A year and a half into a global pandemic, most of us are itching to get out on the road and start traveling again. Of course, we also want to do so safely. You can also find great discounts at places like Heartland RV Dealers. In fact, some models only cost a few hundred dollars a month!
As a result, RV sales have soared and show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. A new RV or a used RV offers the perfect blend of freedom, comfort, and social distancing, allowing you to travel anywhere you’re willing to drive.
The question is: How much does an RV cost? How can you fit this exciting purchase into your budget? And what factors affect how much you’ll pay?
We’ll answer these questions, complete guide, and more, so keep reading!
Table of Contents
How Much Is an RV? (The Short Answer)
If you’re looking for a short, succinct answer, here it is: A new RV can cost anywhere between $10,000 on up to $250,000 or more.
Of course, this is a huge price range that probably isn’t very helpful if you’re ready to start shopping. Let’s break it down a little further:
- $10,000-$30,000 for a moderately-appointed travel trailer
- $30,000-$100,000 for a fifth-wheel-style RV
- $100,000+ for a full-size motorhome
The exact price you’ll pay depends on whether it’s a new RV or a used RV. The number of bells and whistles (extra bedrooms, gourmet kitchen, fireplace, etc.) also makes a big difference in the final price.
Different Types & Classes of RVs
If you visit an RV dealer, you’ll find RVs in every shape, style, and size. Some RVs are self-powered with their own engines, while others need to be hitched to and towed by a separate vehicle.
The two main categories are:
- Motorcoaches (Class A, Class B, Class C)
- Towable rigs (fifth wheels, travel trailers, truck campers)
Let’s take a closer look at the main categories and classes, along with what you might expect to pay for each.
Class A Motorhome
A Class A motorhome is the big daddy of the RV world, often the go-to choice for celebrities on tour. A small standard model starts at around $100,000 and goes up from there depending on the size, brand, and features.
These large rigs are shaped like buses and can range anywhere from 25 to 50 feet in length. They feel the most like a “home” on the road and usually sleep between 4-8 people comfortably. They often feature one or more bedrooms, a full bathroom, a kitchen, and a living area, with plenty of space and storage too.
Class A motorhomes are great for overall comfort, but they’re terrible for fuel-efficiency. Most models get between 6-10 miles per gallon, so factor that into your budget if you’re planning any long-distance trips.
Class B Motorhome
Also called camper vans or sleeper vans, Class B motorhomes are the smallest type of motorized RV. They’re about the size of a large cargo van, which means you won’t have the same spacious interior as a Class A or fifth-wheel motorhome.
Still, they’re an economical choice for aspiring RV owners, starting at around $40,000. Most come complete with a toilet, kitchenette, and small seating area — perfect for a weekend getaway. They’re also much more fuel-efficient than their larger counterparts.
Class C Motorhome
Strangely, a Class C motorhome lies in the middle of a Class A and Class B. The cost is right in the middle too, ranging anywhere from $50,000 to $125,000.
They’re built into a standard truck chassis, which makes them easier to drive and maneuver than the bus-style Class As. They also get better fuel efficiency. Class C RVs offer many of the same features and amenities as Class As, making them a popular and affordable option for longer trips.
Fifth Wheels
If you already have a powerful pickup truck (or you plan to buy one), you might consider a fifth-wheel trailer for your RV purchase. You’ll need a special in-bed hitch for your truck, but this setup allows much more maneuverability than a self-motorized RV.
Fifth wheels range from bare-bones basic to luxurious living spaces with gourmet kitchens and fireplaces. Small functional models may start around $15,000. But if you want all the bells and whistles associated with luxury brands, you may need to fork out $100,000 or more.
Of course, you can also find great discounts at places like Heartland RV Dealers. In fact, some models only cost a few hundred dollars a month!
Factors That Affect RV Cost
So then, what sets a $20,000 RV apart from a $200,000 RV?
For starters, there’s the brand you choose. Well-known manufacturers like Jayco, Thor, and Keystone command higher prices than smaller brands like Heartland or Starcraft. Like other purchases, you’ll pay more for a brand-name RV.
The age of the RV is also a major factor. A brand-new RV will fetch a higher price than an older model. If you’re hoping to save a few bucks, look for a lightly-used model that’s a few years old and you can shave thousands off the purchase price.
What kind of floorplan do you want? A small camper with bunk beds will understandably be cheaper than an RV with a master bedroom and king-sized bed. The size of your toilet/shower and kitchen features also have a big impact on RV cost.
Finally, let’s talk about the bells and whistles. Most prices you’ll see quoted are for baseline models with any “extras” added on. The more fancy features you add, the more you’ll pay.
For example, do you want a built-in flatscreen TV? A fireplace? A full-sized fridge or washing machine? Luxury flooring or decor? For each addition, the RV price will go up.
Find an RV Dealer Near You
So, what do you think? Is 2021 your year to buy a new RV or a used RV?
If you’ve been wondering how to buy an RV, hopefully this post has shed some light on RV cost and other important considerations. All that’s left to do is visit an RV dealer in your area and start your search!
We’ve discussed RV price factors, so what’s next? Keep browsing our site for more great articles about RVs, cars, and everything in between.
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