cruise America offers a limited warranty on certain parts of the RV if they stop working. These warranties differ depending on the seller, but they usually last for a certain amount of time before expiring.

Cruise With Comfort When Buying a Cruise America RV!

If you’re looking for an affordable answer to the question, ‘How much does an RV cost?’ then Cruise America is perfect for you.

By buying an RV from Cruise America, you can save money without having to sacrifice vehicle quality. Cruise America’s used RVs are all fully refurbished and run like new. Plus, you can try out Cruise America’s unique rent-to-buy option! This way, you can experience the joy of camping in a Cruise America RV before making your purchase.

The RV lifestyle is waiting for you! Contact Cruise America today to discover excellent deals when buying a used RV.

How Much Does an RV Cost? RV Prices Explained

So you’ve decided to buy an RV. Maybe you’re tired of flights and hotels on vacation, or perhaps you and the family want to get out into nature more. Maybe you think RV prices will be more reasonable than other travel costs. But before you hit the road, you probably have one big question – how much does an RV cost?

The answer can vary greatly, meaning you should pick the best one for your needs and budget. Let’s review the different types of RVs and what they typically cost.

Different Types and Classes of RVs

How much an RV costs has a great deal to do with the RV type. Manufacturers in the RV industry divide rigs into two broad categories – drivable and towable. Within each group, there are several classes, each of which comes with different features and costs.

With so many floorplans and models, you’re bound to find your dream RV. Let’s take a look at the different types of RVs on the market.

Class A RVs

Class A RVs are the largest drivable RVs – what you might think of as a “typical” motorhome, with a bus-like profile. They offer extra storage space and amenities but also come with the highest cost.

Owners may compare them to small, mobile apartments in terms of space and living conditions. These types of RVs can come with all the amenities. Including a king-sized bed, large bathroom, air conditioning, plenty of kitchen space, and more.

Class C RVs

Next, class Cs are a bit smaller with fewer features and a smaller price tag. These RVs have a truck-style driving area, usually with storage or sleeping space over the cab. There are also so-called “super C” RVs, which combine some of the class C’s design features with the space and power of a class A. Think of class C motorhomes as a mix between A and B.

Class B RVs

Class B motorhomes are the smallest of the drivable RVs. With a profile much closer to a large van, these RVs tend to have the least space and fewest features, meaning a lower cost.

However, there are some pretty expensive models out there as well. Class Bs built on Mercedes Benz frames will run you just as much as Class As. Because of its small size, this type of RV is great for first-time campers as you can stay safe on the road.

Fifth Wheels

Large towable RVs, known as fifth wheels, are generally very nice and feature-filled, like the class A RVs, but they’re usually a little more affordable. Because they don’t have drivable motors, fifth wheels are ideal for luxury camping on a budget.

Additionally, many folks that are considering the full time RV lifestyle like 5th wheels since they have plenty of storage space. Just like Class As, these RVs tend to have amenities like air conditioning, king and queen-sized beds, a large living area, full kitchens, and even extra beds for guests or kids.

Some floor plans can have up to six slide outs, meaning more space for the whole family. Families love fifth-wheel RVs because of the extra sleeping space and many even have two bathrooms.

Fifth wheels also require special equipment mounted in the bed of your truck so you can tow it, and you’ll need a vehicle with enough towing capacity. There are many options for diversity in style and price in 5th wheels. They range from standard trailers with amenities similar to class A or C RVs down to pop-up campers that operate as large, towable tents.

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers are great for first time RVers. If you already have a truck or SUV, you might already be able to tow a small travel trailer already. These RV types connect the bumper of your vehicle. They have a lower profile than fifth wheels since they don’t have a front cap.

Additionally, since this is another RV type that doesn’t have an engine, you can find them on the lower end of the RV price scale. Don’t feel limited by its size though, many families and couples love the space and freedom their travel trailer gives them.

What Other Factors Influence RV Prices Other Than Size?

There are several reasons that RV you are looking at is so expensive. Here are the top 3 factors that influence RV price:

Manufacturer Reputation

Knowing the quality of workmanship a manufacturer puts into their product will not only affect the price but may also give you a longer-lasting and dependable product. Do your homework by searching RV forums and Facebook groups where customers talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly sides of each manufacturer’s models.

Availability

If an RV model has a good reputation, chances are it will sell better than those that don’t. This can be a double negative for new buyers, as the dealership may be able to charge more for the popular model and there are fewer of them available for purchase. This may be somewhat negated by shopping for that model during non-peak buying seasons.

Floorplan

Some floorplans are in high demand, which can make them more expensive. They may have an extra half bath or a kitchen island or extra bed space, giving them coveted status, which may drive the asking price a bit higher and make them less available on the dealer’s lot.

How Much Does an RV Cost? Average New RV Prices

As you can imagine, there’s significant diversity in pricing based on style and features. Do plenty of research when deciding the option that best fits your budget with the amenities you value most. Here’s a little information to get you started.

New Class A Average RV Prices

As we mentioned, class A RVs are the biggest and often the most attractive drivable RVs. These RVs – similar to a bus in profile – start between $50,000 and $150,000 new but can easily stretch into the high six figures. It’s not unheard of for a luxury class A to break a million – or more!

