How much does an RV cost?
How much does an RV cost?
$20,000 – $100,000 average towable RV price
$50,000 – $600,000 average RV motorhome price
Average RV cost
An RV costs $20,000 to $100,000 on average for a towable trailer. Motorhome prices average $50,000 to $600,000, but some luxury RVs cost up to $2,000,000. These prices do not include sales tax, dealer fees, or registration. The cost of an RV depends mainly on the size, type, and features.
| RV type | Average price* |
|---|---|
| Towable RV | $20,000 – $100,000 |
| RV motorhome | $50,000 – $600,000 |
*RV price before taxes, dealer fees, and registration.
Alternatively, the average cost to rent an RV is $50 to $350+ per day or $400 to $2,000 per week, depending on the type and demand.
You may need a CDL license to drive certain types and sizes of RVs. The specific requirements and weight limits vary by state.
RV motorhome price by type
Motorhomes are RVs you can drive, and they come in a wide range of sizes, styles, and prices. Most motorhomes fall into Class A, B, or C. These motorized RVs are essentially houses on wheels, and you can find basic and high-end models and features within each Class.
| Motorhome type | Average price* | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Class A Tour bus |
$100,000 – $600,000 |
|
| Class B Camper van |
$80,000 – $200,000 |
|
| Class C All-in-one |
$50,000 – $200,000 |
|
| Super C Luxury Class C |
$60,000 – $600,000 |
|
*Before taxes, dealer fees, and registration.
Class A motorhome prices
Class A motorhomes cost $100,000 to $600,000 on average, but prices range from $60,000 up to $2,000,000+, depending on the brand and features. These tour-bus-style RVs are the largest RV type and offer the most amenities, but they use the most gas and are more challenging to drive and park.
You may need a CDL license to drive a Class A motorhome, depending on where you live and the weight of the RV.
Class B motorhome prices
Class B motorhome prices average $80,000 to $200,000. These camper vans are the smallest RV class, sleep one or two people comfortably, and may or may not have a bathroom. Class B RVs are the easiest and safest type to drive, with a van's stability and seat belts for multiple passengers.
Class B camper vans have fewer floor plan options than other classes, but they have the best resale value and fuel economy, with some models reaching 20 miles per gallon.
Class C motorhome prices
Class C motorhomes prices range from $50,000 to $200,000 on average and are bigger than a Class B but smaller than a Class A. These easy-to-drive RVs offer a variety of floor plans. Most have living and dining areas and one or two beds, which is ideal for smaller families.
Some Class C models have slide-out features or awnings for extra space while camping, but they may not fit at small campsites.
Super C RVs are a relatively new RV type and cost $60,000 to $600,000. They offer more luxury features and better towing capability than a standard Class C RV.
Travel trailer & towable RV prices
Towable RVs cost less than motorhomes since they're smaller and have fewer components. Travel trailers offer the least living space but also the ease of detaching them from your vehicle to explore a city or attend an event. Fifth wheel trailers are often as roomy as a motorhome but need a powerful towing vehicle.
| Towable RV type | Average price* | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Travel trailer | $20,000 – $50,000 |
|
| 5th wheel | $30,000 – $100,000 |
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*Price does not include sales tax, dealer fees, or registration.
Travel trailer prices
Travel trailer prices range from $20,000 to $50,000, the cheapest and most popular non-motorized option. Travel trailers typically have one or two beds and a small kitchenette. These RVs are smaller and shorter than other types, which makes them an easy fit at most campsites.
Many travel trailers are small and light enough for an SUV or small pickup truck to tow but still have multiple slide-out features to create more living space at your campsite.
Travel trailers come in several styles and shapes to suit almost anyone's needs. Popular styles include collapsible pop-up campers, teardrop campers, and toy haulers.
5th wheel prices
A 5th wheel costs $30,000 to $100,000 and is a towable RV often as big as a Class B or C motorhome, fitting up to 6 people comfortably. Because of their size, 5th wheels require a more powerful tow truck than other trailers, but they connect to the truck bed for better drivability.
