Cost Of Buying A Car (2025)

Depreciation is often the single largest cost of car ownership. A car's value "drops like a rock" as soon as it leaves the lot. AAA estimates that depreciation accounts for a significant portion of the total annual ownership cost, which hit an average of in 2025/2026. Budgeting Guidelines

: The average payment for a new car in late 2025 was $767 , while used cars averaged $537 . cost of buying a car

: Routine care (oil changes, tires) and repairs cost roughly 10 cents per mile or $900 per year on average. 3. The "Hidden" Cost: Depreciation Depreciation is often the single largest cost of