RV Depreciation Calculator:
Protect Your Investment
Understand how your RV loses value over time with our comprehensive depreciation calculator. Get accurate projections by RV type, learn proven strategies to minimize value loss, and make informed decisions about when to buy, sell, or upgrade your RV.
Advanced RV Depreciation Calculator
Get accurate depreciation projections based on your RV's specific characteristics and market conditions.
Depreciation Timeline
| Year | Estimated Value | Annual Depreciation | Total Loss | Retention % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New | $85,000 | $0 | $0 | 100% |
| Year 1 | $69,700 | $15,300 | $15,300 | 82% |
| Year 2 | $61,336 | $8,364 | $23,664 | 72% |
| Year 3 | $55,202 | $6,134 | $29,798 | 65% |
| Year 4 | $50,786 | $4,416 | $34,214 | 60% |
| Year 5 | $46,723 | $4,063 | $38,277 | 55% |
| Year 6 | $44,387 | $2,336 | $40,613 | 52% |
| Year 7 | $42,168 | $2,219 | $42,832 | 50% |
| Year 8 | $40,059 | $2,108 | $44,941 | 47% |
| Year 9 | $38,056 | $2,003 | $46,944 | 45% |
| Year 10 | $36,154 | $1,903 | $48,846 | 43% |
Current Estimated Value
Depreciation Factors
5-Year Projection
💡 Pro Tip
The steepest depreciation occurs in the first 2-3 years. Consider buying 2-3 year old RVs to avoid the worst value loss!
Smart Timing: When to Buy vs Sell
🛒 Best Times to Buy
Fall/Winter (Oct-Feb)
Dealers eager to clear inventory, motivated sellers, potential savings of 10-20%
RV Shows & Expos
Special pricing, trade-in incentives, and manufacturer rebates available
Economic Downturns
Luxury items like RVs see price reductions during economic uncertainty
Model Year End
Previous year models discounted to make room for new inventory
💰 Best Times to Sell
Spring (Mar-May)
Peak demand as buyers prepare for summer camping season
Before Major Repairs
Avoid costly repairs that may not increase value proportionally
After 2-3 Years
Avoid steepest depreciation while still having modern features
Before Technology Changes
Sell before major industry upgrades make your RV seem outdated
RV Depreciation FAQ
Which RV type depreciates the least?
Travel trailers and Class A diesel motorhomes typically depreciate the least. Travel trailers avoid engine depreciation entirely, while diesel engines in Class A units last longer than gas engines, maintaining value better.
How much does an RV depreciate in the first year?
Most RVs depreciate 15-25% in the first year, with Class A gas motorhomes seeing the highest depreciation (22%) and Class A diesel the lowest (15%). This varies by brand, condition, and market conditions.
Do luxury RV brands hold value better?
Yes, luxury brands like Airstream, Prevost, and Newmar typically retain 90-95% of their value compared to 80-85% for mainstream brands. Their superior construction and brand prestige justify higher resale values.
When does RV depreciation slow down?
Depreciation typically slows significantly after year 5, dropping to 5-7% annually. Most RVs reach a 'floor value' of 15-25% of their original price, below which they rarely fall if maintained.
Does RV mileage matter for depreciation?
Mileage only affects motorhomes, not towable RVs. For motorhomes, high mileage (50,000+ miles) can reduce value by 20-40%, while low mileage (under 15,000 miles) helps maintain value.
How does condition affect RV value?
Condition has a major impact. Excellent condition RVs retain full value, while poor condition units may only be worth 65% of typical market value. Regular maintenance and care are crucial.
Should I buy new or used to minimize depreciation?
Buying 2-3 year old RVs often provides the best value. You avoid the steepest initial depreciation while still getting modern features and potentially remaining warranty coverage.
Can modifications affect RV resale value?
Most modifications either don't add value or can actually decrease it by limiting the buyer pool. Some practical upgrades like solar or lithium batteries may add value, but keep original parts when possible.
Protect Your RV Investment
Understanding RV depreciation is crucial for making smart financial decisions. While all RVs lose value over time, strategic buying, proper maintenance, and smart timing can significantly reduce your losses.
Remember that depreciation is just one factor in RV ownership costs. The experiences, memories, and lifestyle benefits often far outweigh the financial depreciation, especially when you take steps to minimize value loss.
Take action: Use our calculator to understand your RV's value trajectory, implement our retention strategies, and time your buying and selling decisions strategically. Knowledge is your best defense against depreciation!