Consider a 5th wheel trailer for longer trips as they have larger water and waste tanks than other towable RVs.
RV cost factors
Size, type, and features are the biggest factors in determining the cost of an RV. Other factors include:
Equipment & finish quality: As with regular cars and home appliances, the build and finish quality vary by RV brand and model. Higher quality materials and components often mean higher prices, though not always.
Manufacturing process: Some manufacturers put the RV through a pre-delivery inspection (PDI) at a separate facility for a final once-over before sending it to the dealership. PDIs sometimes increase the cost.
Hitch & vehicle modifications: If your towing vehicle is not already equipped, you may need extra components like a trailer hitch and towing mirrors. You may also need a hitch if you plan to tow your vehicle behind your RV motorhome.
Demand: You’re more likely to get a better deal by purchasing an RV in the off season, typically between late fall to early winter.
Trade-in value: If you're trading in an old RV, this lowers the new RV cost and may also reduce the sales tax, depending on the state. Some dealerships also take regular vehicles as trade-ins.
Financing costs:
RV loan interest rates vary from 6% to 20%+, depending on the lender and your credit history. Term lengths range from 10 to 20 years. A higher down payment can lower your monthly bill and overall cost.
Check with your financial advisor or local tax consultant if you finance your RV, as the loan interest is often tax deductible.
Where you buy:
Boutique dealers have higher prices and fewer options but offer a more personalized buyer-dealer experience. Well-known dealers have a wider variety to choose from and lower priced RVs, but their customer service is often lacking.
Buying an RV manufactured close by can save thousands on transportation costs. Consider traveling to the manufacturer's city and driving the RV home if you don't live near one.
More expensive doesn't always mean higher quality. Some high-volume RV manufacturers get bulk discounts on materials and pass some of that savings to the customer.
New vs. used RV cost
Buying a used RV costs $25,000 to $85,000+, depending on the type, age, condition, and location. Going for a pre-owned RV may allow you to buy one that's larger or has more amenities than a new RV at the same price, but used vehicles often come with higher maintenance costs.
RVs depreciate like regular cars. Buying a lightly used RV with a well-documented maintenance history can lessen the shock of the 20% to 30% immediate depreciation when you drive it off the lot. Still, a brand-new RV comes with a better warranty and peace of mind that it won't break down anytime soon.
When buying a new RV, consider last year's models. Dealers often discount new RVs left over from the previous year to make room for newer stock. Many previous-year models have all the same features with slightly different detailing.
RV insurance
RV insurance costs $500 to $1,500 per year on average, depending on the RV type, location, and coverage level. An RV motorhome functions as both a vehicle and a living space, so you'll want to make sure you’re protected financially if damage occurs while on the road or while parked.
Most states require RVs to have at least liability insurance, with the required minimum amounts varying by state. If you finance the RV, most lenders require additional comprehensive and collision coverage.
Standard RV insurance policies cover damage while on the road, and you need additional "vacation liability" insurance to cover damage or injuries that may occur while you’re camping.
For towable RVs, the towing vehicle's liability insurance extends to the trailer, but the trailer will need its own comprehensive and collision insurance.
Even if you own your RV, consider comprehensive and collision insurance. Liability-only insurance covers damage or injuries caused to others, but it does not cover damage to the RV itself.
Costs of ownership
As with any vehicle, several ongoing expenses come with owning an RV. Additionally, most RVs have home-like amenities, which adds even more to the continuing costs compared to owning a standard car:
Taxes & registration: RV prices usually don't include sales tax, or registration. These fees are mandatory for both motorhomes and towable RVs. Check with the local DMV to confirm the registration costs in your state.
Fuel: RVs are costly to run, with gas mileage averaging 5 to 10 miles per gallon. Additionally, some motorhomes run on diesel, which usually costs more than gas. Towable RVs don't require fuel, but you'll refill the tank on the towing vehicle more often.