New Fifth Wheel Average RV Prices

Fifth wheels, the largest of the towable RVs, can also cost a pretty penny. Buying a new fifth wheel will cost between $35,000 and $60,000 for a basic model and up to $150,000 or more for high-end luxury fifth wheels.

Don’t forget you’ll also need special equipment (and a vehicle with adequate towing capacity) to tow it, which adds additional cost.

New Class C Average RV Prices

Class C RVs are a bit more affordable than their class A cousins. Thanks in part to their generally smaller size and more common parts, you can find a new class C motorhome for $50,000 to $100,000, depending on the particulars. New super C RVs generally cost $100,000 to $150,000 new.

New Class B Average RV Prices

A Class B motorhome – also known as a camper or conversion van – can also be pricey depending on the features you choose. They generally start in the $80,000-$100,000 range and can stretch up to $150,000 or more.

New Travel Trailer Average RV Prices

Travel Trailers are a more affordable towable RV option. Standard travel trailers and toy haulers generally cost around $25,000-$35,000 new, while you can buy pop-up campers for as little as $15,000 new.

Should You Consider Buying Used?

If high prices are keeping you out of the RV loop, you may want to look into purchasing a used RV. Not only will the purchase price be cheaper, but you will not incur a huge drop in the appraisal value, as you do when driving a new vehicle off the lot.

Many RV owners buy slightly used rigs with lower sticker prices because many of the “kinks” have been worked out by the first owner. New RVs have their fair share of issues that get repaired under warranty, and these 2nd owners assume they will benefit from lower purchase prices and fewer repair fixes.

One thing to consider, however, if you need to take out a loan to buy a used RV, is the age of the vehicle. Even though it may be in great shape, many lenders will not loan money on vehicles that are 10 years old or more. Some might lend you a small amount on those vehicles, but the percentage rate will be much higher and the time to pay off the loan will be much shorter. On these much older vehicles it is usually a good practice to pay cash.

Used RV Cost Averages By Type

Like any vehicle, expect significant price differences between new and used RVs within each of these categories. A new RV loses approximately 20% of its value as soon as it drives off the lot, meaning you may find price discrepancies between relatively recent models and the newest ones.

When buying used, consider the RV’s age, mileage, and condition when figuring out how much an RV costs. As with many things in life, you often get what you pay for – meaning it’s crucial to have an inspection done if you’re buying from a private seller or have any concerns.

Used Class A Average RV Prices

Much like new Class As, the cost of a used one will depend significantly on the size and features. Still, expect to pay at least $80,000-$120,000 for a used model from the last five or ten years. Both private sellers and dealerships also list RVs 15-25 years old in the $20,000-$40,000 range.

Used Fifth Wheel Average RV Prices

Used fifth wheel RV prices also vary based on style. Based on data showing that used fifth wheels also lose about 20% of their value in their first year, you’ll see price tags ranging from around $30,000 to $120,000 for premium models.

Used Class C Average RV Prices

Used class C RVs will run you $35,000-$70,000 for models from more recent years. However, older models from private sellers can sometimes often list in the $20,000 range. As with any used RV purchase, we warrant caution with significantly older or heavily-used RVs.

Used Class B Average RV Prices

Used Class B RVs can be among the most affordable if their smaller size and fewer features meet your needs. You can find older models for as little as $10,000-$15,000! However, for a more recent used model with average features, prices start around $30,000 and can still stretch into the six figures for luxury models!

Used Travel Trailer Average RV Prices

Considering the usual 20% depreciation, used travel trailers and toy haulers will cost $20,000-$30,000, while a used pop-up camper will run $10,000-$15,000.

Additional RV Ownership Costs

With ownership comes responsibility, and a portion of your money may go not only to monthly loan payments but other expenses as well. When shopping for your own RV, you need to consider some additional expenses.

Taxes

You will have sales tax to pay upon purchase, although many financing institutions will allow you to roll those taxes into the loan if you choose. These are a direct result of the RV price you pay and where you live.

Insurance

Newer RVs can be extremely expensive. It makes sense to have good overall coverage on your insurance policy in case of repair or replacement.

Operating Expenses

Your new recreational vehicle will not get great gas mileage. In fact, you can probably count on motorhomes getting 7 to 14 mpg and towables might decrease your truck mileage by a good mount. So budget for fuel, propane to use in your heater, campground fees, oil changes, and set aside a chunk of money for repairs, because a moving “house” will need consistent maintenance and repairs.

Accessories

RV needs tons of accessories. You may decide that your RV needs leveling blocks, window awnings, new LED lights, or maybe you’ll upgrade that kitchen faucet. Keep these things in mind when planning your budget and if looking at used vehicles.

Storage

If you plan to use your RV in the summer or for a few weekend trips a year, and you don’t have room to store it at your home (or your HOA doesn’t allow it on-site), you will need to put your rig in storage.

Uncovered storage varies from state to state, but generally speaking, it might run you $50 to $75 per month, and covered storage or storage with electricity could run in the $100 to $300 per month range. Think about how often you will be utilizing this new purchase and where it will spend its “days off,” then you can start shopping, knowing that you have a plan.

RV Travel Is Well Worth The Investment

As you can see, the question of how much does an RV cost can have many answers. Take a close look at your needs and budget before purchasing, and figure out what’s best for you. RV travel is well worth the investment. If you go to RV shows, wait for end-of-year deals, and properly negotiate, you can be in your own RV before you know it!