Campsite rental: RV campground parking ranges from $20 to $60+ per night. Some campgrounds sell annual passes, which is worth considering if you plan to stay more than 30 nights out of the year.
Internet: Many campsites and RV parks offer free Wi-Fi, but the free service may not be sufficient if you are working remotely.
Supplies: Depending on your location and plans, you may need various items while camping, such as firewood, propane, food, kitchen tools, linens, and toiletries. This will increase the cost of RV life.
RV storage: If you're not a full-timer, RV storage costs as little as $75 per month to as much as $400 per month, depending on the location, RV size, and storage type. Basic uncovered outdoor storage costs the least, while covered or indoor storage costs more.
Maintenance & repairs: Routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotation, periodic tire replacement, AC, brake, and alignment service add to your operating costs but ensure a long life for your RV. RVs equipped with appliances and plumbing incur additional maintenance costs over time.
Buying vs. renting an RV
When deciding whether to rent or buy an RV, the best choice for you depends on your budget and how much you plan to use it. Buying an RV is often more cost effective in the long run, but renting first can help you decide on the size, type, and features you want.
| Factor | Buying an RV | Renting an RV |
|---|---|---|
| Average cost | $50,000 – $600,000 (motorhome) $20,000 – $100,000 (towable RV) | $125 – $350 per day (motorhome) $50 – $200 per day (towable RV) |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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RV FAQs
What does RV stand for?
RV stands for "recreational vehicle" and refers to both self-propelled motorhomes and towable trailers.
When is the best time to buy an RV?
The best time to buy an RV is from October through January. RV dealers offer more discounts and incentives during these off-season months when the demand is lower. Additionally, when the new year strikes, many dealers discount further to sell last year's inventory and make space for the new models.
Can you buy land and live in an RV on it?
You can buy land and live in an RV on the land in some cases. Research your desired location and options before buying an RV. Some areas allow it if you are connected to public utilities, while others have zoning laws and regulations that restrict or prevent such usage.
Do you need a special license to drive an RV?
Depending on the state, you may need a special license to drive some types of RVs. Driving an RV—especially a big model like a Class A motorhome—requires a different set of skills beyond those you need for driving a regular car or truck. Requiring special licensing helps ensure safer roads.
How long do RVs last?
RVs last 10 to 20 years or 200,000 to 300,000 miles on average. Diesel-powered RVs tend to last longer than gas-powered RVs. However, the lifespan of any RV varies depending on the type, quality, how much you use it, and how well you maintain it.
Getting quotes from RV dealers
Follow these guidelines to get the best deal on an RV without sacrificing quality:
Determine what type and size of RV you want to buy. Consider renting a few different models first to test the waters before committing to such a big purchase.
Research pricing online before reaching out to local RV dealers for quotes.
Visit several local RV dealers to compare options and prices. Visit the dealer just prior to an RV show, as some may discount the price for you if it saves them the extra show expenses.
Check out RV dealer reviews on sites like HomeGuide and Google. Also, read reviews of the brands and models you're interested in to make sure there are no known issues that could change your mind.
Read comments and opinions on RV-related discussion forums.
Get quotes for similar RV models from different RV brands.
Compare financing options—including interest rates, loan term lengths, and down payment requirements—between the RV dealer and your bank.
Ask if they are running any discounts or promotions, and if there are any perks or extra benefits to buying from them vs. another dealer.
Questions to ask an RV dealer
Ask the following questions to help you find the right RV for you and the best RV dealer to buy from:
What brand and type of RV do you recommend for me, and why?
What features come standard with the RV, and which costs extra?
What add-on options do you offer, and how much do they cost?
Do you have any unadvertised sales or discounts?
Does buying from your dealership come with any extra perks or benefits?
How does your service department work?
Do you have last year's model for sale at a lower price, and what are the differences?
Do you take regular vehicle trade-ins? What is my trade-in worth?
What does the warranty cover and how long is it for?
Do you sell any used RVs? If so, do you have a record of their service history?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.